Toyota brings raw power to life with 2.8-litre turbo-diesel Hilux GR-Sport
There is also a little trick up the GR-Sport's proverbial sleeve: power output has been increased to 165kW and 550Nm thanks to a special ECU (electronic control unit) calibration.
A delicious 2.8-litre, 4-cylinder turbodiesel engine graces the long-awaited Toyota Hilux GR-Sport, built locally in South Africa at Prospecton, Durban.
Toyota resumed KZN production in July following flood damage from April’s severe downpour. While locally built, the GR-sport was inspired by Toyota’s success at the Dakar Rally.
Offering more power and torque, the GR-Sport boasts a top speed of 175km/h, with the manufacturer boasting a 0.65s improvement to how fast it reaches 100km/h, the actual time was not released.
There is also a little trick up the GR-Sport’s proverbial sleeve: power output has been increased to 165kW and 550Nm thanks to a special ECU (electronic control unit) calibration.
The calibration allows for interfacing with revised six-speed automatic transmission mapping and lock-up control ensuring optimised power delivery.
In terms of safety and security, the GR-Sport is equipped with Toyota Safety Sense which allows for adaptive cruise control, lane departure alert and even pre-collision systems.
On the exterior, a large and prominent black grille graces the front with a horizontal crossbar and Toyota letting.
For those with a poor eye for detail, the bumpers are based on the Raider model-design as opposed to the Legend variant, and most notably include wider black over-fenders with contrasting inserts.
Along with some other modifications, these have contributed to its overall aggressive look.
Design changes have also come to the interior, with a new instrument cluster featuring metallic bezels and red needles.
A bespoke leather trim graces the steering wheel with red contrast stitching and at your feet are sporty aluminium pedals with rubber inserts.
Striking carbon fibre trim replaces the brushed finish in Legend models, which is complemented by red accent trim signaling the GR Sport’s performance credentials.
The racing-inspired front seats feature Alcantara inserts, GR badging on the headrests, red accent panels plus power adjustment for the driver’s seat.
But who said you need to take our word for it, go have a look at the GR-Sport yourself, priced at R865 400.
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