2017 Toyota Hilux Review

Detailed Review

The first version Toyota Hilux, designated N10, was produced from 1968 to 1972. In 1971, the 1.5-liter engine was updated to a 1.6-liter inline-four. In 1969, a long-wheelbase model was added to the line-up. The short-wheelbase version was also produced for many years.

The second generation Hilux, designated N20, was introduced in 1972 and produced until 1978. It had a more comfortable interior and some aesthetic improvements over the original version.

The third-generation Hilux, which was categorized into two categories, N30 and N40, went into production in 1978 and lasted until 1983. The updated model had identical proportions to its predecessor, but it had wider front and rear tracks. The front suspension was also altered from coil springs to a torsion bar system with a double wishbone structure. The 4WD model, which was only available with the two-litre “18R” engine, shared some technologies with the larger Toyota Land Cruiser.

Between 1983 and 1988, the Toyota Hilux’s fourth generation was categorized into three categories: N50, N60, and N70. The vehicle had a small interior and external facelift, which included a new grille, a new one-piece front bumper, and an improved interior with full high door panels with simulated leather stitching on base and DLX models.

The fifth-generation Hilux was further subdivided into five models; the N80, N90, N100, and N110, all of which were produced between 1988 and 1997. A longer wheelbase was introduced, which increased cargo area space.

The Toyota Hilux sixth generation, which was similarly divided into four categories, namely N140, N150, N160, and N170, was produced from 1997 to 2004. The Hilux underwent a small design revamp as well as the addition of a few new engine options. The Hilux was then facelifted for the 2002 model year in 2001.

The seventh generation Hilux was divided into three models; the AN10, AN20, and AN30, with production commencing in 2004 and continuing until 2015. Toyota initially offered three pickup truck body variants: a two-door Single Cab (IMV1), a two-door Xtra Cab (IMV2), and a four-door Double Cab (IMV3). Toyota debuted the Smart Cab, a four-door cab with hidden rear clamshell doors, in 2008. The Toyota Innova (AN40) minivan (IMV4) and Toyota Fortuner SUV (IMV5) were both created from the IMV program.

The eighth generation Toyota Hilux was divided into three categories, namely AN110, AN120, and AN130, and production began in 2015 and is still ongoing. With the related Fortuner, it was the first in the Toyota IMV family to receive a new generation. The eighth-generation Hilux adopts the “Keen Look” design language, which includes smaller headlamps with optional projector headlights and LED daytime running lights. This look is carried over into the cabin, with identical AC vents and a more “car-like” center fascia. This model comes with an optional automated emergency braking system (AEB).

The 2017 Toyota Hilux comes with four engine options; 2.7 L 2TR-FE (Petrol), 4.0 L 1GR-FE (Petrol), 2.4 L 2GD-FTV (Diesel), and 2.8 L 1GD-FTV (Diesel) which are coupled to a 5-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission. Click here to purchase the 2017 Toyota Hilux Buyer’s Guide. 

2017 Toyota Hilux Grades

1. Workmate- This grade comes with an engine immobilizer, cruise control, power steering, AUX/USB input socket, carpet floor covering, and electronic brake force distribution.
2. SR- This grade is fitted with Bluetooth connectivity, a hill holder, Anti-lock braking, hill descent control, brake assist, and Keyless entry.
3. SR HI- RIDER- This grade is equipped with daytime running lights, a traction control system, a rear center armrest, and a trip computer.
4. Workmate HI- RIDER- This grade has power windows, grab handles in the front and rear, seatback pockets, and a digital clock.
5. Workmate (4×4)- This grade comes with a 12-volt power outlet, MP3 compatible audio player, central locking remote control, and Antenna.
6. SR5 HI- RIDER-  This grade is fitted with a multi-function control screen, alarm system, leather steering wheel, and a lockable glovebox compartment.
7. SR (4×4)- This grade is equipped with dusk-sensing headlights, a voice recognition system, a spare wheel full-size alloy wheel, child seat anchor points, and a rear privacy glass.
8. TRD WHITE (4×4)-  This grade has a Radio CD with six speakers, electronic stability control, emergency stop signal, LED headlights, and chrome interior handles.
9. SR+ (4×4)-  This grade comes with a trailer stability control, digital broadcast audio, 18-inch alloy wheels, climate control, reverse camera, and cruise control.
10. TRD BLACK (4×4)- This grade is fitted with a navigation system, chrome exterior mirrors, an alloy sports bar, intermittent wipers, an AUX/USB input socket, and a keyless entry.
11. SR5 (4×4)- This grade is equipped with power mirrors, electronic brakeforce distribution, a digital clock, and a reverse camera.
12. SR5+ (4×4)- This grade has a central locking remote control, child seat anchor points, a voice recognition system, a 12-volt power outlet, and a navigation system.

Interior

Legroom & Space

The cabin of the 2017 Toyota Hilux is roomy and pleasant. The cabin is particularly well-insulated, allowing for a serene trip over treacherous terrain.

The seats in the first row are supportive and well-cushioned, with plenty of legroom and headroom for the driver and front passenger. The seats can additionally recline to accommodate the driver or front passenger’s preferred posture. The second-row seats have enough legroom and knee room, but the headroom might make taller people feel a little bit more uncomfortable, especially in longer drives.

Cabin Storage

The 2017 Toyota Hilux encompasses several storage compartments that can be used to keep or hold items of passengers in the cabin.

