Toyota Hilux

The 2018 Toyota Hilux probably needs no introduction - it is one of the most well-known pick-up trucks on sale right now, thanks to a reputation for reliability and durability it built over the years. UMW Toyota Motor introduced the facelifted Hilux back in 2018, dubbed the L-Edition. 

2018 Toyota Hilux Gallery

Design

The 2018 Toyota Hilux update brought along a revised front end that features a new grille and bumper. UMW Toyota also offers a fully black-out variant aptly called the Hilux Black Edition.

Dimensions

Double cab variants of the Toyota Hilux measure 5,330 mm long, 1,855 mm wide, and 1,815 mm high. It has a 3,085 mm wheelbase. 

The Hilux Single Cab measures 5,330 mm long, 1,815 mm wide, and 1,795 mm high. Its 3085 mm wheelbase is identical to the Double Cab variants.

Lighting

The range-topping Hilux 2.8 Black Edition gets automatic LED projector headlights, LED daytime running lights, and LED front fog lights. 

Other variants get automatic halogen reflector headlights with bulb-type daytime running lights. 

Wheels

Both the Hilux 2.8 Black Edition and Hilux 2.4 L-Edition receive 18-inch alloy wheels with a similar design, but with different finishing. The wheels on the Hilux Black Edition are blacked out, while the Hilux L-Edition get dual-tone finishing.

Hilux 2.4 G variants get 17-inch alloy wheels, while the Hilux 2.4 Std get 17-inch steel wheels with plastic covers. 

The base Hilux 2.4 Single Cab get 17-inch steel wheels wrapped in commercial tires.

Dashboard

Unlike Hilux models of yore, the current-generation model gets a more upmarket dashboard, with selected variants receiving an Optitron instrument cluster and digital climate control system.

The Toyota Hilux also gets a chilled upper glovebox.

Space and Practicality

The cabin of the 2018 Toyota Hilux is reasonably practical, as it features a number of cubby holes to store various small items. 

If more storage space is needed, the rear seats can be tipped up to store items underneath. 

Boot

The truck bed of the Toyota Hilux comes in two different sizes, as the Hilux Single Cab has a larger truck bed than the Double Cab.

2018 Toyota Hilux Specs and Features

Safety Features

Toyota has put safety as a priority on the Hilux, as upper variants of the Hilux receive 7 airbags, stability control, and traction control.

The Hilux 2.8 Black Edition also gets a built-in digital video recorder. 

Furthermore, owners can also choose to have Blind Spot Monitor and Rear Cross Traffic Alert fitted to the Hilux as an optional extra.

Comfort features

Upper variants of the Toyota Hilux get leather upholstery and an 8-way power-adjustable driver seat. 

Infotainment

A 6.75-inch touchscreen head unit pumps audio through a 6-speaker sound system. The head unit also features Android Auto and Apple CarPlay support.

Engine

Two turbocharged diesel engines are available in the 2018 Toyota Hilux's engine room - a 2.4- and 2.8-litre. The 2.4-litre does 150 PS at 3,400 rpm and 400 Nm from 1,600 to 2,000 rpm.

The larger 2.8-litre unit does 177 PS at 3,400 rpm and 450 Nm from 1,600 to 2,400 rpm. 

Transmission

Transmission choices include a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed manual.

Drivetrain

All variants of the Toyota Hilux feature a part-time 4WD system with Automatic Disconnecting Differential (ADD).

Acceleration

Toyota does not provide any 0-100 km/h figures for the Hilux.

Engine Performance

On the road, the Hilux's 2.8-litre turbodiesel provides sufficient power for day-to-day driving conditions.

Its full 450 Nm of torque is made available from a low 1,600 rpm, which makes overtaking a breeze.

Transmission Performance

The Hilux's 6-speed automatic offers Eco and Power modes, in addition to a manual mode. 

Gear shifts are reasonably smooth.

Steering and Handling

Similar to other pick-up trucks, the Hilux's steering is on the heavier end of the scale. Steering response is predictable.

Sound Proofing

The Hilux's utilitarian DNA is made apparent here - we wished that sound proofing and cabin refinement levels was better as engine noise can be noticeable at speeds.

Passenger Comfort

Ride comfort of the Toyota Hilux is nothing to write home about - it is decent enough for daily commute, though for those seeking a comfortable pick-up truck should consider the Mitsubishi Triton or Ford Ranger instead. 

Fuel Consumption

Toyota says that the Hilux 2.8 returns 8.5-litre/100 km (combined), though real-world figures may differ.

It's not hard to see why the Toyota Hilux is so popular - it has a solid reputation for reliability and durability that it built over the years. 

Couple that with the fact that even in rural parts of East Malaysia, Hilux parts can be found in a village grocery store makes it a default choice for many - private and business owners alike. （Toyota Hilux Vs Mitsubishi Triton 2019 Vs Ford Ranger ）