Summarize

Anyone knowledgeable about bakkie matters in this part of the world will tell you that the Toyota Hilux is an icon among bakkies. 

What’s more the number of variants since its appearance is around 21.

On test is the Hilux 2.8GD-6 Double Cab Raider 4x4 that nestles near the upper end of the growing range. Powered by the latest 2.8GD-6 diesel engine it delivers 420Nm between 1400-2600rpm via a slick-changing 6-speed manual transmission.  In fact, its high torque  outputs from so low down the rev-range proved extremely useful when overtaking in higher gears.

In fact the GD stands for ‘Global Diesel’, the hallmark name for the latest engine series that offers good fuel efficiency and advanced thermal combustion technology. The 2.8GD-6 is furthermore ably assisted via common rail, variable nozzle turbocharger, chain drive and intercooler offering responsive acceleration from around a low 1600rpm.  In performance terms, it’s no slouch either with another – this one is also quite a bit quicker than before too. highlight being the perceived silence in the cabin of engine noise.

There’s not a hell of a lot different – LED daytime headlamps, new wheels on this model and a few more variants pretty well cover it, but Hilux has a cabin well stacked with advanced features including full-colour touch screen with reverse camera, 4.2” TFT multi-information display screen, Bluetooth, cruise control, automatic climate control, steering wheel controls, electronic 4x4 switchgear, Hill Assist and Downhill Assist Control, auto lights and a full suite of safety kit ranging from seven airbags to VSC and A-TRAC among others.

Ride quality is good by almost any standards, while off-road it also excels, ably assisted by electronic aids such as Downhill Assist Control.

Handling is good and somewhat better than its predecessor, which was rather rigid and hard. Steering feel instead was positive and quick.

QUICK TEST – Toyota Hilux 2.8GD-6 Double Cab Raider 4x4

Engine: 130kW 420Nm 2755cc turbodiesel I4

Drive: 6-speed manual 4x4

TESTED:

0-100km/h: 10.25 sec

0-160km/h: 29.92 sec

0-400m: 17.1 sec @ 128km/h

80-120km/h: 7.94ec

CLAIMED

VMax: 180km/h

Fuel: 9.01/100km

CO2: 199g/km

Price: R570 700

Rated 85%