New Toyota Hilux Honoured

What is all this then? The new Toyota Hilux has taken top honours in the 'pick-up' category of the Total 4x4 Awards. This rugged workhorse is available in three versatile body styles: single, extra, and double-cab. Cargo capacities range from 1m3 to 1.5m3. Drivers also choose one of two diesel engines, the 2.5-litre 144bhp trim or the 3.0-litre 171bhp. Both have plenty of torque and, depending on body style, average between 32.8 and 38.7mpg.

Alan Kidd, Editor of Total 4x4 magazine said, “Hilux has always stood out in what is a very fiercely fought category. It's incredibly capable in every area and comes at a very appealing price. The updates Toyota has made to it are subtle, but they're enough to nudge it back in front of the pack.

In particular, its interior is much more modern and - without sacrificing anything in the way of refinement - the vehicle is tougher than ever. There's a lot of talent in the pick-up market, but once again Hilux is the one to beat.”

The new Toyota Hilux has further strengths to irritate its competitors. These include its legendary build quality and pleasing equipment specification. Even basic models have: air- conditioning, electric heated mirrors, power steering, and an alarm. Options on high-spec versions include satellite navigation and parking sensors. Mind you, the latter would hardly have been necessary for its greatest adventure. The Hilux was the first car to reach both the magnetic north and south poles. Excellent, it should be able to handle Salisbury then.

By Stephen Turvil, motoring.co.uk

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