The Toyota Hilux, which made its debut in mid-2015, is still going strong in its eighth generation. The GR Sport treatment is making a return for this go-anywhere truck, following its initial launch in early 2022. This new version brings a mix of cosmetic and mechanical upgrades to the table. It’s worth noting that while it’s a lower-tier GR Sport variant, it doesn’t offer any extra power under the hood.
Much like its predecessor, the Hilux GR Sport II is available exclusively as a double cab model. One of the key changes is the suspension lift, which has increased the pickup’s ride height by 20 millimeters (0.8 inches). Additionally, the front and rear tracks have been widened by 140 mm (5.5 in) and 150 mm (5.9 in), respectively. It now rolls on new 17-inch lightweight wheels equipped with all-terrain tires. These modifications should make the truck slightly more capable off the beaten path, with the approach angle now at 30 degrees, up from 29.
Under the skin, Toyota has introduced new monotube dampers, enhancing the truck’s responsiveness on rough terrain. Moreover, the Hilux GR Sport II benefits from improved stopping power, thanks to larger front disc brakes. The traditional rear drum brakes have been replaced with discs. Minor aerodynamic tweaks have been made, including the addition of new air curtains at the front and a sleeker sport bar and bed cover at the rear.
To distinguish it from the regular Hilux models, Toyota has given the GR Sport II a mesh grille, red brake calipers, and various dark accents. This red and black theme extends to the interior, where GR logos are featured on the front headrests, and the seatbelts are finished in red. An eight-inch infotainment system is standard, complete with built-in navigation. It also offers support for both wired and wireless Apple CarPlay, while Android Auto is available through a wired connection.
Despite these updates, there have been no changes under the hood. The turbodiesel 2.8-liter engine still produces 201 horsepower and 369 pound-feet (500 Newton-meters) of torque, transmitted through a six-speed automatic transmission. In some markets, Toyota offers a more potent Hilux GR Sport with 221 hp and 406 lb-ft (550 Nm) of torque.
Toyota UK is planning to kick off sales of the Hilux GR Sport II early next year, with deliveries scheduled for later in 2024.
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