Daijiworld Media Network – New Delhi
New Delhi, Jul 29: Toyota Kirloskar Motor has launched the ninth-generation Hilux pickup truck in India at a starting price of Rs 32 lakh (ex-showroom), introducing a refreshed design, updated features and an upgraded cabin.
The lifestyle pickup truck is available in three variants – GX 4X2, GX 4X4 and VX 4X4. While it continues to be based on the previous-generation platform, the latest Hilux receives significant cosmetic and feature upgrades aimed at enhancing its road presence and off-road appeal.
The exterior sports a bolder look with a larger grille featuring prominent 'TOYOTA' lettering, slimmer LED headlamps, a redesigned bumper and a silver skid plate. The profile gets blacked-out door handles, chunky body cladding and 17-inch black alloy wheels, while the rear features redesigned LED tail-lamps, a revised bumper and 'TOYOTA' branding across the tailgate. The India-spec model will continue to be offered only in the dual-cab configuration.
Inside, the Hilux gets an all-black cabin with a redesigned dashboard, soft-touch materials, a larger floating touchscreen infotainment system, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a new steering wheel. Rear passengers benefit from adjustable headrests, dedicated AC vents, USB Type-C charging ports and a centre armrest with cupholders.
The pickup comes equipped with a 12.3-inch touchscreen supporting wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, connected car technology, an eight-speaker audio system, wireless phone charging, manual climate control and manually adjustable front seats.
Safety features include seven airbags, electronic stability control (ESC), hill hold control, front and rear parking sensors, a 360-degree camera and front disc brakes. Toyota said the Hilux has earned five-star safety ratings in both ASEAN NCAP and Australian NCAP crash tests.
Powering the new Hilux is the same 2.8-litre mild-hybrid diesel engine used in the Toyota Fortuner, producing 204 PS of power and 500 Nm of torque. The engine is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and is offered with both rear-wheel-drive and four-wheel-drive configurations.
Designed with off-road capability in mind, the pickup also features 10 terrain modes, hill descent control and a water-wading capacity of 700 mm.
In the Indian market, the Hilux continues to rival the Isuzu V-Cross, while also serving as an alternative to body-on-frame SUVs such as the Toyota Fortuner, MG Majestor and Isuzu MU-X.