This particular vehicle was the 48V mild hybrid version. This V-Active technology provides electric assistance to the powerful 150kW/500Nm HiLux 2.8-litre turbo-diesel four-cylinder engine.

Toyota claims fuel consumption gains of up to 9.5 per cent.

This is achieved by

• combining outputs from the engine and six-speed automatic transmission
• with a 48V electric motor-generator,
• 48V lithium-ion battery and
• Idle-stop system.

The 48-Volt technology delivers smoother, quieter yet more responsive performance and reduces engine load under acceleration, particularly from standstill.

I took the SR out to the farm for a few days, and I would have to say the Mild Hybrid seemed to have  slightly better economy as well as smoother and more responsive to drive. Its nit a full hybrid unfortunately, but its more than a gimmick.

The SR dual cab isn’t quite the entry level, but one up and while it misses out on a few safety and comfort features, is relatively well equipped. The fabric seats are comfortable although my ageing back always appreciates extra lumbar support and seat heaters.

Two things to note. The tailgate has dampers for assistance in opening and closing, that’s good. However, there are no factory fitted tie down points in the tub. That’s not so good.

The Toyota HiLux SR Mild Hybrid Ute is priced from a bit over $56,000 plus the usual costs

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Rob Fraser

Readers can find more details about the HiLux SR 48V HERE

TO LISTEN TO THE HiLux SR 48V RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Instead of the Toyota HiLux SR 48V buyers could also look at:

Entry level work style Dual Cab 4WD Utes are popular.

Buyers could look at Isuzu D-Max LS-U, Nissan Navara SL, Mazda BT-50, SsangYong Musso, GWM Cannon Alpha Hybrid, LDV T60, Mitsubishi Triton

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They have just released the all-new smaller SUV CH-R. It comes in three different models with either a 1.8L or 2.0L hybrid petrol engine.

Second, they released the all-electric BZ4X SUV. The unusually named model is the first all-electric SUV for the brand and was jointly developed with Subaru.

Lastly, they have also released the updated HiLux range with some models having the new V-Active technology, which is a mild hybrid. This brings a fuel economy improvement for the diesel engine of about 10%.

HiLux variants equipped with V-Active technology add Multi-Terrain Select, which includes six selectable modes that enhance wheel traction in a range of road surfaces.

Toyota is one of the only brands that have a range of alternative fueled vehicles, with petrol, diesel, hybrids in both petrol and diesel and hydrogen fuel cell EVs.

Their philosophy is to give buyers a choice  of vehicles so they can buy what suits their needs.

This is a Motoring Minute

I’m Rob Fraser

TO LISTEN TO THE Toyota Hybrid RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

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Toyota call it V-Active Technology and will be optional on the SR 4X4 Double cable cab AT. And standard on the SR5 and Rogue double cab models. The benefit is smoother stop start transitions and better fuel economy.

In a HiLux-first, all models fitted with V-Active Technology also feature Toyota’s Multi-Terrain Select off-road system (MTS). This offers six selectable modes to help improve traction in a range of conditions.

When in high range, MTS can be configured in Dirt, Sand, Mud, Deep Snow and Auto modes, while switching to low range offers Sand, Mud, Auto and Rock modes to provide the ideal mix of traction control in any situation.

Other improvements include some cosmetic refresh on some models and all pickup tubs now come with a soft opening assist feature.

There have been some pricing changes as you would expect and listeners can find these on our webi=site.

The upgraded Toyota HiLux is on sale now at your local dealer.

This is a Motoring Minute

I’m Rob Fraser

Readers can find more details about the HiLux Mild Hybrid  HERE

TO LISTEN TO THE HiLux Hybrid RADIO REVIEW, CLICK BELOW

Quick Highlights

• HiLux SR 4×4 double cab with optional V-Active Technology priced from $54,130 MLP
• Price premium for new V-Active Technology ranges from just $590 to $1605 depending on grade
• HiLux-first Multi-Terrain Select off-road system standard on all models fitted with V-Active Technology

The new fuel-saving powertrain technology – named V-Active Technology – will be optional on SR 4×4 double-cab automatic variants and standard on SR5 and Rogue 4×4 double cab automatic versions.

In a HiLux-first, all models fitted with V-Active Technology also feature Toyota’s Multi-Terrain Select off-road system (MTS) that offers six selectable modes to help improve traction in a range of conditions.

When in high range, MTS can be configured in Dirt, Sand, Mud, Deep Snow and Auto modes, while switching to low range offers Sand, Mud, Auto and Rock modes to provide the ideal mix of traction control in any situation.

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The post Toyota HiLux Hybrid – updated with hybrid technology appeared first on Motoring Minute.

