Toyota has released a new variant of the Hilux GR Sport for 2023 that will come to Latin America with Dakar-inspired styling, a powerful diesel engine and a host of chassis modifications to improve its handling and off-road capabilities.
This is the fourth different GR Sport version of the Toyota Hilux. The resulting GR Sport is closer to the Nissan Navara Pro-4X Warrior in terms of power and market positioning.
The Toyota Hilux Gr Sport 2023 for Latin America
First, the exterior of the Hilux GR Sport is without a doubt the most rugged-looking Hilux to come out of the factory. The pick up vanwhich is exclusively available with a crew cab body, is distinguished by the custom body kit, inspired by the extreme styling of the rally car competing in the Dakar.
The highlight for sure are the new satin black fender extensions, which are wider than on other models. Also a redesigned front bumper with sculpted air intakes, a black-finished grille and an aluminum-style skid plate.
The truck sports GR sport badging, rock rails, red-painted rear recovery points, and a new set of 17-inch black alloy wheels with off-road tires. The Japanese automaker says the new parts have been wind tunnel tested for aerodynamic efficiency, but don’t expect the truck to earn any aerodynamic efficiency titles.
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The interior is less inspiring than the exterior, as the eighth-generation Hilux began to show its age almost eight years after its original debut. The GR Sport trim has leather upholstery, the brand Gazoo Racing on the steering wheel and on the headrests, red seatbelts and sports pedals, while retaining the same touchscreen for infotainment.
Powertrain and release date
There are no news under the hood for the Latin American model of the truck. keeping the 2.8-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine which now delivers 224 hp and 550 Nm of torque. This is associated with a six-speed automatic transmission and is transmitted to all four wheels with the help of Toyota’s 4WD system.
However, the power of the Hilux Gr Sport is nowhere near the 392 hp (292 kW / 397 PS) of the 3.0-liter V6 found in the Ford Ranger Raptor.
The increase in production is coupled with a number of chassis upgrades. The tracks were widened by 140 mm (5.5 in) at the front and 155 mm (6.1 in) at the rear. The beefed-up suspension received new monotube shocks with increased damping force and heat dissipation capabilities, stiffer coil springs, redesigned forks, and a strengthened rear axle.
These adjustments would improve handling and off-road prowess without sacrificing ride comfort. The Japanese have not announced the ground clearance that is expected to increase compared to the lesser versions of the Hilux. Last but not least, the model has larger ventilated discs, with red brake calipers.
The manufacturer anticipates the launch of the new Hilux GR-Sport in Latin America for the first half of 2023. Its production would take place at the plant in Zárate, Argentina, so its debut in the country could take place at any time of the year. Pricing is unknown, but given the scope of the upgrades it would command a premium over the $47,324 Hilux Rogue. Although it remains to be seen.
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