The Hilux is the choice of nany contractors and people who actually need pickup trucks for their utility and not as a lifestyle vehicles. Alot of people who just want to experience a 4WD truck for the occasional light offroad trek and the frugal diesel engine tend to dismiss the Hilux because of its weak engine – only 100 horsepower and 260Nm of torque. This is thanks to the mild tuning of the engine, so mild that it does not even require an intercooler.
This could change. A more powerful version of the Hilux has just been launched in Thailand and its called the Toyota Hilux Vigo VN Turbo. The biggest change is highlighted in the name – it has a Variable Nozzle Turbo, also known as a Variable Geometry Turbocharger, similiar to the unit you can find in the Ford Ranger TDCi.
Two engines are available – a larger 3.0 VN Turbo (1KD-FTV) putting out 163 horses and 343Nm of torque between 1,400 to 3,200rpm, and a smaller 2.5 litre unit (2KD-FTV) making 144 horses and the same 343Nm of torque, this time over a narrower peak torque band between 1,600 to 2,800rpm. All engines are intercooled. These engines are Euro III engines (okay, so they may not end up being available here) and are B5 diesel capable.
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AI-generated Summary ✨
Comments highlight strong support for Toyota Hilux's reliability, durability, and proven performance in challenging conditions, especially in off-road and logging terrains. Enthusiasts commend its engineering, with some noting the engine's long-term resilience and the importance of low-stress tuning for engine longevity. There is excitement over the newer 2.5VNT Turbo engine upgrade offering increased power and fuel efficiency, though some express disappointment that the 3.0VNT engine remains limited in power output compared to competitors. Discussions also touch on the desirability of updated turbo technology like VNT, potential future releases in Malaysia, and the high resale value of Hilux. Overall, the sentiment is highly positive towards Hilux’s reputation for toughness, though some express longing for more advanced engine options.