The long-awaited new Toyota Hilux GR-Sport has finally hit the market in South Africa, boasting an increase in power and torque! Here’s how much it costs…

The Toyota Hilux GR-Sport is finally here, inspired by the Japanese firm’s Dakar Rally success under the Gazoo Racing banner. What you’re looking at is the torquiest series-produced Hilux ever offered in South Africa.

Yes, the 2.8-litre, 4-cylinder turbodiesel engine used in this version of the Prospecton-built Hilux has been suitably massaged (via a “special ECU calibration”) to liberate some extra power and torque (unlike the similarly new Corolla Cross GR-Sport, which makes do with that model’s standard outputs). While the standard version of the Hilux’s 2.8-litrepowertrain offers 150 kW and 500 Nm, the GR-Sport’s peak outputs sit at 165 kW and 550 Nm. Top speed remains unchanged at 175 kph, while Toyota doesn’t list a 0-100 kph time (but does say it improves by 0.65 seconds).

Available exclusively in the double-cab body style, the Hilux GR-Sport (or Hilux GR-S, for short) ships standard with the Japanese firm’s 6-speed automatic transmission and 4×4. With a starting price of R865 400, it’s interestingly not the most expensive derivative in the range, with the three RS versions priced higher (topping out at R917 900). For the record, the GR-Sport price represents a R40 500 premium over the Legend model.

So, besides the extra oomph, what goes into the making of a Hilux GR-Sport? Well, there’s a model-specific GR-Sport grille painted in high-gloss black and fitted with bold “Toyota” lettering. In addition, this model rides on 17-inch alloy wheels (as opposed to the 18-inch items used by the Legend) wrapped in taller-profile 265/65 R17 rubber to “offer enhanced off-road performance”. Toyota South Africa Motors furthermore says the “GR-inspired suspension” in the form ofnew monotube shock absorbers and stiffer coil springs promises “improved off-road handling and comfort”.

The new Hilux GR-Sport is available in 4 exterior paint colours.

Of course, there are plenty of GR logos scattered around the exterior (on the grille, flanks, rear and the styling bar) along with the requisite decals, which we believe are optional. The bumpers are based on the Raider design (rather than Legend) andincludewiderblack overfenders with contrasting inserts. Black side-mirror caps, black door handles, black side steps and the aforementionedstyling bar are all also included.

Inside, you’ll find items such as red facia trim, red contrasting stitching, GR graphics for the model-specific instrument cluster, a GR-branded start button, GR-branded carpets and a Gazoo Racing plaque behind the gear lever. The seats are trimmed in a combination of leather and Alcantara, while the front headrests boast GR logos. There’s also a bespoke leather-trimmed steering wheel and aluminium pedals with rubber inserts. Carbon-fibre trim replaces the brushed finish familiar from Legend models.

From what we can tell, atonneau cover also comes standard, along with rubberising for the load bay. The Hilux GR-Sport is available in a choice of 4 exterior paint colours: Glacier White, Arizona Red, Attitude Black and Graphite Grey Metallic.

How much does the new Toyota Hilux GR-Sport cost in South Africa?

Toyota Hilux GR-Sport – R865 400

A 3-year/100 000 km warranty and a 9-service/90 000 km service plan are included in the purchase price.

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