Hilux through the years
The year 1968 marked the beginning of the Toyota Hilux first generation, but it was only in 1973 that the Toyota Hilux was introduced to South Africa.
The second-generation Hilux was the first enhancement to the original Hilux and had four different models that were powered by either a 1.6-litre or a 2.0-litre engine. This vehicle, either a long wheelbase or a short wheelbase, was quite the improvement from Generation One’s mechanical components.
The third-generation Hilux was brought out in 1978 and was built with sedan-like features and the ride comfort had been increased to make the drive more pleasurable. This model ran a 1.6-litre 12R-J engine which it had inherited from its predecessor.
In 1983 the fourth-generation Hilux was introduced to the world. This model came out in the Comfortable model, which was the fourth generation with a new and improved interior and exterior, and the Popular model, which was the third generation that was still in production.
Five years later the fifth-generation Hilux was launched. This vehicle was built with power, comfort, and sturdiness. The interior of the vehicle was improved even further to improve its functionality as a multi-purpose vehicle.
The sixth-generation Hilux was launched in 1997 and came with two main models. This business-use truck or a personal-use sports pickup truck. An Extra cab model was introduced in November that year.
The seventh-generation Hilux was brought out in 2004. This vehicle was sold in 140 different countries worldwide. That year Toyota brought out five new models which included three pickup truck models, a sports utility vehicle model, and a minivan model. The seventh-generation Hilux is the first to not be produced in Japan and was produced in countries like South Africa and Thailand.
Lastly, in 2015 the eighth-generation Hilux was launched. The main aim of this Hilux was to ‘redefine toughness’. The vehicle has a newly developed frame and suspension for improved comfort, ruggedness, and safety. The vehicle has three types of suspension specifications to suit the different conditions of the world.
Toyota has spent years improving and perfecting the Hilux to make it the best multi-purpose vehicle on the market. From going to different countries to experience different conditions to improving the interior to make it more comfortable and safer. The Toyota Hilux has truly ‘redefined tough’.
Make sure you come down and visit us at CMH Toyota Umhlanga, 1 Wilton Crescent, Umhlanga Ridge or contact us on 031 580 4000. We have friendly staff who are waiting to assist you.
