The Ford Ranger Raptor better watch out: Toyota has just significantly upgraded its flagship Hilux GR Sport pickup truck. After previewing it early this year, it is ready to hit global markets (rumored to include the Philippines by year-end).
At the heart of the matter, the Hilux GR Sport receives a retuned 1GD-FTV engine. The 2.8-liter 4-cylinder turbo diesel now produces 221 horsepower and 550 Nm of torque (up from 201 horsepower and 500 Nm). The 6-speed automatic’s also been beefed up to take the extra output.
The Hilux GR Sport sports a wide track platform (same as the Hilux Rogue) with a track width increase of 135 mm in front and 155 mm at the back. It’s also taller by 15 mm. It also gets larger piston KYB monotube shock absorbers, while the removal of the rear sway back allows for greater axle articulation and better ground contact over uneven surfaces.
Off-road traction is further improved with the fitment of 265/65 R17 Bridgestone Dueler AT tires, fitted on “Dakar-style” black alloy wheels. Disc brakes are also found at all corners with four pistons at the front.
The Hilux GR Sport continues to get the black mesh grille with the “TOYOTA” script logo and of course, a GR badge. The redesigned front bumper brings an improved approach angle, and features new fog lamp bezels, a silver lower molding, and skid plate. Large black over fenders house the increased track width and feature aero ducts at the front that help to reduce turbulence.
Over to the sides, the Hilux GR Sport gets powder-coated rock rails made of 2 mm steel to protect the door sills and vehicle underbody. At the rear, red recovery points and a black rear bumper finish the exterior look, and are paired with a pre-installed towbar, tow ball, and trailer wiring harness.
Inside, the Hilux GR Sport receives a rally-inspired leather-wrapped steering wheel with paddle shifters, a red center stripe, and GR logo. More GR logos are found on the unique front sports seats upholstered in a mix of leather accented and suede trim, matched with grey stitching and red seat belts.
Aluminum pedals, a new ‘Technical Mesh’ dashboard trim, a unique GR Sport shift lever, and all-weather floor mats provide further visual differentiation, while audio is via a nine-speaker JBL system.
The revised Hilux GR Sport will launch first in Australia in September where it will be priced at AUD 73,990 (P 2.701 million). By comparison, the Ranger Raptor is priced there at AUD 86,790 (P 3.16 million), but that one is powered by the 3.0-liter twin turbo V6 gas engine. Also, by 2024, the Hilux will also benefit from a mild-hybrid powertrain.
With Akio Toyoda (aka Morizo) gracing a planned Gazoo Racing Festival on August 23, the revised Hilux GR Sport could be previewed by then. Do you think it’s game over for the Ranger Raptor?
Hilux Grand Raptor(GR)
ReplyDeleteThis is the proper GR Sport that we should have gotten in the first place!
ReplyDeleteNaluluma na agad ang bagong Strada, 201hp/470nm vs Hilux: 221hp/550nm Ranger: 208hp/500nm. Hilux is the winner if this GR Sport will be brought to the Philippines! Ford PH, ilabas niyo na ang V6 Raptor kung ayaw niyo matalo sa horsepower wars.
ReplyDeleteWhat is the rear suspension set-up?
ReplyDeleteYun nga lang hari ng tagtag
DeleteFord PH, wake up call!!! V6 Raptor please...
ReplyDeleteIf this aint got the fox suspension, its simply a gimick to get a slice of the pie.
ReplyDeleteAgree
DeleteThose looking for a lifestyle pickup that is more powerful and reliable than the current 2nd gen 2.0 biturbo diesel ranger raptor. This will be a great alternative. Just save a little more as Toyota will surely jack up the price on this one or some dealers gimmick.
ReplyDeleteGood body kits, increase engine hp, wider suspension stance. Same old body/interior. A good farewell to this generation of hilux as they will introduce a new generation hilux by 2025.
Having your engine re-tuned to reliable tuners will likely give you more or less the same power ups. 🙂
ReplyDelete