TOKYO: The much-anticipated Toyota HiLux has been photographed without camouflage. The images have leaked across several social media pages, giving a clearer impression of how the eighth-generation model will present inside and out. The first impression is a more dynamic and sculpted appearance, courtesy of a new car-like front grille with LED headlights and muscular wheel arches front and rear.
The images come as more technical details of the new HiLux emerge, including a raft of new downsized diesel engines and the omission of Toyota’s longstanding 4.0-litre V6 petrol powertrain.
Speculation suggests that Toyota will ditch its existing 3.0-litre D4D diesel engine for a more efficient 2.8-litre four-cylinder unit. The down-sized engine, which harks back to the 2.8-litre naturally-aspirated diesel found in older HiLuxes, will be mated to the choice of a new six-speed manual or six-speed automatic.
The manual version is said to produce 132kW and 420Nm, while the automatic will produce 450Nm of torque.
In addition, it is rumoured that Toyota will offer an entry level turbo diesel in the form of a 2.4-litre four-cylinder unit that produces 112kW and 343Nm in five-speed manual guise, or 125kW and 400Nm with the optional six-speed automatic.
The thirsty 4.0-litre V6 of the current HiLux will likely be dropped, with the Japanese car maker opting for a 2.7-litre petrol four-cylinder available with manual or automatic transmissions.
Inside, the photos show an overhauled dashboard, with a prominent centre media screen sitting atop the centre fascia.
Underneath, the HiLux will likely join the upcoming Nissan Navara NP300 with a new rear coil spring arrangement which ensures a more compliant ride than traditional leaf-sprung offerings.
