The Toyota Hilux range will come with another, more enhanced, range-topping model when the new GR Sport II launches later in 2024.
The Toyota Hilux is already one of the best pickup trucks on the market, but it doesn’t compete with the top-end, hyper lifestyle models such as the Ford Ranger Raptor. The GR Sport II aims to close that gap a little.
It is the second GR Sport-badged Hilux to be launched, and it follows a similar pattern to the first one, with visual and performance-based enhancements that aim to appeal to those that want their truck to be more than just a heavy-duty tool.
Visual upgrades
The Toyota Hilux GR Sport II gets a selection of visual additions, both inside and out, some more subtle than others. You might notice the black 17-inch alloys, but will have to look a little closer to spot the red brake callipers and coil springs and dampers. The brakes are also upgraded to more lightweight versions, too, while the rear drum brakes have been replaced with discs.
It also gets black details aplenty, including the front grille, side steps, mirrors, door handles sport bar and rear bumper. There is also a silver under-run at the front and there are some GR Sport badges to make clear what version you are in.
Inside, the theme is black, once again, with a couple of red details here and there, namely on the seatbelts, while paddle shifters and aluminium pedals are added too.
More notable are the sport seats, with their suede and leather upholstery, silver stitching and GR Sport logo. Said logo is also on the information display.
Technical upgrades
As well as the enhanced brakes, the Toyota Hilux GR Sport II also gets an improved approach angle and increased ground clearance. This is thanks to the raised ride height, which has gone up by 20mm. The front and rear tracks have also been widened by 140mm and 150mm respectively.
There is also a new ‘air curtain’ at the front, which is said to boost aerodynamics and reduce drag. This includes a new bumper and fog lamp surrounds.
The dampers are now monotube affairs, rather than the twin-tube versions from before, which are said to provide a faster response over tough ground.
Familiar engine
One thing that is very much unchanged is the engine. The GR Sport II gets the same 204hp 2.8-litre diesel engine that sits in the higher-end versions of the Hilux.
The payload and performance is therefore pretty much unchanged too. It is still capable of towing 3,500kg of braked trailer and can carry 1,000kg – both far better than the Ranger Raptor.
There is no finalised information on how much the new Toyota Hilux GR Sport costs, with pricing expected closer to its on-sale date in the second half of 2024.
