Toyota has unveiled a bolder-looking evolution of the Tacoma-sized Hilux called GR Sport II for the European market. Positioned at the top of the range, the truck features updates like a revised exterior design, a wider track for better on-board handling, and more ground clearance.

Visually, the GR Sport II stands out from other members of the Hilux range (which includes numerous body styles and trim levels) with a specific grille that wears "TOYOTA" lettering and a "GR" emblem, a more aerodynamic front bumper that reduces drag, and wheel arch flares, among other styling cues. It comes standard with a black spoiler fitted to the rear part of the cab and a folding tonneau cover.

Inside, the list of standard features includes sport seats, red seatbelts, shift paddles, and aluminum pedal caps. While some of the cheaper versions of the Hilux are truly basic, the GR Sport II offers car-like technology features like an eight-inch touchscreen for the infotainment system, wireless Apple CarPlay compatibility (Android users will still need to plug in, however), and a cloud-based navigation system.

The wheel arch flares weren't fitted merely to add an extra dose of ruggedness to the look. They're there because Toyota widened the front and rear tracks by 5.5 inches and 6.1 inches, respectively. Increasing the distance between the wheels unlocks more sure-footed handling on and off the road, while lifting the suspension system by nearly an inch increases the truck's approach angle from 29 to 30 degrees.

Off-road capacity has always been one of the Hilux's selling points; on-road comfort hasn't. It's not a Rolls-Royce, but the GR Sport II should deliver a smoother and more comfortable ride thanks in part to new dampers, lighter 17-inch wheels, and updates made to keep body roll in check. Braking has improved as well: the front discs are bigger than before and the rear drum brakes have (finally!) been replaced by discs.

Toyota hasn't made mechanical modifications, meaning power for the GR Sport II comes from the standard Hilux's 2.8-liter turbodiesel four-cylinder engine. It's rated at 201 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque, and it spins the rear or all four wheels via a six-speed automatic transmission and a two-speed transfer case. The truck is capable of towing up to 7,700 pounds and hauling approximately 2,200 pounds.

Sales of the Toyota Hilux GR Sport II will start in select European markets in early 2024. Pricing hasn't been announced yet.

Body TypeSUV
Model Year2023
Final DrivePART TIME 4X4
Model GradeADVENTURE
Spec RegionGCC
Fuel TypePETROL
Engine Type24 V,DUAL VVT-I,1GR-FE

Number Of Doors4
Number Of Seats5
Number Of Valves24 Valves
Number Of Cylinders6
Fuel TypePETROL
Engine Type24 V,DUAL VVT-I,1GR-FE
Wheel18” Alloy wheels Adventure Design
Width (mm)1855mm
Height (mm)1815mm
Length (mm)5325mm
Tire Size265/60R18
Wheelbase (mm)3085
Drive Train4X4
Engine Size4.0L, 6-Cylinder, V-TYPE (1GR-FE)
Horse Power235HP/5200RPM
Gross Weight (kg)2870 Kg
Transmission Type6-Speed Automatic
Fuel Tank Capacity (l)80L
Suspenstion SystemFront: Double-Wishbone Rear: Leaf springs Rigid axle
Deck Dimensions: Height (mm)480mm
Deck Dimensions: Length (mm)1555mm
Torque (nm/rpm)38.3/3800

Bedliner
Side Steps
Off-Road Flag
Central Door Lock
Follow-Me-Home Headlamps
Smart Keyless Entry
Mud Guards (Front And Rear)
Fog LampsLED Front
HeadlightsLED
Body StripesAdventure Side Stripes
Fender FlaresAdventure Design
Front & Rear BumpersAdventure Design
Door Handle ColorBody Color door handles
Headlight LevelingAuto
Front/Radiator GrilleAdventure Design
Colour Side View Door MirrorsBlack/Powered