What all Features Make Toyota Hilux One of the Best Available Pickup?

MANILA: Toyota Hilux is regarded as one of the most reliable pickup of all times. The said vehicle has a long history that dates back to 1960's when it was a product of Hino Motors, a Japanese commercial vehicle manufacturer. Back then it was called Hino Briska and when it was about to enter into its second generation model year, Toyota's eye caught the potential that this small pickup behold. Toyota delayed no further and soon entered into a partnership agreement with Hino, under which it proposed minor but worthy modifications for Briska.

But Toyota had bigger plans for the said vehicle and in around 1967 added its branding to the name, Toyota Briska. And a year later changed the name from Briska to Hilux that originated from mixing two words - high and luxury. Rest what happened is history that came along with a successful present and promising future.

Toyota Hilux is often referred to as world's most reliable pickup and this fact is rightly supported by 16 million units that till date have been sold worldwide. Talking specifically about the Philippines market, Hilux since its 1993 launch has sold 56,417 units. And it was only last year that Toyota Philippines introduced all-new Hilux that up till now has sold approximately 11,787 units. Not bad, we must say.

Let's now start with new Hilux stand out features that make it class-apart and helped it gain the title of 'king of pickups' as said by Michinobu Sugata, Toyota Motors Philippines President.

1. Greater Power & Awesome Performance:

Toyota Hilux showcases an awesome under hood configuration that helps it compete with the likes of Mitsubishi Strada and all-new Nissan Nirvana. As for the 2015 model year, Toyota has implanted Hilux with a new diesel GD mill that is known for its quieter attitude. So, replacing the old 3.0L turbo engine, you'll now find a 2.8L powerhouse resting in its place producing 174 hp of power and 450 Nm of torque. In addition, the 2.5L diesel has also witnessed its farewell this time around and in its place has entered a better performing 2.4L diesel engine. The said mill produces a maximum power of 147 hp along with the peak torque of 400 Nm (343 hp in base trim).

Now, coming to its performance, new Hilux is meant to be driven around on rough and uneven tracks. Also, suiting your requirement you can pick either a four-wheel (available with 2.8L trim) and a two-wheel (2.4L trim) drivetrain fitted Hilux. Enhancing its four-wheel drive experience is present the push-button activated rear differential locking system.

Also, it is for the first time that Toyota has integrated Hilux with iMT (intelligent manual transmission system). The said system first analyses how driver operates and then automatically controls engine speed and match it with that of the transmission pace.

Further, complementing its excellent power and performance is present a great set of rear and front suspension. That keep good care of you and your belongings, making sure rare to minimum effect is delivered to the cabin and loading area.

2. Strong & Fearless Exterior Body:

Toyota has not only revised Hilux on the power front but has also employed great efforts on the designing aspect. Starting from the front, Hilux now gets a new four-layered grille design that is followed by large air dam beneath. Also, on the front are present halogen headlamps, contoured bonnet and black cladding housed fog lamps. On to the side are present, ORVM with side signal lamps, 17-inch alloy wheels and a spacious sturdy cargo bed. As for the rear end, Hilux has been integrated with new taillamps, chrome boot lid and rear stepping area.

All in all, Toyota Hilux carries a gen-next design, making a shift from rather boring to trendy appearance.

3. Comfort & Control Loaded Cabin:

Sitting inside Hilux is now an all new experience. Toyota over the years has tried to improve its pickup comfort and integrate more car-like feel and features within. This time around with 2016 Hilux, it has achieved great success on this front and has made sure that driver's comfort is not compromised even a bit. So, now you can find an ergonomically designed dashboard, 4.2 TFT Type MID gauge, cool box, multiple cup holders, and automatic air-con controls. Connectivity and entertainment are now supported with USB/AUX connect and touch audio cum nav system.

4. Protective Nature:

All-new Hilux despite being powerful is well-equipped with best-in-class safety features. First and foremost is its long array of airbags availability including front, curtain, shield, and driver's knee. Giving Hilux the much-needed stability when riding on the slippery terrains is its Active Traction Control system. In addition, is also present ABS brake system that ensures that there is no skidding and wheel locking.