Toyota Hilux Off-Road Experience - Go Anywhere With This Pickup Truck

India is a rather small market for large lifestyle pickup trucks, and there aren't many options available for private customers. Toyota, a Japanese carmaker, introduced its well-known pickup truck Hilux last year in India in an effort to capture the lifestyle pickup market. The Toyota Hilux is a well-known vehicle throughout the world for its legendary toughness, excellent off-road performance, and dependability as a workhorse. This big, feature-packed vehicle is prepared to handle any terrain you dare throw at it. On an off-road circuit, we had the chance to experience this powerful pickup truck by navigating around several obstacles.

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Toyota Hilux Off-Road Setup

The Hilux utilizes the ladder-on-frame chassis, sharing the same IMV platform as the Fortuner and Innova. This chassis incorporates larger and wider longitudinal rails, contributing to enhanced stability. Notable features of the Hilux include an electronic differential lock, automatic limited slip differential, impressive torsional and bending rigidity, 4WD capability with options for 4 high and 4 low modes, downhill assist control, and automatic hill assist control. With such robust hardware in place, the Hilux is well-prepared to conquer any type of terrain.

Only a 2.8-liter diesel engine with a 6-speed MT gearbox and 201 bhp of output and 420 Nm of peak torque is offered with the Hilux. This engine can also be taken with an automatic gearbox, which increases peak torque to a whopping 500 Nm.

Toyota Hilux Off-Road Experience

Our off-road track began with both positive and negative inclines, and the Hilux effortlessly conquered the trail owing to its electronic limited-slip differential system. As we moved further, encountering a 360-degree turn with axle articulation, the Hilux maneuvered smoothly, aided by its traction control system ensuring optimal wheel traction. In this case, the combination of low-range grip, lots of power, and torque helps the driver.

We then proceeded to the steep incline, which the 500Nm beast easily ascended with an RPM of just under 2,000 RPM. The Hilux boasts a 29-degree approach angle a 26-degree departure angle. The Hilux's Downhill Assist Control (DAC) feature is helpful on the descent; simply turn it on, and the huge truck begins braking automatically on steep downhills. On the uphill the hill assist control helps the vehicle to provide stability and prevents it from rolling down.

During the axle articulation test, the Hilux showcased impressive performance thanks to its electronic traction control system and the utilization of a double wishbone front suspension, live rear axle combined with leaf-spring suspension. This combination enables enhanced axle articulation.

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Additionally, the Hilux has a water wading capacity of 700mm, which makes it easy to cross small rivers and waterways. The river bed rocks can be avoided thanks to the 220mm of ground clearance. Installing an aftermarket snorkel will give you the ability to take your Hilux into deeper waters.

Toyota Hilux Price & Rivals

The Toyota Hilux is offered in three variants, priced between Rs 30.40 lakh and Rs 37.90 lakh (ex-showroom). Its main competitor, the Isuzu D-Max V-Cross, is priced approximately Rs 10 lakh lower than the top-of-the-line Hilux variant. Despite the higher price tag, the Hilux justifies its value by providing superior off-road technology and a premium interior loaded with features.

Verdict

Although the Hilux drives well on the road, however, the steering may seem heavy, but it is nevertheless controllable given the vehicle's 2.3-ton weight as well as its power and torque output. As we turn our focus to the suspension system, we can see that it has been specially developed to handle off-road situations. The Hilux has a controlled and comfortable ride, easily handling rough terrain including ruts and uneven ground. While it absorbs imperfections of the ground, the suspension can occasionally be a little harsh and uncomfortable in certain situations.

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The Toyota Hilux is a powerful off-road vehicle that exhibits remarkable performance, dependability, and versatility. The Hilux excels at easily navigating a variety of terrains because of its strong engine, sturdy suspension, and an variety of off-road equipment. The Hilux shows to be a worthy friend that blends toughness with dependability, whether you're setting off on an adventurous off-road trip or simply trying to travel tough trails.

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