After launching in several other countries (yes, including Malaysia), the new ninth-generation Toyota Hilux has finally made its way to its home market of Japan. Unlike us, this made-in-Thailand pick-up arrives with pure diesel power, with no electric version in sight. Reinforcing the fact that these trucks are used as lifestyle vehicles in the Land of the Rising Sun, the Hilux is being sold in just two highly-specified trims – the Z at 4,980,800 yen (RM124,300) and the more rugged-looking Z Adventure at 5,500,000 yen (RM137,200). Both are powered by a 1GD-FTV 2.8 litre four-cylinder turbodiesel engine, producing 204 PS from 3,000 to 3,400 rpm and 500 Nm of torque between 1,600 and 2,800 rpm. There’s no mild hybrid system augmenting it, just a six-speed automatic gearbox and a part-time four-wheel drive system. This delivers a combined fuel consumption figure of 11.9 km per litre on Japan’s more lenient version of the WLTP cycle. To recap, the Hilux continues to ride on a version of Toyota’s ubiquitous Innovative International Multi-purpose Vehicle (IMV) ladder frame platform, introduced on the seventh-gen model. Various upgrades have increased rigidity, reduced vibrations, smoothened the handling and improved the precision and response of the steering, which has switched to electric instead of hydraulic assistance. The rear brakes are now discs, too. New on this latest model is Multi-Terrain System (MTS), a rotary dial with selectable Dirt, Sand, Mud, Rock and Snow drive modes that control throttle and gearbox response. Users also benefit from a Multi-Terrain Monitor with surrounding and underfloor views built into the new 360-degree camera system. A rear locking differential comes standard, of course. Designed under the concept of “Cyber Sumo”, the new Hilux’s exterior retains the cab section of the previous model but with a redesigned front fascia, featuring slim LED projector headlights with L-shaped daytime running lights. These are joined together by a black bar embossed with the Toyota script, plus a large body-coloured rectangular grille. A hexagonal skid plate and plastic surround houses the air intake and fog lights. Moving rearwards, you’ll find more prominent fender box flares and more hexagons in the wheel arch trims, while the Revo’s triangular taillights have been flipped upside down. The new lamps come with wraparound “tails” and C-shaped LED graphics. There’s also a built-in tailgate spoiler, the stamped Toyota script and steps by the rear bumper to improve access to the bed, the latter similar to the latest Ford Ranger. The Z is fitted with black overfenders and 18-inch two-tone alloy wheels, with the Adventure – analogous to the Overland trim in other markets – adding a more aggressive front skid plate, mesh bumper corners, black cross-spoke alloys, grippier side steps, side mouldings, a bed liner, an integrated rear sports bar and black rear Toyota lettering. There’s also a tailgate damper to make for an easier and smoother opening. Inside, the revisions are similarly wide-ranging, with an angular dashboard and door cards, plus a hexagon design for the air-con vents and controls and the instrument cluster. The centre cluster is similar to the one in the Land Cruiser Prado/250, as is the steering wheel and the flatter gearlever and stitched boot. The seats have also been redesigned for greater ergonomic comfort and are upholstered in SofTex faux leather in either black on the Z or Mineral (read: teal) on the Z Adventure. Meanwhile, the screens have been made larger, with a 12.3-inch instrument display and infotainment touchscreen. Lower down, the powertrain and drivetrain controls – including the MTS knob, a new 4WD toggle switch and an electronic parking brake – have been separated from the other switchgear to maximise ease of use. As before, you still get corner cupholders by the air vents, dual gloveboxes and a stitched dash. The addition of electric power steering and EPB have enabled Level 2 semi-autonomous driving features such as adaptive cruise control with stop and go and lane centring assist, all enhanced as part of the latest Toyota Safety Sense 3.0. Also added is a junction turning function for the autonomous emergency braking system and Proactive Driving Assist, the latter smoothening braking and steering response in city driving. Looking to sell your car? Sell it with Carro. Use the promo code 'PAULTAN' when you checkout for 10% discount!
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