By: Jason Woosey
Bangkok, Thailand - Given the sheer quantity of spy pictures that have done their rounds, showing the all-new Hilux practically undisguised, the official reveal is something of an anticlimax.
Nonetheless we now get to see the newest version of Toyota's sales champion from all angles in good quality pictures, following Toyota's simultaneous reveal events that took place in Thailand and Australia on Thursday.
This eight generation of the Hilux has been completely redesigned from the inside out and its more elaborate exterior design, complete with flared wheel-arches and shapely headlights that sweep into a more muscular grille, was conceived with the aim of attracting those who are migrating from an SUV or passenger car to as bakkie for the first time.
Of course, Toyota insists that this new model is every bit as tough as you'd expect a Hilux to be, but that the redesign focused on making it easier to drive and creating a more refined overall driving experience with less cabin noise and an improved ride quality. To achieve that, this Hilux is built on an all-new and more rigid frame and the suspension system has been thoroughly updated.
Powering the 2016 Hilux are a pair of new 2.4-litre and 2.8-litre turbodiesel engines, offering more power and improved fuel efficiency. Also new is a six-speed automatic gearbox option and what Toyota calls an Intelligent Manual Transmission with rev matching technology, the latter being a bakkie first.
Toyota SA has yet to disclose any engine outputs, but numerous sources abroad reckon the 2.8 is good for 130kW, with 450Nm of torque available in automatic gearbox versions and 420Nm in six-speed manual models. The 2.4-litre reportedly produces 110kW and 343Nm in five-speed manual form, with total twisting force rising to 400Nm if you opt for the autobox.
Expect 4x4 derivatives to offer improved off-road ability and extra convenience in the form of electronic 4WD switch-over at the touch of a button inside the plusher cabin.
In here we see a brand new dashboard resembling the one in the latest Corolla and offering the option of a modern touch-screen infotainment system complete with a reverse camera. The bakkie's increased dimensions also result in some additional cabin space.
Toyota South Africa is remaining tight-lipped about the local line-up and specs, but promises to reveal more as we get closer to the local launch date, set for the first quarter of 2016. Given that the Ford Ranger, itself due for an update soon , has been giving the Hilux such a good run for its money on the sales charts recently, we're sure to witness an epic sales battle next year.