Toyota, in association with its local distributor Abdullah Abdulghani & Bros Co. (AAB), has launched the all new eighth generation Hilux pickup in Qatar.
Hilux has enjoyed a stellar reputation over the years in the region for its quality, durability and reliability. The new model is a complete redesign of one of the world’s best-known and best-loved pickups with numerous changes in response to customer demands and feedback .
Since the introduction of the first Hilux in 1968, over 16mn have been sold in more than 180 countries. The new Hilux, while improving on the model’s characteristic toughness and performance, redefines toughness by being more occupant-focused and providing a stress-free driving experience.
According to Hiroki Nakajima, Executive Chief engineer behind the Hilux (and also a Managing Officer of Toyota Motor Corporation): “Our entire development concept was centred on ‘redefining toughness’. We aimed to make the new Hilux ‘tougher’ based on a much broader interpretation of that word. The message we want to deliver to our customers is embodied in our slogan for the vehicle: A New Era for Pickup. Every Inch a Hilux”.
Setting a new benchmark for the pickup category, the new Hilux has features that provide SUV like comfort for a smooth ride.
The eighth-generation Hilux provides ride comfort that make long, tough drives less gruelling, a quiet cabin that allows communication in any conditions, and enhanced cruising range thanks to improved fuel efficiency.
Hilux is offered in the Middle East in single cab and double cab configurations, in both 2WD and 4WD. The 2016 Hilux is not only a tough vehicle, but an advanced pickup with stylish cues hitherto found only on SUVs.
It also offers a full line-up of wheel choices from sizes 15 to 17 inches, each featuring a unique design that is both fresh and sporty in either wheel cap or alloy. It is offered in 5 exciting colours – Super White 2, Silver ME, Gray ME, Attitude Black MC and White Pearl CS which is being introduced for the first time in the Hilux due to high demand from Middle East customers.
The new Hilux makes no compromises for being a pickup and even comes with a new, stylish smart key that includes fine details. The steering wheel - incorporating both tilt and telescope functionality - is thicker and the thumb rests enlarged to make any driving situation more comfortable. The shift lever has a shorter height and throw to mimic SUV vehicles while also allowing the driver to operate the vehicle with a more relaxed posture.
The cabin itself exudes a distinct sense of volume, depth and spaciousness. A consistent blue illumination is used throughout the cabin and into the meters, and a newly introduced Multi-Information Display (MID) incorporates a 3-dimensional message as well as advanced features such as ECO Judge / ECO Wallet to promote effective fuel consumption.
The tried-and-trusted TR petrol engine has been developed even further, simultaneously achieving increased fuel economy and high output. The 2.7-litre engine - producing 164hp and up to 245Nm - is mated to a 5-speed manual transmission and a 6-speed automatic transmission, and delivers 10% higher fuel efficiency compared with the current TR engine.
A newly developed 4-cylinder Turbo Diesel engine with 147hp and up to 400Nm of torque for the 6-speed manual and automatic transmission options stands out for its improved manageability of the low and medium speed ranges, realising unprecedented acceleration performance. The 2.4-litre diesel engine is also available with a 5-speed manual transmission which delivers 343Nm of torque.
The new Hilux also features a convenient Drive Mode Switch that allows the driver to select a preferred drive mode – ECO for optimum economy and POWER for enhanced acceleration. The ECO Mode reduces power consumption in relation to acceleration, heating and cooling, whilst also taking into consideration the environment, whereas the POWER Mode provides sharper acceleration response, ensuring a more agile drive on slopes and winding roads.
The all-new Hilux comes equipped with a vast array of safety features that highlight Toyota’s focus on occupant and pedestrian protection.
Toyota and AAB officials at the launch of the new Hilux in Qatar.
