Toyota Hilux

In a thrilling announcement on July 28, 2023, Toyota’s Australian subsidiary has pulled the covers off a remarkable addition to their lineup, the “Hilux GR Sport.” While this name may ring a bell for some Japanese enthusiasts, the Australian version of the Hilux GR Sport boasts entirely unique specifications and a character all its own.

A Pickup with a Rich Heritage

The Hilux, renowned for its long history, traces its roots back to 1968. Over the decades, it has evolved into a global icon, sold in approximately 180 countries and regions. The current iteration, the 8th generation model, returned to the Japanese market in September 2017 after a hiatus of approximately 13 years. Measuring in at 5,340 mm in length, 1,855 mm in width, and 1,800 mm in height, the Hilux carries a substantial presence. This places it in the same league as Toyota’s North American offerings, the Tundra and Tacoma.

On the flip side, the “GR Sport” moniker is synonymous with TOYOTA GAZOO Racing’s sports-oriented models. Alongside the Hilux GR Sport, the GR series includes the thrilling “GR Yaris” and offers GR parts for standard-grade vehicles.

Aussie Exclusive: The Highest Specification Hilux

Toyota’s Australian arm has positioned the forthcoming Hilux GR Sport as the “highest specification Hilux” yet. A bold claim indeed, backed by an array of enhancements that set it apart from its counterparts in Japan. Compared to the standard Hilux, it packs the most potent diesel engine ever found in a Hilux, an upgraded suspension, and an all-new design.

With dimensions measuring 5,320 mm in length, 2,020 mm in width, 1,880 mm in height, and a 3,085 mm wheelbase, this Hilux GR Sport significantly expands its overall footprint. It rides on a “wide tread” platform, elevating the stance by 15 mm and widening the track width by 135 mm at the front and 155 mm at the rear compared to the regular Hilux series. The satin black overfenders blend seamlessly into the bumpers, lending the exterior a muscular appearance. The front bumper receives an approach angle boost, further enhancing its off-road capabilities.

Inside, the cabin boasts a leather steering wheel featuring paddle shifters, adorned with a striking red center stripe and the GR logo. The front sports seats combine leather and suede, accentuated by red seat belts, aluminum pedals, a novel “technical mesh” dashboard, and a GR Sport shift lever, exuding a sporty aura.

Under the hood, the powertrain boasts an impressive maximum output of approximately 224 horsepower and a peak torque of 550 Nm, thanks to its 8-liter turbo diesel engine. The transmission is a 6-speed automatic. To further augment its performance, Toyota engineers have fine-tuned the front coils and rear leaf springs, incorporated KYB monotube shock absorbers with a larger piston diameter, and removed the rear sway bar to bolster grip on uneven terrain. Not to be overlooked, the upgraded braking system now features a 338 mm x 28 mm 4-piston fixed caliper at the front and a 312 mm x 18 mm single-piston floating caliper at the rear, delivering exceptional stopping power.

For those who relish choices, the Hilux GR Sport offers five body colors: Glacier White, Frosted White, Stunning Silver, Eclipse Black, and Feverish Red. Among these, Glacier White, Frosted White, and Feverish Red can be paired with a black roof.

The Hilux GR Sport comes with a price tag of 73,990 Australian dollars, approximately equivalent to 7,030,000 yen. Sean Hanley, Vice President of Sales, Marketing, and Franchise Operations at Toyota Australia, expressed his excitement about the new Hilux GR Sport, saying, “The all-new Hilux GR Sport takes the performance of the Hilux series to a new level. With input from Australian engineers and designers, we have made comprehensive enhancements to both design and interior, making the popular Australian Hilux even more attractive. Australians love powerful, high-performance pickups, and the Hilux GR Sport meets that need.”

In Conclusion

The introduction of the Hilux GR Sport marks an exciting chapter for Toyota enthusiasts in Australia, offering a unique blend of power, style, and performance that is bound to resonate with pickup truck enthusiasts Down Under. With its distinctive design and impressive specifications, the Hilux GR Sport is poised to make waves in the Australian automotive market, continuing the legacy of the iconic Hilux name.

Tokoname City, Aichi Prefecture – May 20 and 21, 2023, marked the eagerly anticipated “FIELDSTYLE JAPAN 2023,” an outdoor event held at the prestigious AICHI SKY EXPO. Showcasing a wide array of outdoor-related products, the event witnessed the spotlight shining brightly on the renowned company, Carstay, as they proudly presented their latest masterpiece – a custom camper built on the robust foundation of the Toyota Hilux.

Carstay, a company renowned for its expertise in campers, has been at the forefront of revolutionizing outdoor adventures. Their well-established application, “Carstay,” enables enthusiasts to reserve campervans and overnight spots, while their “Mobi Lab” service offers a unique workshop experience for those seeking to customize their own van into a luxurious camper. Now, under their new camper brand “SAny,” Carstay takes personalization to a whole new level.

