Toyota has officially revealed the 2023 HiLux GR Sport, a high-performance version of the ever-popular ute that delivers a Dakar-inspired experience similar to the Ford Ranger Raptor for a fraction of the price. For years, the most powerful avatar of the HiLux has eluded the Australian market, but that’s all about to change as the order books open with prices starting from $73,990 plus on-road costs.
The new flagship HiLux will be seen lurking in Australian showrooms from now in Glacier White, Frosted White, Silver Sky (Stunning Silver from late 2023), Eclipse Black and Feverish Red finishes, with Glacier White, Frosted White and Feverish Red able to be paired with a two-tone black roof.
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Needless to say, the specifications are delectable with GAZOO Racing, Toyota’s performance division making some important changes to the powertrain as well as the suspension.
The GR Sport has a beefier 2.8-litre engine, which along with the revised turbocharging and fuel-injection control, delivers a 10 per cent increase in power to 165kW and 550Nm. That’s still a long way off the flagship Ford Ranger Raptor (292kW and 583Nm) but for the price, it’s a suitable amount of grunt.
It’s not all about power when you’re out in the bush and the HiLux GR Sport also cops a more performance-centric approach, evidenced by the freshly tuned automatic gearbox which has been specially designed for a sportier driving experience.
The new model also shares a wider track with the Rogue model – extended by 140mm at the front, 155mm at the rear, and 15mm in ride height. This is thanks to redesigned wishbones and a reinforced rear axle for better cornering. Underneath you’ll find dedicated monotube shock absorbers with a higher damping force and heat-dissipation capacity, stiffer coil springs and an optimised front-rear suspension balance bringing reduced roll angle and increased steering response.
Only available with a double-cab body style, the GR Sport considerably dials up the presence of the HiLux with satin-black over-fenders and a bigger ‘GR’ grille with increased cooling.
The ute rides on 17-inch alloy wheels with all-terrain tyres, while the addition of a skid plate, rock rails and red rear recovery points to ramp up its off-road cred further.
Inside, it’s much sportier with red seatbelts, GR branding everywhere and aluminium pedals.
“HiLux GR Sport draws on the spirit of Toyota’s Dakar success as a hardcore 4WD that will appeal to customers seeking the quintessential off-road version of Australia’s best-selling vehicle,” said Sean Hanley, Toyota Australia vice president of sales, marketing and franchise operations.
“It has been designed to turn heads with aggressive in-your-face styling that’s reinforced by a healthy performance boost, enhanced high-speed handling and even better grip on dirt roads. Thanks to the extensive involvement of our local designers and engineers, HiLux GR Sport is a fun-to-drive vehicle that will bring new capabilities and excitement to the adventure lifestyles of Australian customers.”
The 2023 Toyota HiLux GR Sport is available to order now with a starting price $73,990 plus on-road costs in Australia. There are two options available; Premium Paint for $675 and Two-tone for $1000.
2023 Toyota HiLux GR Sport Specs
| Length (mm) | 5320 |
|---|---|
| Width (mm) | 2020 |
| Height (mm) | 1880 |
| Wheelbase (mm) | 3085 |
| Tracks Front (mm) | 1675 |
| Tracks Rear (mm) | 1705 |
| Approach Angle (degrees) | 30 |
| Departure Angle (degrees) | 26 |
| Engine Model Code | 1GD-FTV (Hi) |
| No. of Cyls & Arrangement | 4 cylinders, in-line |
| Valve Mechanism | DOHC 16-Valve |
| Bore x Stroke (mm) | 92 x 103.6 |
| Displacement (cm3) | 2755 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Max. Output | 165 kW/3000 rpm |
| Max. Torque | 550 Nm/2800 rpm |
| Brakes (Front) | Ventilated discs with 4-cylinder fixed calliper |
| Brakes (Back) | Ventilated discs with 1-cylinder floating calliper |
| Price: | TBA |