I’ve chatted previously about these, but I recently got the opportunity to spend a week in one and I have to say, the more time in it the better I like it.

You can notice the improved ride and handling. This is because of the wider track and redesigned suspension. This includes different front coil and rear leaf spring tuning along with KYB monotube shock absorbers.

It soaks up the corrugations and bumps on dirt tracks, glides over sand and the on-road ride is greatly improved.

Also, the engine has a 10% improvement in both power and torque which is appreciated. This translates to more direct response and better driver engagement. More performance is always better.

I actually got better economy as well due to a more relaxed driving style.

The GR Sport HiLux sits almost in its own category, modified like the Navara Pro 4X Warrior and the Mazda BT-50 SP and Thunder, but with more engine output. It’s nowhere near the Ford Raptor though.

The HiLux is feeling dated inside and in need of an overhaul. However, the GR Sport seats and additional bling certainly add some life to it.

This is a Motoring Minute

I’m Rob Fraser

 TO LISTEN TO THE HILUX GR SPORT RADIO REVIEW, CLICK BELOW

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The post We drive the Toyota HiLux GR Sport 2024 Review appeared first on Motoring Minute.

There are three things that you immediately notice.

The first are the external changes, wider track, lifted suspension, better approach angles etc.

These second is that once you hop in and drive, the tightness of the suspension. It soaks up the little road bumps while feeling more in tune with road conditions. It also has more articulation and rebound dampening.

The third is the engine. That’s something you feel.

The extra power and torque, some 10% improvement, is immediately felt. Its how the HiLux should be. More responsive, more engaging more effective.

I drove the GR Sport over forest trails, rutted tracks and a specialised 4WD track run by the Canobolas 4WD Club. Throughout it all the GR Sport made it all look effortless.

Priced from a touch under $74.000 plus the usual costs the GR Sport is the best HiLux built so far.

This is a Motoring Minute

I’m Rob Fraser

Everything you need to know about the Toyota HiLux GR Sport, and more driving impressions,  can be FOUND HERE 

TO LISTEN TO THE HILUX GR SPORT RADIO REVIEW, CLICK BELOW

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Motoring Minute is heard around Australia every day on over 50 radio channels through the Torque Radio network.

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The latest version looks like it’s gone to the gym heaps, its muscled up with fender flares, a significant 20mm lift and now rides on 18-inch alloys and all terrain tyres.

Its also sits wider with a 140mm track increase and as a bonus rear disc brakes.

It looks impressive.

Rogue features include motorised roller cover, stylish resin sports bar and design touches, and a tub lined with marine-grade carpet.

Other standard specification highlights include heated front leather accentuated seats with panoramic view monitor and an integrated trailer wiring harness and tow ball.

The Rogue comes with the standard 2.8-litre turbodiesel four-cylinder engine producing 150kW/500Nm, teamed exclusively to a six-speed automatic transmission.
It will tow up to 3500kg with a 350kg tow ball rating. There is also an impressive 265mm of ground clearance.

I have to say that the improvement transform this model’s ride and handling and it’s a significant improvement on the outgoing version.
HiLux Rogue is priced from $70,200 plus the usual costs

This is a Motoring Minute

I’m Rob Fraser

TO LISTEN TO THE HILUX ROGUE RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Toyota HiLux Rogue Video

Some more HiLux articles  

• Toyota HiLux GR Sport Dakar inspired
• 2022 Toyota HiLux Rogue 4×4 flagship pick-up upgraded
• Toyota HiLux SR5 4WD Dual Cab Ute Review
• Toyota HiLux Rogue 4WD Ute and Mazda BT-50 Thunder 4WD Ute
• 2021 Toyota HiLux Rogue 4WD Dual Cab Ute 2021 Review
• Toyota HiLux Rogue Dual Cab Ute 2021 Radio Review
• 2021 Toyota has updated its HiLux Ute and Fortuner family SUV
• Toyota Hilux Rugged X 4WD Dual Cab Ute 2021 Review

Also look at:

Dual Cab 4WD Utes are popular. There are a few on the market and everyone is aiming upmarket

Buyers could look at Ford Ranger Sport, Isuzu D-Max X-Terrain, Nissan Navara PRO 4X Warrior, Mazda BT-50 Thunder.

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Listeners can hear Motoring Minute segments around Australia every day on over 50 radio channels through the Torque Radio network.

Motoring Minute has an average daily audience of over 550,000 listeners.

You can also find Motoring Minute segments syndicated through other news sites around Australia.

Additionally Motoring Minute is also broadcast as part of Overdrive – Cars Transport Culture Radio Program. 

Listeners can find this program weekly on the Spotify, SoundCloud and the Community Radio Network across Australia.

The post Toyota HiLux Rogue Ute 2023 Review appeared first on Motoring Minute.