2018 Toyota Hilux facelift gets new Tacoma-style face

The facelifted Toyota Hilux has just been unveiled in Thailand, just two years after the eighth-generation model was introduced. The pick-up receives a revised look and a new range-topping trim level.

Does that front end look familiar? That’s because you’ve probably seen it on the latest Tacoma, Toyota’s US-only midsize truck. The hexagonal grille is massive and joins a redesigned bumper with an upturned centre air intake and new fog light surrounds.

It should be noted that the new front fascia is only available on the 4×4 and high-riding 4×2 Prerunner variants; the entry-level, low-riding 4×2 versions get the same face as before, albeit with a black grille and a front bumper guard. The rest of the exterior is identical to the outgoing model.

Also unchanged is the interior, as well as the kit on offer – buyers in Thailand can still opt for LED headlights, LED fog lights, keyless entry, push button start, cruise control, climate control, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, rear air-con vents, a cooled upper glovebox and a 220V socket under the centre armrest. Safety kit is also unchanged with up to seven airbags and Vehicle Stability Control available.

What is new is a rugged range-topping model called the Rocco. Available only as a double cab and in 2.8G 4×2 and 4×4 trims, it adds a grey and gloss black grille, a grey rear bumper, black wheel arch trims, black 18-inch wheels shod in all-terrain tyres with white lettering, a sports bar, bed lining, special Rocco graphics and a black interior with black metallic trim, on top of the aforementioned equipment.

The existing range of engines soldier on – the 2.4 litre 2GD-FTV turbodiesel continues to make 150 hp at 3,400 rpm and 400 Nm of torque from 1,600 and 2,000 rpm with a six-speed automatic transmission (343 Nm between 1,400 and 2,800 rpm with a five-speed manual).

Meanwhile, the larger 2.8 litre 1GD-FTV mill retains its output of 177 hp at 3,400 rpm and 450 Nm of torque between 1,600 and 2,400 rpm (420 Nm between 1,400 and 2,600 rpm with a six-speed manual). The 2.7 litre Dual VVT-i petrol has also been retained, sending 166 hp at 5,200 rpm and 245 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm through either a five-speed manual or a six-speed auto.

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