Europe’s 2021 Toyota Hilux Improves On A Winning Formula

Toyota has unveiled the facelifted 2021 Hilux simultaneously in Asia, Australia and Europe earlier today.

We’ve already talked about the updated pickup truck for southeast Asia and Australia so let’s now focus on the European-spec Hilux facelift. From a styling perspective, the 2021 Hilux sold in Europe looks identical with the model from other markets.

The truck gets a redesigned front end featuring a new three-dimensional grille, new headlights (available with LEDs), and a bold bumper. While the side profile remains largely the same, the 2021 Hilux does get new 18-inch alloys finished in black, as well as three new exterior colors: Emotional Red II, Dark Blue and Oxide Bronze metallic. At the back, the facelifted Toyota Hilux gains new LED taillights, a bumper with more chrome on it, and new ‘Hilux’ lettering on the tailgate.

Inside, the 2021 Toyota Hilux treats the driver with a new combimeter design and a new 8-inch infotainment screen integrated into the center console. The interface can be controlled via the touchscreen as well newly-added buttons and dials. Toyota claims the multimedia system features faster software and screen response, and incorporates both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

The equipment list has been updated as well and now includes, depending on the trim level, smart entry and push-button start, satellite navigation, automatic air-conditioning, front and rear parking sensors, and a 9-speaker JBL Premium Sound System incorporating an 800W 8-channel amplifier and CLARi-Fi technology. New accessories offered by Toyota include a resin sports bar, an electric aluminum roll cover, tailgate locking, a hardtop and a 12v deck-mounted power supply.

New 2.8L Diesel Brings More Power And Torque, On-Road Comfort Gets Improved

Under the bonnet, the facelifted Toyota Hilux features a new 2.8-liter four-cylinder turbo diesel engine replacing the previously available 2.4-liter unit. The new power plant delivers 204 PS (201 HP) and 500 Nm (369 lb-ft) of torque, which represent big gains over the previous version – 54 PS (53 HP) and 100 Nm (74 lb-ft), respectively. Transmissions choices include a six-speed manual or a six-speed auto, available with 2WD or 4WD.

The added power and torque make the 2021 Hilux quicker: 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) now takes 10 seconds dead – 2.8 seconds faster than the outgoing model. As for fuel economy, preliminary figures are 7.8 l/100 km (36.2 mpg UK / 30.1 mpg US), with CO2 emissions of 204 g/km.

Toyota claims on-road comfort has been improved via upgrades to the suspension (front and rear shock absorber tuning, improved leaf spring design and new bushing), as well as the power steering. Hilux 2WD models also gain a new electronic function replicating the effect of a mechanical LSD to improve off-road capability.

Other off-road upgrades include the lowering of the engine speed at idle from 850 to 680 rpm, a tuned accelerator response for greater driver control, an updated VSC system, and a new tyre angle monitor. Additionally, the Hilux’s 1 tonne (2,204 lbs) payload and 3.5-tonne (7,716 lbs) capability has now been expanded to all 4WD models.

The 2021 Hilux will be offered in Europe in Single Cab, Extra Cab and Double Cab body styles. The latter two can be had in the range-topping Invincible grade (Invincible X in the UK), which brings enhanced specification and exclusive styling details like a bespoke front grille and bumper, skid plate, over fender, door handles, wheel and tailgate designs.

Sales of the 2021 Hilux begin in July in Eastern Europe, October in Western Europe, and November in the UK.