At the FIELDSTYLE JAPAN 2023 event, Carstay’s exquisite creation, the “SAny” Toyota Hilux camper, turned heads and captured hearts. Designed with a strong emphasis on harmonizing with nature and embracing the essence of living in the great outdoors, this camper offered an enticing blend of functionality and aesthetic appeal.

The interior and cargo area of the Hilux camper are adorned with a soothing beige tone, exuding a calm and welcoming atmosphere. The well-thought-out facilities include a spacious table, comfortable seating for up to four people, a sink, and a stove, all carefully positioned to ensure optimal convenience during outdoor excursions.

Ensuring that adventurers have ample storage space, the Hilux camper comes equipped with various storage compartments thoughtfully integrated throughout the vehicle. Additionally, wooden shelves near the ceiling add a touch of elegance and contribute to creating a cozy and inviting living space.

The uniqueness of Carstay’s “SAny” brand lies in its ability to cater to individual preferences. With a diverse range of custom options available, campers can mix and match their favorite renovations from a selection of predefined menus. This approach provides campers with the freedom to craft their ideal mobile sanctuary, aligning perfectly with their tastes and preferences.

Beyond the impressive customization, Carstay’s renovation plan extends to the exterior, accentuating the Hilux’s rugged charm while embracing a nature-inspired “earth color” theme, symbolizing the bond between van life and the splendor of the natural world.

The Toyota Hilux, a revered pickup truck known for its remarkable reliability and outstanding driving performance, has been a best-seller since its inception in 1968. Although not as commonly seen on Japanese roads, the Hilux enjoys immense popularity in the North American market, owing to its sturdy build and versatility. The current 8th generation model entered the Japanese market in September 2017, making waves with its unrivaled capabilities.

Carstay’s presentation at FIELDSTYLE JAPAN 2023 left visitors and outdoor enthusiasts awestruck, revealing a harmonious fusion of functionality, style, and the allure of the great outdoors. Whether for a weekend getaway or an extended exploration, the custom Toyota Hilux camper by Carstay promises to redefine the way adventurers experience and appreciate the beauty of nature. Those captivated by the spirit of adventure can now embark on a journey to embrace the wonders of the world in a camper tailored precisely to their desires, thanks to Carstay’s visionary craftsmanship and dedication to enriching the lives of travelers everywhere.

Bangkok, Thailand – The much-awaited Bangkok Auto Salon 2023, reputed as the largest custom car show in Southeast Asia, has commenced with great fanfare at the Bangkok International Trade and Exhibition Centre. Running from June 28th to July 2nd, 2023, the event is a paradise for automobile enthusiasts seeking to witness the latest innovations and stunning modifications.

One of the prominent highlights at the event was Toyota’s local subsidiary, Toyota Motor Thailand, showcasing an array of customized Hilux Revo pickup trucks. Among the standout models was the awe-inspiring “Hilux Revo Dragster,” stealing the limelight with its exceptional design and performance upgrades.

The Hilux holds a special place in the hearts of automotive enthusiasts, with its inception dating back to 1968. Born as an integrated successor model to the renowned “Brisca” and “Light Stout,” the Hilux was conceptualized by Toyota, developed, and produced in collaboration with Hino. The current 8th generation, released in May 2015, has garnered global support and admiration, making it an essential model for Toyota in the Thai market.

The local Thai version of this iconic pickup truck is marketed as the “Revo Hilux” with the subname “Revo.” It has been a popular choice among drivers for its durability, reliability, and adaptability to various customizations.

The star of the show, the “Revo Dragster,” is based on the Hilux Revo’s double cab “Z Edition 2.4 Entry.” However, the creators of this masterpiece have taken it to the next level by modifying the engine to churn out an impressive 500 horsepower effortlessly. The eye-catching exterior, adorned with black and red tones, immediately captures attention, but it’s the comprehensive replacement of various components that truly makes it exceptional.

Under the hood, the “Revo Dragster” boasts meticulously upgraded parts, including cylinder heads, piston cranks, intercoolers, exhaust kits, common rail pumps, shock absorbers, valve blocks, bonnet caps, tailgates, and rearview mirrors, among others. This finely tuned beast offers an exhilarating driving experience like no other, making it a true testament to Thailand’s burgeoning custom car culture.

Beside the “Revo Dragster,” the Bangkok Auto Salon 2023 also featured other striking custom Hilux Revo models, each with its unique appeal. Visitors were treated to marvels like “54TH,” “High Performance & Style,” “Twin Turbo,” and “Z Runner,” showcasing the depth and diversity of Thailand’s custom car scene.

As the event continues to attract car enthusiasts from all over Southeast Asia, it offers a captivating glimpse into Thailand’s thriving custom culture. Attendees are left inspired and in awe of the innovative and imaginative transformations that breathe new life into beloved automotive classics.

The Bangkok Auto Salon 2023 serves as a platform for car enthusiasts, manufacturers, and customizers to come together and celebrate their passion for automobiles, making it a must-visit event for anyone seeking an unforgettable experience in the world of customized cars.

