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A tough HiLux that appears to be the brand’s flagship GR Sport has been spotted testing camouflage in Thailand, setting the countdown clock for the model’s arrival in Australia, where it will meet the might of the Ford Ranger Raptor in the battle for in two. -cab dominance.
So what do we know so far about Toyota’s entry into the tough ute club, aside from the wider, tougher look we can see in these images published by kurdistan_automotive_blog_?
While the new model will be built in Thailand – where this test model was snapped – it will be covered in Australian fingerprints, with Toyota’s design and engineering centers in Melbourne, just like the special editions that came before. here.
That’s enough to set it apart from the GR-S models we’ve already seen launched around the world, including special editions in places like Europe, Thailand and the Phillipines.
The most likely candidate as the base car for Australia – and the one we really want – is the South African version of the GR-S HiLux, which is also the version that has received a power boost as well as new equipment.
While the HiLux’s engine is unchanged, the South African GR-S has been tuned up to produce more power and torque, with 165kW and 550Nm on offer from its 2.8-litre turbo-diesel power plant.
That’s enough to match the outgoing Ford Ranger Raptor, but will still be overshadowed by the new model, which is equipped with a new 3.0-litre twin-turbo V6 petrol EcoBoost powertrain that delivers a massive 292kW and 583Nm.
The new HiLux GR Sport also dials up performance and responsiveness, with new monotube shock absorbers and new front springs, with the brand promising “dedicated suspension enhancements that deliver a more rewarding driving experience, with increased control, responsiveness and grip feel.”
Another possibility is a combination of the GR-S ute’s engine improvements, along with the recently announced updates to the Rouge – a 140mm wider track front and rear, a 20mm boost in ground clearance, and a “overhauled” suspension set-up, with extended front stabilizer bar length and a new rear stabilizer bar – and specific off-road upgrades.
We expect to see the HiLux GR Sport touch down in Australia in 2023, where it will serve as something of a stand-in for the current-generation HiLux, which is due to be replaced in 2024 or 2025.
“In a further upgrade to the HiLux range, Toyota plans to launch a new apex off-road variant, which will replace the HiLux Rugged X. Details, including launch timing, will be announced in due course,” said the brand.
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