KUALA LUMPUR – With every new pickup truck launched in recent times, there seems to be a need to have a more powerful version to cater to the needs of the urban buyer. So where are the urban pickup truck owners using this increased power and torque? Definitely not in city traffic or even on the open highway that is riddled with speed cameras and police monitoring.
It seems that the bragging rights for a city only pickup truck owner is the amount of power ready to be unleashed under its shiny clean hood. In countries where pickup truck owners tow recreational boats, jet skies and even dirt bikes for the weekend fun, towing power needs more torque and this is where 500Nm of torque is needed and used.
In Malaysia where a tow bar might be installed for aesthetic reasons only, you never see a speed boat or even a sampan being towed. Yes, there are a small handful of tow bar users among the pickup truck community, but even they use simple hardy, workhorse pickup trucks for their recreational needs.
This new Hilux Rogue arrives with a new, more powerful 2.8 litre, 204bhp diesel engine generating 500Nm of torque. This new engine will accelerate the Toyota Hilux from 0-100 km/h in just 10.0 seconds (2.8 seconds faster than the existing 2.4 litre engine), whilst returning an average fuel consumption of 7.8 l/100 km when driven gingerly.
Working with a reliable 6-speed automatic transmission is mated to Toyota’s every so capable 4-wheel drive system the Rogue keeps its legendary off-road capabilities while improving on-road comfort with a crossover like ride comfort. To ensure extreme off-road conditions, Toyota Hilux is one of the few still true to its body-on-frame architecture which can withstand twisting forces better with better durability.
The comfort and drivability of the new Hilux has been enhanced through improvements to the suspension and power steering systems. The suspension benefits from front and rear shock absorber tuning, improved leaf spring design and new bushing to combine a smoother ride with reduced impact on ruts and potholes.
The face of this revised Toyota Hilux has been completely redesigned with a new bold and powerful three-dimensional grille and front bumper treatment, which significantly increases the pick-up's road presence and strong stature, whilst reinforcing its tough, robust, go-anywhere credentials that Malaysians have come to trust.
Although it has tough workhorse capabilities, the Hilux is also comfortable for daily motoring. The ride comfort has been noticeably improved through various measures, including optimization of cabin mounts to reduce shaking, roughness and noise transmission into the cabin.
In line with Toyota’s aim of making motoring safer and reducing accidents, Toyota Safety Sense is provided for the Hilux Rogue. This feature consists of three systems that assist drivers: Pre- Collision System (PCS), Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC), Lane Departure Alert (LDA), with Steering & Brake Assist.
Other driver-assist systems (depending on variant) include Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Downhill Assist Control, Hill Start Assist Control, Trailer Sway Control, Vehicle Stability Control and Traction Control, Brake Assist and, of course, ABS with Brakeforce Distribution.
Inside the vehicle, there are up to seven (7) SRS airbags to help reduce injuries during an accident. The seat belt reminder now has sensors on front and rear seatbelts and ISOFIX points are provided at the rear for easy and secure installation of compatible child seats.
Selling prices start from RM92,880 for the 2.4 base Hilux to RM146,880 for this 2.8L Rogue we have just tested. You will need to visit a Toyota showroom to get a closer look and feel of this new premium truck. – The Vibes, October 9, 2020
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