More modern design and all-new engine options are biggest changes. All in all, will be a good 2016 for UMWT

Just moments ago UMW Toyota Sdn. Bhd. (UMWT) officially launched the all-new Toyota Hilux, now in its eighth-generation and certainly one of the most popular models in UMWT’s line-up. Six variants are made available, namely:

UMWT expects to sell up to 17,000 units of the Hilux before the year ends.

Design & construction

Unsurprisingly, there was an aim to highlight the vehicle’s tough character; but eventually the design team opted to build an emotional connection between that quality and ‘style’. As such, you can see how the overall design may look more appealing to a wider scope of buyers. This is likely crucial of course, since not all buyers are the ‘industrial’ types.

Compared to the previous gen, the all-new (double cab) Hilux is 70mm longer and 20mm wider. Ground clearance is 286mm.

The 2.8G features LED projector headlamps with LED daytime running lights while other variants have halogens (with DRLs). All G variants also come with front fog lamps. However, all variants are equipped with fog lamps at the rear.

Cargo volume is increased too thanks to a wider reinforced deck.

Cabin

Looks fabulous to us, and that’s saying a lot considering the segment. The higher levels of refinement and comfort apparently comes from a certain Hiroki Nakajima, the executive chief engineer of the project. His previous work is more focussed on cars rather than pick-ups; and it shows.

The top-spec 2.8G variant features an Optitron meter which was originally developed for Lexus. The steering has a 4-way MID controls for driving information such as fuel consumption and vehicle status which are all displayed in the multi-information display in between the two man meters.

Leather upholstery is standard for the 2.8G/2.4G variants with automatic transmission. The single cab however have seats that are wrapped with PVC upholstery, since buyers usually use the vehicle for business purposes.

Special attention is given to lower NVH (noise, vibration and harshness) noise by improvements to the body structure as well as using lining on the sides of the window glass together with larger door seals. Extra insulators are also added to various parts of the engine, engine compartment and firewall.

Powertrain

Big change here – both the 2.8-litre and 2.4-litre engines are new and part of the Global Diesel (GD) turbodiesel series. The previous 3.0-litre and 2.5-litre diesel units are no longer available.

The 1GD-FTV 2.8L generates 177ps at 3,400rpm – roughly 9% more than the 3.0L it replaces. Torque output is 450Nm between 1,600rpm and 2,400rpm, an amazingly 31% more than before.

For the 2.4L (2GD-FTV) unit, it produces 150ps at 3,400rpm and 400Nm. Torque is 400Nm between 1,600rpm and 2,000rpm. Compared to the 2.5L engine it replaces, this amounts to an increase of 4% and 16% respectively, despite being a smaller displacement.

Efficiency is reportedly better than before (and we will have a first impression test drive report coming up soon) and with the larger 80-litre fuel tank, it means more effective range per fill-up.

The transfer case is much smarter too – instead of a second lever to operate it, an electronic transfer dial manages selection between 4H or 2H. And it can be done on-the-fly under the speed of 100kmh.

Safety

Besides the expected ABS and EBD, both 2.8G and 2.4G variants are equipped with Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and Traction Control (TRC). Hill-Start Assist Control (HAC) is also standard, interestingly going forward or reversing up a slope.

The Trailer Sway Control (TSC) feature overcomes the effects of crosswinds or variations in the road surface that may cause trailer sway. Brake and engine output is varied accordingly to control it.

All variants come with three airbags, with an additional one on the door sides of each front seat standard on the 2.8G.

ASEAN NCAP has awarded the all-new (VSC-equipped) Toyota Hilux with full 5-star rating in the adult occupant protection category.