BY Aurelia Mbokazi-Kashe
The Hilux is South Africa’s most beloved bakkie, and it’s not difficult to see why. It is engineered to be tough where it counts while providing a comfortable ride, rivaling most vehicles on our roads. For generations, South Africans have ensured that there’s a Hilux in their garages.
Built to last and enjoyable on every occasion, the Hilux handles various terrains effortlessly, making it perfect for work, leisure, and adventure. Recently, Toyota unveiled the newly refreshed Hilux to the media in KZN to showcase its new features.
First look
As we landed at a warm King Shaka International Airport, we were greeted by a fleet of Hiluxes lined-up in the car rental parking lot. Each had its personality, reflecting the diversity of Hilux owners. The eighth-generation Hilux, with its refined design, is packed with technology aimed at protecting the planet. It features innovative 48V hybrid technology in selected double cabs and Toyota-approved accessories that can be fitted at dealerships upon purchase.
The drive
The route was designed to showcase the Hilux Raider’s ability to handle various terrains and lifestyles. We chose a white Hilux with an imposing black roof rack, popular among the farming community. I could imagine us comfortably transporting a ram or a Bonsmara calf at the back.
The first leg of the drive took us on the N2 north to Ballito, where the Hilux Raider fit in comfortably at the stylish Ballito Lifestyle Centre. On the freeway from the airport toward Northern KZN, it handled like a small car and felt comfortable on the road, effortlessly producing ample power for takeoff and overtaking.
Our gadgets connected within seconds, and my co-driver and I were deep in conversation minutes after leaving the airport. We quickly forgot we weren’t driving our usual cars – a testament to the enjoyable drive. The trip concluded with an overnight stay at Fordoun Hotel and Spa in the Midlands.
After a leisurely lunch and some people-watching at the trendy Peron Peron, we were back in our car and headed to the Midlands. This time, we took the older R614 route through the undulating country roads of rural KwaZulu Natal instead of the southbound freeway. Navigating the meandering, unkempt roads in sugar cane country is where the Hilux shone. In eco mode, it provided smooth and ample power, even on steep inclines with the air conditioner on full blast. The 2.8-litre GD-6 turbo-diesel four-cylinder powertrain was in its element.
Occasionally, we had to slow down in rural towns like Bhamshela to yield to locals and their animals, which seemed to have freedom of the road. Apart from those instances, it was a smooth ride, with the Hilux showing its prowess even on the most challenging sections of the road.
Technology
Modern bakkie drivers are conscious of their carbon footprint and committed to saving the planet. With this in mind, Toyota upgraded the Hilux to a mild hybrid, equipping it with 48V technology, including a motor generator, 48-volt battery, and DC/DC converter integrated into the 2.8-litre GD-6 turbo-diesel four-cylinder powertrain and six-speed automatic transmission. This boosts the vehicle’s eco-friendly features and was impressive to experience.
Most importantly, it’s reassuring to know there’s a backup to fuel, allowing for more distance before needing to fill up. The Toyota Hilux Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicle (MHEV) can reduce fuel consumption by up to 10% compared to regular 2.8-litre engines, according to Toyota.
Hilux lifestyle
In addition to the new technology, the launch showcased Toyota-approved lifestyle accessories. These include roof racks, cross bars, rooftop tents, roof boxes, bike carriers, fridges, recovery boards, solar panels, and more.
Toyota has collaborated with brands like 4×4, 4×4 Megaworld, Front Runner, IVXIVBUSHINDABA, and Thule. The accessories are competitively priced and conveniently available through Toyota dealers across South Africa and neighboring countries. Instead of taking your bakkie to another center for fitting, motorists can now have these accessories installed at Toyota dealerships.
This is a significant advantage, as many motorists enjoy expressing their individuality through accessories. The new design elements, including black side mirrors and door handles, already make the Hilux stand out on crowded roads.
From R587, 200 for the Hilux Raider 2.8 GD-6 RB 6AT extra cab up to R876, 600 for the top-of-the-range Hilux Raider 2.8 GD-6 4×4 6AT 48V.
