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By Charl Bosch

Motoring Journalist


Toyota Hilux GR Sport set for power increase but….

For now, the GR Sport has not been confirmed for South Africa.


Toyota’s recently re-introduced Hilux GR Sport, which remains a no-no for South Africa for now, is reportedly on course to benefit from an unexpected power output uptake when it goes on sale in South America next year.

Revealed in Thailand back in August with the same 150 kW output as the conventional Hilux, motor1.com Brazil, citing a report from Autoblog Argentina, claims that the 2.8 GD-6 engine will be upgraded to 165 kW with torque likely to also go up from the current 500 Nm models equipped with the six-speed automatic gearbox deliver.

Toyota Hilux GR Sport power uptake
Thai-market Hilux GR Sport

Like the Thai model though, the South American GR Sport is poised to feature the same styling differences consisting of Toyota Gazoo Racing bumpers and door sills, a TOYOTA branded and GR badged grille, black mirror caps and standard 18-inch black alloy wheels amongst others.

ALSO READ: This is it: Powered-up Toyota Hilux GR Sport revealed

Inside, the interior is also set to mirror Thai model and therefore receive leather seats with GR branding on the front headrests, a GR starter button, GR leather wrapped steering wheel with red 12’o clock marking, and silver inlays as well as red stitch work. It will also get the mono-tube shock absorbers and stiffer coil springs as part of the revised suspension setup.

Toyota Hilux GR Sport power uptake
Hilux GR Sport sold in Japan.

As mentioned, Toyota South Africa has so far remained mum on confirming the GR Sport’s return after all of the previous 600 units left dealership floors in quick succession.

An announcement is likely to be made next year though along with technical detail confirmation. For more on the revised local line-up, click here.

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