UMW Toyota has revamped its ever-popular eighth-generation Hilux pickup truck with more power, safety and comfort.
There have been some changes to the Hilux lineup.
The current 4X4 lineup starts with the 2.4 Single Cab MT (Manual Transmission) followed by a new mid-range 2.4 E AT variant.
Next up is the 2.4 G MT followed by the 2.4 V AT and the flagship 2.8 Rogue AT. They are priced respectively at RM92,880; RM108,880; RM111,880; RM133,880; and RM146,880.
The new Hilux was launched locally today in an online premiere via Facebook Live.
For colour choices, the Hilux can be draped in seven colour options starting with a new Bronze Mica Metallic that has been added to the usual list of Crimson Spark Metallic, Phantom Brown Metallic, Super White II, Attitude Black Mica, Silver Metallic and Medium Silver Metallic.
Changes to the exterior of the Hilux include new front headlights, grille, bumper, fogs, fog bezels, rear combination lamps and new wheels.
Power now comes from a revised 2.8-litre (2,755cc) 1GD-FTV turbo-diesel engine producing 204PS (+27PS) at 3,400rpm and 500Nm (+50Nm) of torque from 1,600 to 2,800rpm. The engine is now 4% more efficient than before.
A six-speed automatic with Super Electronically Controlled Transmission (ECT) and sequential shifter manages power delivery to the part-time four-wheel-drive (4WD) system with an automatic disconnecting differential.
The suspension still maintains the front independent double-wishbone with coil springs and stabilisers and rear leaf spring with a rigid axle combination.
Stopping power comes from front four-piston callipers with ventilated discs and rear leading-trailing drums that get partially hidden by the 18-inch alloys wheels with 265/60 all-terrain and highway tyres.
Exclusive to the Rogue variant are the inclusions of LEDs for the automatic projector headlights with follow-me-home function, daytime running lights, over-fenders, rear "HILUX" tailgate garnish as well as front and rear fogs.
Inside, the cabin features perforated leather for the seats, newly designed dashboard and door trims, blue cabin ambient lighting, sporty instrument cluster and a new keyFOB.
Aside from the visuals, Toyota touts its latest Hilux to be even more comfortable than before and this was proven to be so during a recent drive.
The cabin, with its new-found design cues, is a definite welcome that breathes a deep sense of refinement and attention to detail to something as rugged as a pickup-truck.
Traversing over rough patches of road highlighted the Rogue's ability to soak up the unpleasantries to keep the cabin properly damped. Cruising along on highways has now become a little more effortless with the added power.
According to Toyota, the second cabin mount has been hardened to better deal with vibrations and the damping force of its shock absorbers have been revised to achieve such an experience.
The Rogue seems to have a sharper steering behaviour thanks to its new Variable Flow Control power steering system when throwing this 2,120kg (kg) pickup around corners.
Together with the Rogue's new Automatic Limited Slip Differential, the "fun" factor quickly rises when pushing the limits - especially so with an additional 27PS and 50Nm.
Engaging Power Mode made the Rogue feel even more responsive and brutish for over-taking manoeuvres.
At this point, it must be noted that the braking system began to experience some fade due to the excessive and somewhat over-zealous behaviours that it had to endure. Overall, it did manage to hang in there.
Combining this with the Rogue's safety equipment that includes adaptive cruise control, pre-collision system and panoramic view monitor to name a few brings about a serious sense of security when behind the wheel.
The resulting impression after having such an experience behind the wheel of the Rogue left not only a confidence-inspiring aftertaste but also the uncanny disbelief of a comfort-oriented cabin - the perfect combination to call this "home" all-day, any-day while out on the road.
