Toyota Hilux GR-Sport in SA: suspension upgrades detailed…

By: CAR magazine

If you’re a regular reader of CARmag.co.za, you’ll already know we published a pricing scoop on the new Toyota Hilux GR-Sport (as well as the new Legend 50 variants). And now Toyota South Africa has revealed a few more details about this model, including its special suspension upgrades.

As a reminder, just 535 units of the Hilux GR-Sport flagship double-cab bakkie have been set aside for South Africa. The newcomer is based on the existing 2,8 GD-6 4×4 6AT double-cab derivative, which means it employs the standard 2,8-litre four-cylinder turbodiesel engine, sending 130 kW and 450 N.m to all four wheels via a six-speed automatic transmission. It is priced at R707 400, which is some R69 900 more than the model on which it is based.

The local arm of the Japanese automaker says the Hilux GR-Sport has been “engineered” by its Gazoo Racing arm, featuring tuned suspension “for better handling and control – while sacrificing none of its comfort or safety – as well as an ultra-aggressive Gazoo Racing-inspired exterior and interior”.

Toyota says the double-wishbone front and leaf spring rear suspension set-up has been “specially uprated for improved high-speed handling on all tar and gravel surfaces”. Stronger shock absorbers have been fitted at all four corners for “increased damping”, while the front springs are also stiffer than standard. While the firm says the latter results in a “sportier ride and sharper turning response”, it claims it does so “without compromising on the Hilux’s ride quality”.

Styling updates for the Hilux GR-Sport – which will be offered in Glacier White, Attitude Black and Arizona Red, each hue complete with special “Gazoo Racing” decals – include a black honeycomb grille (playing host to silver “Toyota” lettering), red trim for the front foglamp bezels, black 17-inch alloys (shod in 265/65 R17 rubber), GR-Sport-branded running boards and Toyota Gazoo Racing lettering along the flanks and on the tailgate.

Inside, you’ll find a branded start button, partial leather trim, “GR” branding for the headrests (and floor mats),a production plate with a unique serial number (sited on the centre console), splashes of red trim and a new eight-inch touchscreen infotainment system (with satellite navigation).

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