- Toyota’s Hilux GR Sport redesign promises significant improvements over its predecessor.
- It refines off-road capability with upgraded suspension, bolder styling, and improved tech.
- Power will likely come from a 221-hp turbodiesel, though Toyota may offer a stronger hybrid.
Toyota’s current-generation Hilux has been a staple of transportation outside the United States for years now. Despite dating back to 2015—a lifetime in the fast-moving world of vehicle updates—it continues to sell exceptionally well, holding its own against far newer rivals. In Australia, for example, the Hilux was the third best-selling vehicle overall last year, trailing only the Ford Ranger and its RAV4 stablemate.
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Fortunately, a redesigned Hilux is just around the corner, promising vast improvements across the board. Yet, one question lingers more than most—will Toyota finally have a competitive answer to Ford’s Ranger Raptor?
The GR Sport: A Half-Step Toward a Raptor Rival
The current generation Toyota Hilux GR Sport
For context, Toyota currently sells a somewhat equivalent called the GR Sport. I say somewhat, as it was developed as a reactionary response to the Raptor rather than being a hardcore, off-road truck from the outset. To its credit, the GR Sport isn’t just a sticker package as it features a raft of changes over the standard truck.
More specifically, it gets a wider track, beefier KYB monotube shocks, and a mild power bump for its 2.8-liter turbodiesel inline-four, bringing output to 221 horsepower and an extra 15 kW/50 Nm over the standard truck. Nice upgrades, sure, but nowhere near the punch of Ford’s 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 (rated at 392 hp in Australia and 284 hp in Europe) or the capability of its high-end Fox suspension setup.
Adding to the mixed bag, the next Hilux GR Sport will continue riding on Toyota’s IMV ladder-frame platform, rather than upgrading to the newer TNGA-F architecture used in the Tacoma. That may sound like a letdown, but it’s not all bad news.
Brawny Looks
Starting with the styling, the truck’s slim new LED headlights and angular honeycomb grille are complemented by rugged front bash plates, flared front and rear fenders, and chunky cladding. Redesigned rock sliders and increased ground clearance help those wanting to navigate into rougher territory.
Inside, expect a completely redesigned cabin with more supportive seats and contrasting interior materials. Toyota may also borrow the Tacoma TRD Pro’s IsoDynamic shock-absorbing seats, which help cushion occupants on rough terrain.
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Tech goodies will include a 12.3-inch infotainment system with off-road camera modes, a digital instrument cluster, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and wireless charging. Toyota’s advanced Safety Sense suite of driver assists will also be included, ensuring the Hilux meets ANCAP’s (the down-under equivalent of the IIHS) stricter standards for autonomous emergency braking.
Sport in Name, Mild in Performance
If Toyota seriously wants the GR Sport to challenge the Raptor, powertrain improvements are non-negotiable, because 221 horsepower from a four-cylinder diesel isn’t going to cut it. Unfortunately, that’s likely what it’ll get.
The long-shot alternative? Whilst the standard truck will make do with a carry-over 48V mild hybrid 2.8-litre diesel four, the GR Sport could benefit from the Tacoma’s 2.4-litre i-Force Max hybrid powertrain that generates 326-horsepower and a thumping 465 pound-feet of torque. It’s not quite the near 400-odd ponies from Ford’s stable, but it’s a healthy upgrade, nonetheless.
On the suspension front, expect re-tuned springs and dampers designed more for technical off-roading than high-speed desert running.
Rivals and Reveal
In concept, Toyota positions the Hilux GR Sport against competitors like the Ineos Grenadier, Kia Tasman, Isuzu D-Max Blade, Nissan Navara Warrior, and Jeep Gladiator Mojave.
But while it’s shaping up to be a solid off-roader, it’s still not the Raptor killer some fans were hoping for. That said, we’ll have to wait for the official reveal in the coming months to see exactly what Toyota delivers.
Would you like to see a more performance-focused Hilux GR Sport? Drop your thoughts in the comments below.
