The Hilux has been updated quite recently when we received a new model. This is a big upgrade over the older truck with an improved chassis, new engines and a new look inside and out. The fact that it is new didn’t stop people to start rumors about a small update that should come with the 2017 Toyota Hilux. The current truck is not only capable but also quite cheap, powerful, and it seems to be reliable as well. The update will likely offer a few changes under the hood as well as a few tweaks inside the cabin. People also say that this truck might also come with a special edition. In fact, it should be one of the first Hilux trucks to be offered with a TRD package from the factory.
There is still no clear information on what this package will contain. However, if we look in the past, then it is quite easy to assume. We expect the TRD Hilux to come with a tweaked engine, an improved running gear and also interior and exterior design changes. While some would think that it might compete with the Raptor, the truck would have more in common with the special editions of the Ranger. The pricing has yet to be released at this point, but we do expect a premium of around $5,000 over the regular versions. Currently, the base version starts from $17,500 making this one of the cheapest options on the market. Even it comes with a very competitive price you need to know that it does offer great features.
2017 Toyota Hilux Design
One of the more interesting aspects of the new Hilux is the way it looks. Rumors suggest that the 2017 Toyota Hilux is not going to change all that much. The two will still share the same front end, which is highly reminiscent of that we find on the Land Cruiser. However, the bed might change a bit. Here people expect a new cover for the top end models. This time, it should be motorized which will allow an easier operation while looking much nicer. It should be added just to the TRD model so those wanting it will likely have to face longer waiting for queues and higher price.
As we mentioned above, the cabin of the truck is likely not going to remain unchanged either. While big upgrades are out of the question, we do expect small tweaks for the new truck. The center console is likely going to be revamped, the materials used here should improve while the infotainment system should be swapped altogether. This is likely going to be replaced by a new Android-based unit which will finally get a faster interface that is also easier to use.
Powertrain of new Hilux
Let’s now move to the part about most people buying a Hilux are interested, the engines. The current truck is being offered with two different petrol engines and four diesel engines. However, these are market dependent, and the truck will get a maximum of two on each market. The big change for the 2017 Toyota Hilux seems to be the TRD. Rumors suggest that this particular version might be available with a 2.8-liter turbocharged diesel, the same as before. However, this time around it should get a bump to around 210 horsepower and 360 lb-ft of torque. Take into consideration that the six-speed manual is likely going to be the only choice here.
Not that long ago Toyota was also talking about more efficient petrol engines. Because of that, we do think that the old 4.0-liter V6 will finally be abandoned. In its place, we should see two different units, depending on the market. Some would get a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline four with around 230 horsepower and 240 lb-ft of torque. Other markets, on the other hand, would get a 3.5-liter naturally aspirated V6. This should offer close to 280 horsepower and 250 lb-ft of torque, and it should be a nice replacement over the old V6. Our favorite certainly is the diesel but if you are looking for this vehicle on the U.S. market, if it ever comes, it will hardly bring the diesel option. Even this doesn’t happen we will be happy with the gasoline version.
