The Toyota HiLux is one of the most popular and reliable pickup trucks in the world, with a reputation for toughness and durability that has earned it many loyal fans. But what if you want a HiLux that is not only tough but also sporty, agile, and fun to drive? Enter the 2023 Toyota HiLux GR Sport, a new variant that combines rally-inspired performance and style with the proven capabilities of the HiLux.
The 2023 Toyota Hilux GR Sport is the first model to be developed by Toyota Gazoo Racing (TGR), the motorsport division of Toyota that is responsible for creating high-performance vehicles such as the GR Yaris, GR Corolla, and GR Supra. The HiLux GR Sport draws inspiration from the TGR Hilux that has won the Dakar Rally three times in a row, in 2019, 2022, and 2023. The Dakar Rally is one of the most grueling and challenging off-road races in the world, where competitors have to endure harsh terrain, extreme weather, and unpredictable situations.
The HiLux GR Sport aims to capture some of the spirit and performance of the Dakar-winning Hilux while also offering a more refined and comfortable ride for everyday use. The HiLux GR Sport is based on the facelifted eighth-generation HiLux that was launched in 2020, but it features several enhancements and upgrades that make it stand out from the rest of the lineup.
What’s new for the 2023 Toyota HiLux GR Sport?
The most noticeable change for the 2023 Toyota Hilux GR Sport is the exterior design, which features a distinctive front grille with a large TGR logo, a black hood scoop, LED headlights with black bezels, and a black bumper with red accents. The side profile showcases black fender flares, black side steps, black door handles, and black mirror caps. The rear end features a black tailgate with a TGR badge, a black bumper with red accents, and LED taillights with black bezels. The HiLux GR Sport also comes with exclusive 18-inch alloy wheels with all-terrain tires and red brake calipers.
The interior of the 2023 Toyota HiLux GR Sport also reflects its sporty character, with black leather seats with red stitching and TGR logos, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with red stitching and paddle shifters, a leather-wrapped gear knob with red stitching, and a black dashboard with red accents. The HiLux GR Sport also features a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, an 8-inch digital instrument cluster with TGR graphics, a JBL premium sound system with nine speakers, dual-zone automatic climate control, wireless charging, keyless entry and start, and a power-adjustable driver’s seat.
The 2023 Toyota HiLux GR Sport also boasts improved performance and handling, thanks to a more powerful engine and a revised suspension system. The engine is a 2.8-liter four-cylinder turbo-diesel that produces 165 kW (221 hp) at 3000 rpm and 550 Nm (406 lb-ft) of torque at 2800 rpm. This represents a 10 percent increase in both power and torque compared to the standard HiLux. The engine is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission that has been tuned for sportier shifting and an expanded lock-up range. The HiLux GR Sport also features a switchable four-wheel-drive system with low-range gearing and a rear differential lock.
The suspension system of the 2023 Toyota HiLux GR Sport has been upgraded with stiffer springs and dampers, as well as thicker stabilizer bars. These changes aim to reduce body roll and improve cornering stability while also maintaining ride comfort and off-road capability. The HiLux GR Sport also features an electronic power steering system that has been recalibrated for a more responsive steering feel.