The Australian automotive market is about to witness the arrival of the highly anticipated 2024 Toyota HiLux GR Sport off-road edition. This rugged and powerful vehicle is set to become the most expensive HiLux ever sold in Australia, making it a dream come true for enthusiasts and adventurers alike. Scheduled to hit showrooms in September 2023, the HiLux GR Sport comes with more power, all-terrain tires, and a suspension upgrade, making it a force to be reckoned with on any terrain.
Pricing and Specifications: The 2024 Toyota HiLux GR Sport is set to make its mark as the off-road flagship edition. The starting price for this beastly ute is $73,990 plus on-road costs, which is a thousand dollars less than the initial price guide provided to dealers. Despite this slight reduction, it will still surpass the previous record holders, the HiLux Rogue and the TRD 4000SL supercharged V6 of 2009, with price tags of $70,760 and $64,990 plus on-road costs, respectively. When on-road costs are factored in, the total price of the HiLux GR Sport is estimated to approach $80,000, making it a substantial investment for enthusiasts seeking unrivaled off-road capabilities.
Power and Performance: Under the hood, the 2024 Toyota HiLux GR Sport boasts an uprated 165kW and 550Nm version of the familiar 2.8-litre turbocharged four-cylinder diesel engine. The powertrain is paired with a retuned six-speed automatic transmission and part-time four-wheel drive, ensuring optimal performance and control during off-road escapades. It retains its impressive 3500kg braked tow rating, a testament to its towing prowess. Though exact payload capacity details are yet to be confirmed, dealers have been informed that the GR Sport is approximately 0.6 seconds quicker from 0-100km/h than the HiLux SR5, taking around 10 seconds to complete the sprint. While it might not match the four-second acceleration of the Ford Ranger Raptor twin-turbo petrol V6, the HiLux GR Sport focuses on delivering a balanced blend of power and off-road capabilities.
Design and Features: The HiLux GR Sport stands out with its muscular presence and rugged design elements. It shares a broad footprint with the HiLux Rogue, featuring tracks wider by 135mm at the front and 155mm at the rear compared to the HiLux SR5, along with an additional 15mm of ride height. To tackle rough terrains with ease, the GR Sport is equipped with new KYB monotube shock absorbers, retuned front coil and rear leaf spring tuning, 17-inch black wheels, and 265/65 R17 Bridgestone Dueler all-terrain tires. The removal of the rear sway bar further enhances wheel articulation, making it an off-road beast. Additionally, the brake calipers, finished in red, provide both style and functionality. With four pistons at the front and one at the rear, these calipers clamp 338x28mm front and 312x18mm rear discs, delivering superior stopping power.
Inside the cabin, the HiLux GR Sport offers a blend of comfort and sportiness. The GR-branded steering wheel with paddle shifters and a red center stripe adds a touch of racing spirit. The front sports seats feature leather-accented and suede trim with grey stitching, providing both support and luxury. Red seat belts, aluminum pedals, ‘Technical Mesh’ dashboard inlays, and a GR Sport gear selector further accentuate the sporty feel of the interior. To cater to all weather conditions, all-weather floor mats are also included, ensuring the cabin remains clean during adventurous journeys.
Infotainment and Safety: The HiLux GR Sport doesn’t compromise on modern features and safety. It includes a nine-speaker JBL sound system, an 8.0-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, LED headlights, dual-zone climate control, keyless entry/start, autonomous emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. These features ensure that drivers are connected, entertained, and safe throughout their journeys, whether on highways or off the beaten path.
Exterior and Color Options: With five exterior colors to choose from, including Glacier White, Frosted White, Stunning Silver, Eclipse Black, and Feverish Red, customers can personalize their HiLux GR Sport to suit their taste. Moreover, for those looking for an extra touch of style, a black roof is available as an option with Glacier White, Frosted White, and Feverish Red.
Conclusion: The 2024 Toyota HiLux GR Sport is set to make a grand entrance into the Australian market, raising the bar for off-road utes. With its powerful performance, rugged design, and a host of modern features, it is a compelling choice for those seeking the ultimate off-road experience. While its price tag positions it as the most expensive HiLux ever sold in Australia, the unmatched capabilities and driving pleasure it offers are sure to make it worth every penny for adventure enthusiasts.
FAQs:
- Is the 2024 Toyota HiLux GR Sport suitable for extreme off-road conditions? Absolutely! The HiLux GR Sport comes equipped with all-terrain tires, a suspension upgrade, and other off-road enhancements, making it well-suited for tackling extreme off-road conditions.
- How does the HiLux GR Sport compare to its competitors in terms of power? The HiLux GR Sport’s uprated 2.8-litre turbocharged four-cylinder diesel engine delivers 165kW and 550Nm of torque, providing formidable power that competes favorably with its rivals.
- Can I tow heavy loads with the HiLux GR Sport? Yes, the HiLux GR Sport retains its impressive braked tow rating of 3500kg, ensuring you can tow heavy loads with ease.
- What safety features does the HiLux GR Sport offer? The HiLux GR Sport comes with a range of safety features, including autonomous emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring, to enhance driver safety during all types of journeys.
- When will the 2024 Toyota HiLux GR Sport be available in showrooms? The HiLux GR Sport is expected to arrive in Australian showrooms in September 2023, so mark your calendars and get ready to experience the ultimate off-road adventure!
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