Tough as old boots
Not the most fashionable working 4x4, but Toyota's Hilux 4x4 is still the one to beat. Photos: Mark Harwood Stone It may have developed middle-aged spread, but Mark Harwood Stone finds Toyota's Hilux HL3 is still the one to beat as a farm workhorse and family transport.
NOW the sixth generation, Toyota’s Hilux still remains the one to beat after the model’s introduction back in 1972. Yes, it’s put on weight and the looks are definitely American; but it’s under the skin that counts, the Hilux being one of the most bulletproof commercial 4x4s on the market.
Externally, the new Hilux seems large when compared to earlier versions. The split grille, bumper extension, flushed lights and high waistline add significant depth, although the deep, wide-opening doors are advantageous. Where the girth works is in the load bed, the high sides increasing the Hilux’s ability to carry more awkwardly shaped loads. Interestingly, the HL3 specification 15in alloy rims and 255/70R15 Bridgestone Duelers in combination with the 212mm ride height and stiffened ladder chassis add significantly to the reaction when fully loaded and axle articulation when crossing uneven surfaces.
Inside, the pale grey velour upholstery is a negative, although the front seats are some of the most sensible and supportive you’ll find in a working 4x4. However, it’s the rear bench design that impresses. By rotating the squad to vertical, the backrest cantilevers downwards, leaving an almost flat, uninterrupted surface, adding to both payload and security. Function wise, each and every soft push button is large, easily identifiable, centrally located and simplistic in function, while the instrumentation is clear, concise and straightforward to view.
Although a 2.5-litre option is available, it’s the four-cylinder 3-litre turbo-diesel that’s the most practical. Pushing out 343Nm of torque and delivering an indicated 33.2mpg over 306 miles, the 80-litre tank gives the Hilux useful range combined with an acceptable consumption. Added to this is the flexibility of a reasonably weighted five-speed manual box along with a manual transfer lever, limited slip-diff with automatic disconnecting, disc brakes at all four corners, ABS and switchable stability control; and you have an extremely versatile 4x4 over which the driver has the fullest control.
Behind the wheel is where Toyota has succeeded in evolving the Hilux from a pure commercial into an all-round 4x4. Even before you start the engine, the feeling within the cab is that of a large, domestic 4x4, certainly not that of a commercial. Irrespective of the surface, the Hilux is relaxing to drive, manoeuvrable and responsive and noticeably less demanding than many others. Equally, when lightly loaded, via their suspension improvements, Toyota has been able to dial out a high degree of bounce, a trait that afflicts most pick-ups.
Unless a variety of restraints dictate the 2.5-litre, my personal advice is to opt for the 3.0-litre as tested. The increased power and torque more than outweighs the margin fuel deficit, while the larger engine’s all-round abilities far exceed the smaller unit’s supposed benefits. Similarly, unless the looks and accessories of the Invincible version are a must, the HL3 will serve any member of the farming community more than admirably as both a workhorse and family transport, placing outright ability over the dreaded lifestyle.
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