In the realm of rugged vehicles, few names resonate like the Toyota HiLux. Renowned for its reliability and versatility, it has long been a favourite with adventurers and tradies alike. In 2024, it has a new pinnacle, the GR Sport.
Rally-inspired at the hands of the Gazoo Racing crew, the 4×4 has a striking presence on the road, with its bold styling and rugged demeanor. A range of exterior enhancements make the dual-cab ute stand out from the crowd.
That starts with an LED lighting package, which includes puddle lamps, along with variant-specific wheel-arch mouldings, and a wide-track over-fender – which combines to give the truck a muscular and aggressive stance.
The 17-inch Dakar-style alloy wheels in Gloss Black, shod in Bridgestone Dueler all-terrain tyres, hide upsized ventilated front and rear disc brakes that not only provide superior stopping power but help enhance its beefy look.
The GR Sport is fitted with a Dakar-inspired front skid plate, steel rock rails and a pair of red-painted rear recovery points. It has the same track and width increase as the Rogue, at 135mm at the front and 155mm at the rear, with a 15mm ride height increase.
Its suspension is augmented further with the fitment of special KYB monotube shock absorbers tuned specifically for the vehicle, as well as the removal of the rear stabiliser bar providing increased suspension travel.
Offering a rigid ride, it delivers decent handling. Its only drawback is a poor turning circle at low speeds. Inside, a JBL 9-speaker premium sound system provides an exceptional audio experience.
It’s a comfortable and luxurious cabin too, with heated front seats that are perfect for chilly mornings. You won’t forget you’re in the GR Sport either, with plenty of badging to remind you. An 8.0-inch infotainment system is intuitive and easy to use.
It features Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. here are two cupholders in the front console, plus one each in the dash for the driver and front passenger. Two cooler boxes keep drinks and snacks chilled.
Under the hood is the same 2.8-litre 4-cylinder turbo diesel engine you’ll find across the rest of the range. It offers a decent amount of power and torque (165kW and 550Nm) for both on and off-road driving.
The 6-speed sports automatic transmission, with paddle shifters, provides smooth and responsive gear changes, ensuring a dynamic driving experience. It has a 3,500kg braked towing capacity, with fuel economy at 8.1-litres/100km.
Its safety suite includes high-speed active cruise control, blind spot monitoring, lane departure alert, road sign assist, a panoramic view monitor and rear cross traffic alert. Priced from $79,955 drive away, it offers a blend of performance, comfort, and style.
Whether you’re navigating challenging terrain or cruising the city streets, it delivers a capable and enjoyable driving experience. With its rugged design and advanced safety features, it’s a standout in the competitive “sporty” 4×4 ute segment.
Backed by Toyota’s 5-year unlimited kilometre warranty (extended to seven years on engine and driveline when you service with an authorised dealership), servicing is every 6-months or 10,000km (capped for the first 3-years or 60,000km).
The HiLux GR Sport comes in Glacier White, Frosted White, Feverish Red, Stunning Silver, Eclipse Black and Feverish Red. The first three can be had with a two-tone black roof. You can find out more on the Toyota Australia website, or talking to your local dealership.
To get a low rate finance quote, talk to Australia’s best reviewed car finance broker; Credit One. To see a great range of vehicles for sale, check out OnlyCars.com.au.
Our test vehicle was provided by Toyota Australia for independent review purposes. Images supplied.
