First details are starting to filter through about what is surely one of the most important vehicles for South Africans – and a best seller too – Toyota’s Hilux bakkie.
Set to be unveiled internationally next month, South Africa will be one of the first countries to receive this updated bakkie during the third quarter of this year. Part of the reason why this model will be available so soon after its international release is the fact that all three variants, Single-, Xtra- and Double-Cab, will now be built locally.
Toyota could unfortunately not reveal any specific information, but expect better safety levels as well as improved comfort and features levels. In fact, we're promised a significantly upgraded interior and facia trim.
Toyota did however, confirm that there will be updated engines in the line-up. This will include the volume-selling D-4D turbodiesel engines, where the emphasis will be placed on mid-range torque rather than top end power. These upgrades come at a time when new and forthcoming entrants (VW Amarok, Ford Ranger) are putting pressure on Toyota's ageing icon.
Wihtin two weeks of the Hilux's local launch, the launch of the similarly upgraged Fortuner will follow.
* CAR currently has a Toyota Hilux Xtra Cab on its long-term fleet, have a look on our blog site for the latest update.
