A Legend in the making: New To

Image:motorpress

A Legend in the making: New Toyota Hilux Raider blends style and utility

Raiding party: Toyota SA has introduced a new, high-end reimagined bakkie which now gives customers more choice across the range.

A Legend in the making: New To

Image:motorpress

The Toyota Hilux underwent a significant model update in the latter part of 2020, boasting sharpened exterior styling, specification upgrades, a rationalised line-up, and a new flagship Legend grade.

The SRX model of old (which catered to customers requiring a blend of utility and comfort) has made way for the reimagined Raider nameplate.

Why rebadge the SRX as a Raider?

The simple answer, Toyota SA says, is that as the “bakkie” market has evolved, customers have come to expect more from even utility-biased derivatives.

“This, in turn, meant that the mid-tier SRX grade moved closer and closer into traditional Raider territory, somewhat blurring the lines between the mid-grade and top-grade models.”

The introduction of the new high-end Legend model provides the opportunity to “optimise the model line-up” and offer customers more across the board.

The “new Raider” offers the perfect blend of style and utility. 

Toyota Hilux Raider
Image: Motorpress

Signature look: Unique chrome treatment

Visually, the new Raider inherits the latest Hilux “face”, featuring sculpted headlamps, a larger trapezoidal grille, integrated bumper guard and boomerang-shaped fog-lamp surrounds.

Unique to Raider is the chrome treatment of the front grille frame – creating a signature look for the model. 

Toyota Hilux Raider

The 18-inch wheels have been swapped out for graphite-coloured 17-inch versions – creating a tough yet stylish look.

More power under the hood

Previously, the SRX models were paired with the 2.4 GD-6 engine delivering 110kw and 400Nm, while the Raider variants were paired exclusively with the 2.8 GD-6 engine.

“With the merging of the two grades, we now offer both 2.4 and 2.8 GD-6 Raider models.”

Raider models also benefit from the upgraded 1GD engine (2.8 GD-6) producing 150kw and 500 Nm in automatic transmission guise.

Manual models boast the same 150kw with 420Nm of torque, while the 2.4 GD-6 outputs remain unchanged.

Is the new Raider just a de-specced version of the old model?

Quite the contrary, Toyota SA says.

In recognition of the increased dual-purpose usage, the new Raider models features some notable upgrades – particularly on the safety front.

Park Distance Control (PDC) has been added while the Airbag tally has increased with the addition of side and curtain airbags – SRX models previously only had driver and passenger airbags.

The fog lamps have been upgraded to LED-spec on 2.4 models, while 2.8 versions now feature full LED headlamps and taillights. 

A Variable-Flow Control (VFC) power-steering pump has been added.

“Not only does this improve fuel economy, it also provides a more natural driving feel that varies depending on the driving conditions.”

A high level of assistance is offered at low speeds (parking manoeuvres) while offering lower levels of assistance at higher cruising speeds in order to improve steering feel.

In terms of drivetrain, an Auto Limited Slip Diff (LSD) has also been specified for Raider models, aiding traction in low-grip situations.  

More options

There are multiple Raider models to choose from depending on body-style.

In single and double-cab format, the 2.4 GD-6 is available in both Raised Body (4×2) and 4×4 configuration, with a choice of either a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission.

The 2.8 GD-6 is available as either Raised Body or 4×4 and coupled with the 6-speed ‘auto.’

The Xtra cab variants feature a simplified two model line-up (in-line with market trends).

Exterior and interior upgrades

As part of the model update, the interior too has received some attention.

A new ‘floating’ infotainment system with eight-inch screen and rotary-knob control occupies the centre of the facia.

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality are now embedded within the system. This allows users to mirror applications off their mobile phone – for seamless connectivity.

Navigation applications, such as Google Maps and Waze, are natively included and occupants can also access their music libraries and streaming accounts via apps like Apple Music, JOOX, Spotify and SoundCloud.

Wireless telephony is supported via Bluetooth with a USB input for additional media options.

An enlarged Multi-Information Display (MID) and new instrument cluster design, also forms part of the package.

These are over and above the existing standard specification items such as; air-conditioning (automatic climate control on 2.8 GD-6 versions), cruise control, reverse camera, air-conditioned glovebox, 12- and 220-volt accessory connectors, tilt-and-telescopic adjustable leather steering wheel, and steering switches.

Toyota Connect part of the deal

All Hilux models are also equipped with the Toyota Connect telematics system which includes an in-car Wi-Fi hotspot and complimentary 15Gb data.

Once linked to their profile, customers can manage their vehicle via the MyToyota App.

This intuitive app allows on-demand service bookings, vehicle information and history, tracking data as well as Toyota Connect data recharge services, and much more – even including the ability to renew your vehicle license online.

Warranty, maintenance, and pricing

All Hilux models come with a three-year/100 000 km warranty.

A nine-services/90 000 km service plan is standard on all models.

Customers can also purchase extended service plans and warranty packages via their Toyota dealer. 

SINGLE CAB 
HILUX SC 2.4 GD-6 RB RAIDER 6MT R 459,000
HILUX SC 2.4 GD-6 RB RAIDER 6AT R 477,800
HILUX SC 2.4 GD-6 4X4 RAIDER 6MT R 531,100
HILUX SC 2.4 GD-6 4X4 RAIDER 6AT R 551,700
HILUX SC 2.8 GD-6 RB RAIDER 6AT R 545,600
HILUX SC 2.8 GD-6 4X4 RAIDER 6AT R 614,400
  
XTRA CAB 
HILUX XC 2.4 GD-6 RB RAIDER 6MT R 471,500
HILUX XC 2.4 GD-6 RB RAIDER 6AT R 490,200
  
DOUBLE CAB 
HILUX DC 2.4 GD-6 RB RAIDER MT R 515,300
HILUX DC 2.4 GD-6 RB RAIDER AT R 531,600
HILUX DC 2.4 GD-6 4X4 RAIDER  MT R 595,400
HILUX DC 2.4 GD-6 4X4 RAIDER AT R 621,700
Hilux DC 2.8 GD-6 RB RAIDER AT R 644,500
Hilux DC 2.8 GD-6 4X4 RAIDER AT R 720,500
Source:motorpress