Toyota has updated its HiLux ute and Fortuner family SUV with a variety of new comfort and safety features.
These include fitting Toyota Connected Services as standard on all models to provide vital assistance in the event of a collision or if the vehicle is stolen with the system able to automatically generate an emergency call to Toyota’s 24/7 Emergency Call Centre and relay the location of the vehicle in the event of a collision that requires intervention, or if an airbag deploys.
New interior comfort and convenience features have also been added to the HiLux range, while the Fortuner is now safer for the whole family with the addition of more active safety features as standard.
Externally the high-profile roof-mounted antenna on HiLux has been replaced by a more sophisticated “shark fin” antenna on all models to help reduce the potential for damage.
HiLux SR5 variants now feature an upgraded front dual-zone climate control system, replacing the single-zone system of previous models. Fortuner models have also benefitted from additional upgrades with the GX variant now offering control of the instrument cluster illumination, GXL and Crusade versions gaining the new front dual-zone climate control system, and the flagship Crusade featuring a panoramic view monitor.
To further enhance active safety, blind spot monitor and rear cross-traffic alert have also been added to Crusade variants.
The HiLux is offered with the choice of three engines headlined by the 2.8-litre turbo-diesel four-cylinder engine which it shares with the Fortuner, developing 150kW of power and 500Nm of torque when coupled to the six-speed automatic transmission.
The 4×2 HiLux models can also be had with a 110kW/400Nm 2.4-litre turbo-diesel engine or 2.7-litre petrol four-cylinder which offers maximum outputs of 122kW and 245Nm. All 4×4 models feature a low-range transfer case for enhanced off-road ability, while all Fortuner grades and HiLux SR, SR5, Rogue and Rugged X variants also incorporate a rear differential lock as standard.
Maximum braked towing capacity is rated at an industry-leading 3500kg on HiLux and 3100kg on Fortuner.
Toyota Australia Vice President Sales, Marketing and Franchise Operations Sean Hanley said the upgrades for HiLux and Fortuner demonstrated Toyota’s commitment to always continuing to improve its vehicles for the benefit of customers.
“It’s no secret that Australians love the HiLux, with its rugged reliability, incredible utility and performance on and off the road,” Hanley said.
“Likewise, the Fortuner’s towing capacity, capability in the rough stuff and seating for seven means no campsite is too hard to reach.”