Toyota reveals new engines for Hilux

A powerful new range of diesel engines and styling enhancements are set to boost the popularity of the latest generation Toyota Hilux. The changes will ensure the Hilux remains a top selling pick-up across Europe, offering strong customer appeal in both the leisure and utility vehicle markets.

The new engines include a high performance, high torque 169bhp (171 DIN hp) 3.0-litre D-4D diesel which will help the Hilux compete in the growing leisure pick-up segment of the market. This unit, derived from the Toyota Land Cruiser, will give the Hilux a superb power to weight ratio and outstanding performance and driving characteristics

At the same time the current 2.5-litre D-4D diesel engine has been upgraded to develop 118bhp (120 DIN hp), an eight per cent increase on the current unit, and outstanding torque of 325Nm.

Both new engines comply with Euro IV emissions regulations and together offer Hilux customers an excellent balance of driving pleasure, low fuel consumption and low emissions. They will be available to UK customers from January 2007.

The appeal of the Toyota Hilux is further enhanced by exterior styling changes which give the vehicle a more distinctive look and, for the 3.0-litre D-4D model, high-tech Optitron instrumentation and a multi-info display.

NEW 3.0-litre D-4D

The introduction of a high performance 3.0-litre D-4D diesel engine will place the Toyota Hilux at the heart of the leisure pick-up market – with an excellent power to weight ratio and outstanding dynamic performance.

The 3.0-litre D-4D develops 169bhp (171 DIN hp) and 343Nm of torque across a range from 1,400 to 3,250rpm, making it ideal for customers looking for performance and extra driving pleasure, both on and off-road.

There will be a choice of transmissions: five-speed manual or four-speed automatic. The engine will be available exclusively with the high specification Double Cab, 4x4 body style.

The 3.0-litre D-4D is the latest derivative of the renowned diesel engine featured in the Toyota Land Cruiser range. It uses second-generation common-rail technology, smooth control of the turbocharger variable vanes and a swirl control system for maximum efficiency.

MORE POWERFUL 2.5-litre D-4D

The 2.5-litre D-4D engine remains at the core of the Toyota Hilux range and will continue to be available in 4x2 and 4x4 configurations and in Single Cab, Extra Cab and Double Cab body styles. The engine is available with a five-speed manual transmission.

The introduction of a high performance turbo-intercooler, and other developments in a programme of continuous improvement, result in power from the 2.5-litre D-4D engine being boosted by eight per cent to 118bhp (120 DIN hp).

At the same time the torque output from this engine grows dramatically to 325Nm, giving the 2.5-litre D-4D Hilux a strong balance between driving pleasure and low fuel consumption.

The addition of an intercooler and optimisation of the oxidisation catalytic converter ensures that the 2.5-litre D-4D is fully compliant with Euro IV emissions standards.

ENHANCED STYLING FEATURES

The appeal of the Hilux is further enhanced by styling changes to give a more rugged look. These include the addition of an air scoop on the bonnet to increase air-flow for the intercooler and front fog lamps on certain models, according to grade.

A more hi-tech, premium quality ambience is created with new, Optitron instrumentation exclusively for the 3.0-litre D-4D model, which also receives a multi-information display and, on automatic versions, a shift position indicator and cruise control.

Full UK equipment specifications, options and prices will be announced nearer the on-sale date.

WORLDWIDE SALES SUCCESS

The current Toyota Hilux, launched in Europe in late 2005, is the sixth generation of Toyota’s second best selling model worldwide: more than 12 million units have been built since the Hilux was first introduced in Japan in 1967.

The Hilux is one of three vehicles being developed on a global basis under Toyota’s IMV (Innovative International Multi-purpose Vehicle) project and represents 66 per cent of IMV volume (financial year 2005). It complements the Toyota SUV/off-road line-up, offering different body styles and a more rugged alternative to the world-renowned Land Cruiser and RAV4.

It has already proved a sales success, with global demand exceeding supply. This means numbers in Europe have had to be restricted to 23,000 units in 2006.