Today Ryan looks at the all-new Toyota Hilux to see how the ‘indestructible’ pickup fares against some pretty fierce competition.The Toyota Hilux is famed for its ‘indestructible’ build quality thanks to BBC’s Top Gear series. Competition in the pickup sector is fiercer than ever though and with some highly rated competitors including the VW Amarok, Nissan Navara and Mitsubishi L200, how does the new Hilux fare? Today we want to find out and also answer that all-important question – could this be the perfect pickup lease for you? Let’s find out:
Size Matters
The Hilux has been completely restyled with a new bonnet, headlamps and grille, which give it a more modern and aggressive feel than its predecessor. There are currently 3 model options including the entry level HL2, the HL3 and the top of the range Invincible. All models are also available in single cab and double cab configurations. It’s fair to say that pickups are all fairly similar in terms of load dimensions and capacity. The old Hilux was slightly smaller than its competitors though so the new one is that bit bigger and is now comparable to the load capacity of the Nissan Navara. Single cab deck length is 2315mm (double cab is 1520mm), deck width is 1520mm (double cab is 1515mm) and deck height is 450mm in both single and double cab configurations.
Three load covers are offered including 1 flat cover and 2 that are the same height as the cab.
Creature Comforts
Things have really improved inside the cab following criticism that the last model didn’t have the same quality feel as other pickups. There is a completely new look with restyled dashboard and instrument cluster and everything benefits from increased finish quality. The result is a much more refined and premium cab area in line with the feel you get in the new VW Amarok pickup. Toyota has also fitted some class leading features into the Hilux. The HL3 and Invincible in particular come with fantastic features as standard including a 6.1inch Toyota Touch multimedia unit, Bluetooth connectivity and a USB plug in for connecting your MP3 player to the stereo system. In terms of comfort and space inside the cab, there’s plenty of room for both driver and passengers and the new Hilux is most definitely more spacious and comfortable than before. There’s plenty of storage for bottles, documents and pretty much anything you can think of and the new wider doors give even easier access to the cab area.
On the Road
The new Euro 5 compliant engines in the 2012 Toyota Hilux are a real step up from the ones they’re replacing. They produce the lowest emissions in their class, which improves their rating and results in a reduction in the tax you need to pay. You’ll also benefit from impressive fuel economy for a vehicle of this size (combined 38.7mpg), which is a great selling point as the price we pay for fuel continues to increase. In terms of the drive, the new Hilux has a refined and car-like feel that makes it really enjoyable even on those longer journeys. There is a 2.5 Litre D-4D and a 3.0 Litre D-4D available and although both are great, we’d recommend taking the 3.0 Litre option, which provides greater torque, acceleration and performance.
Safety has clearly been taken into great consideration and Toyota have included ABS, an energy absorbing frame structure, collapsible steering column, retractable brake pedal to minimise injuries in a crash and twin airbags all as standard.
The Verdict
If you’re in the market for a new pickup then you’re spoilt for choice. The new Toyota Hilux is no exception and is certainly up there with other class-leading vehicles. It’s more refined, better looking, bigger and a great drive – especially if you opt for the 3.0 Litre D-4D configuration. Overall it really is a great pickup leasing deal.
