If you look at Toyota’s operating strategies for large and premium mainstream vehicles in India, we can see that SUVs have been the priority. So, the Fortuner has been on sale for quite some time, but the Hilux has been on sale for a little over four. As far as features, technology and equipment are concerned, Fortuner has overtaken Hilux to take the first position.
Same was the case with the mild hybrid engine, which is currently available only in Fortuner. However, the role seems to be changing as far as the next generation models of Fortuner and Hilux are concerned. This is because the new-generation Toyota Hilux is launching in India next month, while the new-generation Fortuner is yet to make its global debut.
New generation Toyota Hilux
Making its global debut as the Hilux Travo for the ASEAN markets, the 9th generation Toyota Hilux is making its way to the Indian market. When launched, it will replace the current 8th generation model. Talking about the current Hilux in India, its price starts at Rs 28.52 lakh for the base STD MT variant and goes up to Rs 36 lakh (ex-sh) for the high AT variant.
Due to lack of variety, the Toyota Hilux is the most expensive pickup truck currently on sale in India. The price of the new generation Hilux is still expected to be steep, considering everything it is bringing to the table. It gets a complete exterior design with an all-new design language that brings a healthy dose of modernity and aggression.
We get a brand new fascia with sleek LED headlights that are joined by a black plaque with Toyota inscription. Below this is a honeycomb grille in body colour, flanked by sporty air intakes. There are now massive bumpers and the wheels have a new design. The side silhouette is mostly taken up and so is the platform on which it is based.
The rear taillights are still vertical, but they have modified LEDs for a modern aesthetic. The tailgate is of the drop-down type with large Toyota letters. Depending on the variant, the Hilux may also get a roll cage for the rear load bed. The load bed will have wheel-well intrusion and will provide carrying capacity consistent with the mid-size pickup truck segment.
Brand new interior
A major change has been made inside the 9th generation Toyota Hilux. The new interior looks modern and utilitarian and has two 12.3-inch displays at its centre, one for infotainment and the other for instrumentation. The overall dashboard is now layered and angular and it also gets twin gloveboxes. There’s a new steering wheel with physical buttons and dials on the center console for most functions, which is a big accomplishment in our books.
Features will include powered and ventilated front seats, dual zone climate control, wireless charging pad, blindspot monitoring, 360 degree cameras, radar based ADAS suite and more. The same 2.8L turbo diesel engine does the duty with 204 bhp and 500 Nm, mated to a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic gearbox with a 48V mild hybrid system and transfer case for 4X4 capabilities.
