Toyota HiLux GR Sport 2023 Review

Toyota HiLux GR Sport – I recently went to the launch of the Toyota HiLux GR Sport 4wd Ute.

I already had a few chats about the new model adds to the HiLux range and written a few articles, so today I want to chat about how it drives.

There are three things that you immediately notice.

The first are the external changes, wider track, lifted suspension, better approach angles etc.

These second is that once you hop in and drive, the tightness of the suspension. It soaks up the little road bumps while feeling more in tune with road conditions. It also has more articulation and rebound dampening.

The third is the engine. That’s something you feel.

The extra power and torque, some 10% improvement, is immediately felt. Its how the HiLux should be. More responsive, more engaging more effective.

I drove the GR Sport over forest trails, rutted tracks and a specialised 4WD track run by the Canobolas 4WD Club. Throughout it all the GR Sport made it all look effortless.

Priced from a touch under $74.000 plus the usual costs the GR Sport is the best HiLux built so far.

This is a Motoring Minute

I’m Rob Fraser

Everything you need to know about the Toyota HiLux GR Sport, and more driving impressions, can be FOUND HERE

TO LISTEN TO THE HILUX GR SPORT RADIO REVIEW, CLICK BELOW

What is good?

4WD and towing ability
Engine upgrades to power and torque
Improved ride and handling and increased ground clearance

What is not so good?

Interior is dated.
No wireless Apple CarPlay
Wheels and tyres look small in the wheel arches

Some more HiLux articles

Also look at:

Dual Cab 4WD Utes are popular. There are a few on the market and everyone is aiming upmarket

Buyers could look at Ford Ranger Wildtrak, Isuzu D-Max X-Terrain, Nissan Navara PRO 4X Warrior, Mazda BT-50 Thunder.

Toyota HiLux
Model	HiLux GR Sport
Model Price	$73,990 MLP*
Engine	2.8L 4 Cyl Turbo Diesel Euro 5
Drivetrain	6 Sp Sports AT Dual range 4WD
Power	165kW @ 3,000rpm
Torque	550Nm @ 1600-2800rpm
Safety	Five star ANCAP (tested July 2019)
0-100kmh / Top Speed	TBA / 175km/h
CO2 Emissions	213 g/km
Economy ADR	8.1L/100km / 80L capacity
Economy on test	N/A
Max Range	1000km plus.
Servicing	6Mth / 10,000km Capped Price
Warranty	5yr/ Unlimited km
Road side Assist	5Yr. conditional roadside assist

*MLP Includes GST and LCT but excluding statutory charges, dealer costs and dealer delivery. See your dealer for RDAP. Does not include price of options. Some features mentioned in the article are options. RDAP means Recommended Drive Away Price (without options but including all other charges)

Overall Rating	86/100
Behind the Wheel	8
Comfort	9
Equipment	8
Performance	9
Ride and Handling	9
Practicality	8
Fit for Purpose	9
AWD/Towing Capability*	10 (4WD 5/5 Towing 5/5 )
Technology/connectivity	8
Value for Money	8

*Towing and AWD capability is measured against similar vehicles in the same class.

Dimensions GR Sport
Overall Length	5320mm
Wheelbase	3085mm
Width	2020mm
Height	1880mm
Wheels	17×7.0 Alloy
Tyres	265/65 R17 Bridgestone Dueller AT
Spare Tyre	Full size alloy with tyre as above
Max ground clearance	Up to 265mm
Wading Depth	800mm
Approach	30 degrees
Rampover	26 degrees
Departure angle	23 degrees
Steering type	Rack and pinion hydraulic power steering
Turning Circle KTK	12.6m
Tub Length	1520mm
Tub width arches	1085mm
Tub Depth	475mm
Kerb Weight	2270kg
Payload (kg)	780kg
GVM (kg)	3050kg
GCM	5850kg
Towing Capacity	3500kg
Tow Ball rating	350kg

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Overall Rating

8.6/10

Summary

We drive the HiLux GR Sport which is the best HiLux built so far

Toyota HiLux GR Sport 2023 Review

Is the HiLux GR Sport any good