It’s been a long frustrating wait for HiLux fans but the new flagship GR Sport has now
arrived.
The HiLux GR Sport is the latest Toyota to get the Gazoo Racing treatment, joining the
LandCruiser 300, Yaris, Yaris Cross, CH-R, Supra and GR86.
Available exclusively in dual cab format, the new HiLux GR Sport uses an upgraded
version of the standard 2.8-litre turbocharged diesel engine, but with revised turbo-
supercharging and fuel-injection increasing power from 150 to 165kW and torque from 500
to 550Nm making it the most powerful diesel HiLux ever offered by Toyota in Australia.
The six-speed automatic transmission has also been recalibrated to optimise the GR
Sport’s increased engine outputs.
The GR Sport builds on Gazoo Racing’s Dakar rallying experience, with a wider track,
greater approach angle, higher ground clearance, re-tuned suspension and bigger disc
brakes.
There was input from Toyota Australia engineering which is recognised as a global centre
of excellence for Toyota 4WD vehicles.
Combined with sportier tuning for the automatic transmission and an expanded lock-up
area, the HiLux GR Sport provides added confidence for accelerating and overtaking in all
conditions, enhanced by optimal control through paddle shifters on the steering wheel.
GR Sport gains the same track width increase as the HiLux Rogue, growing by 135mm
at the front and 155mm at the rear, along with a 15mm increase in ride
height, compared with the core HiLux range.
The wider stance gives it a strong, stable and muscular image with prominent satin-black
fenders flares that integrate seamlessly with the bumper.
A strong upright grille with GR mesh maximises the cooling area while exterior body parts
have been sculpted in the wind tunnel for aerodynamic efficiency.
The HiLux GR Sport rides on 17-inch alloy wheels with all-terrain tyres while its off-road
credentials are further reinforced by the addition of a skid plate, rock rails and red rear
recovery points.
The fitment of 265/65R17 Bridgestone Dueler all-terrain tyres enhance the HiLux GR
Sport’s on-road stance and off-road performance even further.
The GR Sport’s suspension is augmented further with the fitment of special KYB
monotube shock absorbers tuned specifically for the vehicle, as well as the removal of
the rear stabiliser bar providing increased suspension travel.
The suspension upgrades have not compromised on the HiLux’s full 3500kg braked
towing capacity, that is supported by the standard fitment of a genuine towbar with
towball and seven-pin trailer wiring harness.
Upgrades continue inside the cabin with seats upholstered in a blend of leather-
accented and perforated suede trim, with silver accents for the perforated suede and
grey stitching. Red seatbelts provide sporty accents in line with the GR design theme.
The steering wheel features a leather-accented wrap with red centre mark, GR logo and
paddle shifters, with a unique visual treatment also applied to the shift lever.
Aluminium pedals complement the new ‘Technical Mesh’ trim applied to the dashboard
and doors, while the audio experience is improved with the fitment of a nine-speaker
JBL premium audio system.
The HiLux GR Sport will be offered with Glacier White, Frosted White, Silver Sky
(Stunning Silver from late 2023), Eclipse Black and Feverish Red finishes, with Glacier
White, Frosted White and Feverish Red able to be paired with a two-tone black roof.
Toyota HiLux GR Sport is priced at $73,990 plus on-road costs.
The GR Sport offers all the active safety technologies found on the HiLux Rogue, and
comes with a five-year/unlimited kilometre Toyota Warranty Advantage.
This is extended to seven years on engine and driveline, with capped-price servicing for
the first three years/60,000km (whichever comes first) and each six-month/10,000km
service costing $290.
