In this review, we delve into the 2024 Toyota Hilux GR Sport, a vehicle that has stirred considerable excitement due to its sporty design and upgraded performance. As we explore its features and capabilities, we’ll provide an objective analysis, covering everything from its exterior enhancements to its driving dynamics and interior comforts.
Exterior Enhancements: A Masculine Marvel
The Hilux GR Sport boasts significant exterior upgrades, with a 135mm wider front and 155mm wider rear, giving it a commanding presence on the road. Featuring LED headlights, daytime running lights, and turn signals, this vehicle shines bright. The front also showcases a sleek mesh insert, a 360-degree camera, and a sturdy 2mm thick steel bash plate for added protection.
Moving to the side, the vehicle flaunts 17-inch alloy wheels, four-piston brake calipers, and Bridgestone Dueler all-terrain tires, making it ready for various terrains. The wider track and revised suspension setup enhance stability, although the metal side steps, while stylish, prove impractical due to their limited space.
At the back, the design continues to impress with unique Hilux tail lights, although the use of incandescent bulbs seems outdated. The Hilux GR Sport also offers a spacious bed with a bed liner, yet lacks certain features found in its competitors, like a cover.
Interior: A Mixed Bag of Comfort and Disappointment
While the interior of the Hilux GR Sport has its merits, it falls short in several areas. The seats, crafted from Alcantara and leather, offer a comfortable experience, while the infotainment system, albeit outdated, functions reasonably well. However, the extensive use of hard plastics and subpar materials, coupled with excessive cabin noise, detract from the overall comfort.
Despite ample storage options and thoughtful touches like the red stitching and JBL speakers, the interior fails to justify its high price point. The small digital instrument cluster, lack of device charging options in the back, and absence of a wireless charger further diminish the overall appeal.
Performance: Raw Power Meets Handling Challenges
Under the hood, the Hilux GR Sport packs a punch with its 2.8L 4-cylinder turbo diesel engine, delivering an impressive 165 kW of power and 550 Nm of torque. These enhancements result in an exhilarating 0-100 km/h time of 9.94 seconds, making it one of the fastest 4-cylinder utes on the market.
However, the handling leaves much to be desired. The heavy steering and rear-wheel-drive setup, especially in wet conditions, make it challenging to navigate corners confidently. While it excels in raw power, the overall driving experience falls short of expectations.
Conclusion: A Stylish Yet Flawed Contender
In summary, the 2024 Toyota Hilux GR Sport showcases a visually striking exterior and impressive power under the hood. However, its interior quality and handling dynamics raise concerns, especially given its hefty price tag. For consumers seeking a blend of style, power, and practicality, exploring other options in the market might provide a more satisfying overall experience. As the automotive industry continues to evolve, one can hope for future iterations of the Hilux to address these shortcomings and offer a more well-rounded driving experience.