The first row has been fitted with two cupholders, a center console, door pockets, and a glovebox compartment. The second row has door pockets and two cupholders mounted on the center armrest.

Boot Space

The load tub of the 2017 Toyota Hilux is 1550mm long and 1520mm wide with 1110mm between the wheel arches.

Exterior

The 2017 Toyota Hilux boasts a bold and powerful appearance that demonstrates its off-road capability. The Hilux has a big grille at the front with the Toyota symbol attached to it to denote its presence. It has a sporty flair thanks to the headlamps. The lower fascia features air vents that aid in cooling the engine because it is mostly driven in extreme off-road terrains. Depending on the owner’s preference, a bull bar can be added at the front to enhance its muscular look and also prevent damage to its components in case of an accident.

The side profile is fitted with running boars which aid occupants in either exiting or boarding this pick-up. Roof rails and a roof spoiler can be added to improve its aesthetics. The rear end features tail lights and turn signals as well as a manually operated tailgate. The lower bumper of the Hilux encompasses a tow bar which can be used in towing trailers or any other kind of freight.

Muscular wheel arches and prominent character lines run the length of the body outlining the side profile. Running boards have also been fitted. A big tailgate and a chrome-accented bumper dominate the back end. The 2017 Hilux can also be equipped with a bull bar, a winch, and a roof rack.

2017 Toyota Hilux Safety Features

The 2017 Toyota Hilux features SRS Airbags( Driver Knee airbags, side airbags, curtain airbags) ABS with EBD, 3-Point ELR seatbelts, Brake Assist, VSC, Load Sensing Proportioning, Traction control, Bypass Valve, Downhill assist control (DAC), Hill-start assist control (HAC) and Automatic high beams (AHB).

2017 Toyota Hilux Fuel Consumption

2017 Toyota Hilux 2.7 L petrol engine consumption- 10.9 km/l on average

2017 Toyota Hilux 4.0 L petrol engine consumption- 9.7 km/l on average

2017 Toyota Hilux 2.4 L diesel engine consumption- 13.5 km/l on average

2017 Toyota Hilux 2.8 L diesel engine consumption- 12.7 km/l on average

2017 Toyota Hilux Acceleration

2017 Toyota Hilux 2.7 L petrol engine accelerates from 0-100km/h in 11.8 secs

2017 Toyota Hilux 4.0 L petrol engine accelerates from 0-100km/h in 10.3 secs

2017 Toyota Hilux 2.4 L diesel engine accelerates from 0-100km/h in 11.6 secs

2017 Toyota Hilux 2.8 L diesel engine accelerates from 0-100km/h in 10.7 secs

2017 Toyota Hilux Fuel Tank Capacity: 80 liters

Ground Clearance

The 2017 Toyota Hilux has a ground clearance of 11.0 inches.

Service Intervals

Minor Service: At 5,000 km. Requires Air Cleaner, Oil Filter, and Engine Oil.

Major Service: At 10,000km. Requires Air Cleaner, Oil Filter, Fuel Filter, ATF Filter, Cabin Filter, Plugs, Front Brake Pads, Rear Brake Pads, ATF Oil, and Engine Oil.

Spare Parts and Availability

Service parts are affordable and widely available in Kenya. Body parts are expensive and available from major Toyota dealerships in Kenya.

Stability And Handling

The 2017 Toyota Hilux is a capable off-roader that does not compromise on-road stability and handling. Its steering wheel is highly responsive and reacts to road curvature in real time. This pick-up has a well-tuned suspension system that balances comfort and handling by absorbing bumps and maintaining road stability. The leaf springs are excellent, especially when moving freight on an uneven road surface.

The body-on-frame design helps to uniformly distribute weight and contributes to enhanced stability during cornering and off-road driving. The Hilux brakes are very robust and they can bring it to a complete halt in a matter of seconds to avoid any potential accident.

This pickup is also equipped with cruise control, an anti-lock braking system, and electronic brake force distribution, giving it a solid driving dynamic.

Reliability

The 2017 Toyota Hilux has been in production for a long time, which has allowed Toyota to make numerous changes, redesigns, and tweaks to produce a nearly ideal vehicle. A handful of owners have expressed worries about the Diesel Particulate Filters (DPF), which is a typical problem with diesel models. Regular service and maintenance are highly recommended to avoid such problems.

On the plus side, because of its high ground clearance, it can easily navigate difficult off-road terrain without compromising its body components. Click here to purchase the 2017 Toyota Hilux Buyer’s Guide. 

Resale Value: Good

Toyota Hilux Competitors:  Ford Ranger, Nissan Navara, Isuzu D-Max. Mazda-BT, Nissan Hardbody, Mitsubishi L200, and Volkswagen Amarok.

What we like about the 2017 Toyota Hilux

Off-road capability

Powerful engine options

What we don’t

Some variants are costly

Conclusion

The 2017 Toyota Hilux provides a blend of dependability and durability. As much as it is considered a commercial vehicle, commuters in metropolitan areas might utilize it as their daily carrier to and from work. Its versatility is a turn-on for individuals who like going for longer drives in different terrains and weather conditions. As much as the majority of people would love to own the Hilux, its asking price is very high for folks on a tight budget. Click here to download a copy of the 2017 Toyota Hilux Owner’s Manual.