An update to Malaysia's favourite pickup truck is just around the corner. UMW Toyota Motor (UMWT) has confirmed that it is now accepting orders for the 2020 Hilux, which will be sold in five updated variants which give customers the choice of a 2.4-litre mill and an improved 2.8-litre turbodiesel unit.
The bigger engine now packs 204PS and 500Nm of twist. This marks an improvement of 27PS and 50Nm over the pre-facelift unit. Despite the hike in performance, UMWT insists that fuel economy remains unchanged thanks to a two-stage oil pump capable of modulating oil pressure and a water-cooled pre-EGR (exhaust gas recirculation) cooler in place to optimise EGR gas temperature.
All double cab models also pack a variable flow control system which reduces the stress on the power steering pump for better manoeuvrability and economy. An automated limited slip differential (LSD) and Toyota Safety Sense package (pre-collision system, dynamic radar cruise control, lane departure alert) are also in the mix of new features for the facelifted Hilux.
Visually, new bumpers, LED headlamps 17- and 18-inch wheel designs and front grille are among the expected revisions. Toyota has also redecorated the Hilux's interior with a new trim design, meters and illuminated door trim garnish - even the 'key cover' is supposedly new.
Prices for the 2020 Toyota Hilux are estimated to start from RM93,880 for the Single Cab 2.4 (MT) 4x4 before maxing out at RM148,880 for the Double Cab 2.8 Rogue (AT) 4x4. The latter is the sole 2.8-litre variant in the catalogue, and the natural successor to the current range-topper, the 2.8 Black Edition.
The remaining three variants are the 2.4G (MT) 4x4, 2.4E (AT) 4x4 and 2.4V (AT) 4x4, which should set you back RM112,880, RM109,880 and RM134,880 respectively.