Akin to the middle line-up in a cricket team, the new 2,4 litre GD-6 powered Toyota Hilux derivatives deliver a strong punch and complete the task at hand effortlessly, reaching the end goal with seeming ease and transporting the team to the winner’s circle.
The focal point of the new Toyota Hilux 2,4-litre Global Diesel engines is undoubtedly their impressive power and torque outputs
The focal point of the new mid-range 2,4-litre Global Diesel (GD) engines is undoubtedly their impressive power and torque outputs. Two iterations of the 2,4-litre engine are offered, with the standard version delivering 110kW and 343N.m between 1 400 and 2 800rpm. This represents a 35kW increase versus the old model (46% improvement), and a colossal 143N.m increase in torque (72% improvement).
The high-output version receives a boost in torque to 400N.m, available between 1 600 and 2 000rpm, constituting a 53% increase in tractive force. These significant improvements in output allow the new Hilux to punch above its weight.
Grade alignment
As part of the overall grade strategy of the new Toyota Hilux line-up, mid-grade engines are paired with mid-grade specification packages in order to provide maximum value to the customer and align the overall package with the requirements of the target market.
As such the 2,4 family of engines perform duty across all three body shapes, in the workhorse and SRX grade models. The utility focussed workhorse derivatives are equipped with the standard output 2,4-litre engine, making light work of any load and offering class leading torque output of 343N.m.
The mid-grade SRX models are specified with the high output 2,4-litre GD engine, which affords them exceptional performance credentials, whilst also being able to boast with a class leading torque output – weighing in at 400N.m.
The SRX package offers customers a host of core convenience features and strikes a perfect balance between function and form. In addition to standard comforts such as power windows, a 12-volt power outlet, adjustable exterior mirrors, ABS brakes, remote central locking and an all-new anti-theft system, the SRX models further incorporate steering switches, tilt & telescopic steering wheel adjustment (XC and DC only), an economy meter, multi-information display, audio system with Bluetooth and USB playback, as well as 17-inch steel wheels.
On the passive safety front, occupants are protected by driver, passenger and driver knee airbags, with ISOFIX attachment points and a 3-point rear centre seatbelt being added to double- cab models.
Slick transmissions
Forming the link between the advanced new engines and the driven wheels are all-new slick 5- and 6-speed transmissions. Workhorse models are equipped with a rugged 5-speed manual transmission, with the SRX versions receiving a slick-shifting 6-speed manual.
The new transmissions help make the make the most of the 2,4 litre engine’s power delivery and provide an effortless drive with carefully spaced gear ratios.
SRX models equipped with the 6-speed transmission proudly sport the ‘2.4 GD-6’ moniker on the fender, whilst workhorse models omit the ‘6’ in their nomenclature, to denote the fitment of a 5-speed cog swapper.
Outstanding fuel economy
The 2,4 GD engines also deliver superb fuel efficiency, with the 2WD Raised Body double-cab variant using a meagre 7,1 litres/100km. A raft of improvements in engine design combine to produce a power plant that offers exceptional performance, efficiency and refinement.