From the white cliffs of Dover to the beaches of Melbourne, the Toyota Hilux has become a pickup truck of legend for everyplace but the United States. What we would consider a midsize pickup here in America is more or less the standard for the rest of the world, most notable for a long line of legendarily reliable diesel engines. Knowing Toyota and its dedication to the Hilux name, the all-new 2016 model will prove to be more of the same.
For the eighth generation of the Toyota Hilux, engineers spoke directly with owners to found out what worked, what didn’t, and what could be better. Owners wanted a more rugged truck that also helped make their working lives easier, so Toyota focused on making a more occupant-centric vehicle that would reduce the stress of day-to-day life.
To improve ride quality and comfort, Toyota improved the leaf springs and shocks to provide a smoother ride over rough terrain. There will also be three different suspension configurations available to choose from; a standard suspension that balances comfort with capability, a heavy-duty model for lugging big loads, and a comfort setup designed around paved road driving.
The engineering team traveled all over the world to experience the different conditions and climates their truck had to endure. One thing many drivers had in common was the desire for a quieter cabin, so the new Hilux has reduced engine noise, despite efforts to increase cruising range. Engine options will include an all-new 160 horsepower 2.4-liter turbodiesel, a 164 horsepower 2.7-liter gas engine, and a 278 horsepower 4.0-liter gasoline V6. The four-cylinder engines are offered with a six-speed manual while the V6 comes paired with a six-speed automatic.
The Toyota Hilux has been on sale around the world for about a year now, and with Tacoma sales booming right now, the automaker has no reason to bring it to the U.S. The 2.4-liter turbodiesel, however, could prove a good fit for the U.S., once the whole Volkswagen cheating fiasco blows over.