It’s official, folks. The Toyota Hilux GR-Sport limited edition is confirmed for South Africa.
Only 535 units will go on sale and they’ll likely go fast.
The Hilux GR-Sport is set to arrive locally in June 2019.
As standard you’ll get the sporty styling and a suspension setup designed specifically for fast gravel tracks. Engine wise it remains exactly the same, with Toyota’s 2.8-litre turbocharged diesel sending power to all four wheels via a six-speed automatic transmission.
The exterior draws a lot of inspiration from the Gazoo Racing team’s well-known livery. Other additions include a black bulbar, running boards and 17-inch alloy wheels.
On the inside there’s a rather nice plaque showcasing the number of the car, red stitching, floor mats and a starter button.
Local pricing will be released closer to the launch.
That Brazilian-spec variant features what Toyota describes as “sporty” styling and a “specially configured” suspension system for fast gravel tracks. The engine – in this case the brand’s familiar 2,8-litre turbodiesel linked to all four wheels via a six-speed automatic transmission – is unchanged.
The suspension updates include hardened front springs and the addition of double-tube dampers. The latter work together with “specifically selected” valves to result in a “tailored damping curve to enhance driver control” and “increase confidence” during high-speed driving on gravel roads.
Exterior styling cues include extensive use of Gazoo Racing’s signature white, black and red hues (main paint colours, meanwhile, include Pearly White, Black Mica and Metallic Red), plus the addition of “Toyota” lettering on the grille, a black bar styling bar and bold runner boards. The Hilux GR Sport runs on 17-inch alloys wrapped in 265/65 all-terrain rubber.
Inside, you’ll find perforated leather with red stitching, as well as various Gazoo Racing details, including a start button, GR-brand floor mats, a numbered interior plate and the GR logo on the front headrests.
Expect local specifications (and, of course, pricing) to become available closer to the launch in June…