Photo: Toyota
After introducing the Hilux TRD Sportivo in Bangkok two years ago, Toyota is at it again with the Hilux GR Sport. But how much of this mid-size pickup truck is the reliable workhorse we all know and love and how much comes courtesy of Gazoo Racing?
Introduced at the Sao Paulo International Motor Show in Brazil, the Hilux GR Sport is the first Gazoo Racing project based on a commercial vehicle, as well as the first Gazoo Racing project for Latin America. Manufactured in Zarate, Argentina, the tricked-out truck is based on the range-topping Hilux SRX trim level.
The list of modifications starts with the suspension, which has been tweaked with monotube dampers and stiffer springs. The 17-inch aluminum-alloy wheels are wrapped in all-terrain tires, and based on the ground clearance of the Hilux GR Sport, this pickup has no problems tackling the roughest terrain imaginable.
The 1GD-FTV turbo diesel provides the suck-squeeze-bang-blow, 177 horsepower and 450 Nm of torque, to all four wheels by means of a six-speed automatic transmission. Next to the gear lever, you’ll find a serialized plaque and two buttons that engage Eco Mode or Power Mode.
In keeping with the Waku Doki thought of Toyota in Japan, the Hilux GR Sport comes with a black hood and bi-color decals, paying tribute to the motorsport division of Toyota. The honeycomb grille up front is complemented by a matte-finish bumper extension, and GR badging can be found on the front doors and the tailgate.
Side steps with aluminum inserts complete the look, along with mud flaps and LED fog lights with black-and-red surrounds. All in all, not bad for a product developed by Gazoo Racing, but somewhat underwhelming too because there’s nothing exciting to offer in terms of internal combustion.
The closest rival the Hilux GR Sport has in Latin America is the Ranger Wildtrak from the Ford Motor Company, which serves as the next best pickup after the Raptor arrives at dealerships.
The list of modifications starts with the suspension, which has been tweaked with monotube dampers and stiffer springs. The 17-inch aluminum-alloy wheels are wrapped in all-terrain tires, and based on the ground clearance of the Hilux GR Sport, this pickup has no problems tackling the roughest terrain imaginable.
The 1GD-FTV turbo diesel provides the suck-squeeze-bang-blow, 177 horsepower and 450 Nm of torque, to all four wheels by means of a six-speed automatic transmission. Next to the gear lever, you’ll find a serialized plaque and two buttons that engage Eco Mode or Power Mode.
In keeping with the Waku Doki thought of Toyota in Japan, the Hilux GR Sport comes with a black hood and bi-color decals, paying tribute to the motorsport division of Toyota. The honeycomb grille up front is complemented by a matte-finish bumper extension, and GR badging can be found on the front doors and the tailgate.
Side steps with aluminum inserts complete the look, along with mud flaps and LED fog lights with black-and-red surrounds. All in all, not bad for a product developed by Gazoo Racing, but somewhat underwhelming too because there’s nothing exciting to offer in terms of internal combustion.
The closest rival the Hilux GR Sport has in Latin America is the Ranger Wildtrak from the Ford Motor Company, which serves as the next best pickup after the Raptor arrives at dealerships.
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