Early July 2023 marked the exciting “Gunma Parts Show 2023” in Japan, showcasing an array of impressive off-road 4WDs and SUVs. Among the stunning lineup of vehicles, one stood out in particular, captivating the attention of enthusiasts and onlookers alike – the Hilux GR Sport from New Zealand.

Displayed proudly at the GR booth, the Hilux GR Sport boasts a distinctive design that sets it apart from the standard models found in Japan. Its hexagonal front grille, exuding a three-dimensional charm, immediately catches the eye. Notably more voluminous than its American counterparts, the Tacoma and Tundra, the grille’s bold design extends under the sleek headlights, creating a sharper and more powerful aesthetic.

The front bumper complements the striking grille with its intricately detailed shape, blending seamlessly with over fenders that extend prominently on the sides, accentuating the sporty front profile. A unique touch is added through the convergence of the over fender air intake and fog lamp garnish, creating a luxurious feel akin to that of a Tundra.

On the rear, the Hilux GR Sport continues to impress with a sporty design featuring the shape of the rear over fender and rear bumper. This design embodies the spirit of the popular overseas Sport Utility Truck (SUT) style, appealing to adventure-seekers worldwide.

Rolling on 265/65R17 tires, taller than the Japanese specification, the Hilux GR Sport rides confidently on mesh-type aluminum wheels with hexagons, further enhancing its rugged and commanding presence on the road.

Inside the cabin, the Hilux GR Sport offers a comfortable semi-bucket seat design, combining leather and fabric, adorned with the iconic GR mark. Special interior features such as red 3-point seat belts and a leather-wrapped shift knob contribute to the sporty atmosphere within the vehicle.

While the New Zealand edition of the Hilux GR Sport boasts numerous exciting upgrades, it comes at a price tag of approximately 6.7 million yen, making it notably more expensive than the Japanese Z・GR Sport, priced at 4,312,000 yen. Despite this, the stunning design and enhanced features have captivated the hearts of many enthusiasts, even within Japan.

Looking ahead, Toyota has announced plans to release a hybrid Hilux in 2024 in Australia, the neighboring country of New Zealand. This news raises anticipation for future variations of the Hilux, catering to the diverse preferences and needs of users worldwide.

As the Gunma Parts Show 2023 came to a close, many attendees and enthusiasts expressed their desire to see the New Zealand specification of the Hilux GR Sport made available in Japan. With its bold and powerful design, it is no wonder that many Japanese users would eagerly embrace this extraordinary version of the beloved Hilux.

While Toyota may consider the feasibility of introducing this exciting model to the Japanese market, one thing remains certain – the Hilux GR Sport has undoubtedly left a lasting impression and carved a special place in the hearts of enthusiasts everywhere.

Toyota wowed car enthusiasts and custom car aficionados at the Bangkok Auto Salon 2023, showcasing their latest lineup of personalized vehicles, with the spotlight on the striking “Hilux Revo High Performance & Style.” As the largest custom car show in Southeast Asia, the event was held in Bangkok, Thailand, from June 28th to July 2nd, 2023, drawing crowds of automotive enthusiasts from all around the region.

The Toyota Motor Thailand booth stole the show with an impressive array of customized Toyota Hilux Revo pickup trucks. The Hilux has a rich history, dating back to its first release in 1968, and it has since become a global success. The 8th generation, introduced in May 2015, has been especially beloved worldwide, making it a crucial model for Toyota in the Thai market.

At the heart of the display was the captivating “Hilux Revo High Performance & Style,” a variant based on the Hilux Revo Pre-Runner. While the front grille retained the iconic Revo design, it was the carefully selected modifications that set this custom car apart. Boasting a sporty front bumper, larger fenders, left and right steps, a roof spoiler, and a sleek tailgate cover, the “Revo High Performance & Style” certainly turned heads at the Auto Salon.

Performance enhancements were also evident in the vehicle’s suspension, which featured 20-inch wheels from Lenso Wheel and impressive 305/55 R20-inch tires made by Yokohama. This combination not only enhanced the truck’s appearance but also contributed to its overall performance on and off the road.

But the “Revo High Performance & Style” was not the only star at the Toyota booth. Visitors were treated to a delightful display of other custom Hilux Revo cars, each with its unique identity and flair. Names like “54TH,” “Twin Turbo,” “Drag Star,” and “Z Runner” brought a sense of excitement and anticipation to the event, as they showcased the diverse custom culture of Thailand.

For many attendees, the Bangkok Auto Salon 2023 provided a rare opportunity to witness firsthand the creativity and craftsmanship of Thai car enthusiasts. These custom cars are a testament to the passion and dedication of the automotive community in Thailand, offering a glimpse into a world where personalized vehicles become expressions of individuality and style.

With the success of the Bangkok Auto Salon 2023, Toyota once again solidified its position as a leader in the automotive industry, showcasing its commitment to innovation and its understanding of the evolving demands of the market. Car enthusiasts and fans of the Hilux Revo can now eagerly anticipate what the brand has in store for future models, as the legacy of this iconic pickup truck continues to evolve and inspire.