2021 Toyota Hilux GR Sport arriving in Japan in October – Will Malaysia get it?
CY Foong · Jun 8, 2021 01:00 PM
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South African model shown
The Toyota Hilux is the definitive pick-up truck in Malaysia and some fans might be anticipating the arrival of a GR Sport variant. After all, giving the Hilux the Gazoo Racing treatment as seen in the Vios could enhance its sportiness.
Yes, it outsold the Vellfire in Japan
Well, Japanese media had recently reported that the Hilux GR Sport (GR-S) is expected to be launched in Japan by October 2021. Interestingly enough, the Hilux sold more units than the Camry and Vellfire in the Land of the Rising Sun in March and April 2021 with a total of 1,920 units.
Currently, the Japanese-spec Hilux is only available with two variants, X and Z. Both variants are powered by a 2.4-litre diesel engine (150 PS/400 Nm) and paired to a 6-speed automatic.
But enough about how well the Hilux sales are in Japan, you’re more interested in what’s in the upcoming Hilux GR-S. Toyota did offer the Hilux GR-S in a few markets for the pre-facelift model, including South Africa and South America.
Brazillian model shown
Based on the scoop by Japanese media, the Hilux GR-S will get some visual enhancements including exclusive GR Sport decals, some underbody cladding, and a front grille with TOYOTA spelled out in full.
South African model shown
Apart from these visual enhancements, the Japanese-spec Hilux GR-S will also receive an enhanced suspension set-up along with GR-badged front brake calipers. It is said that the new suspension would improve off-road driving performance as well as on-road comfort.
For the interior, the Hilux GR-S would see more GR badges on but not limited to the gear shift knob, pedals, as well as leather seats. Also adding to the performance look are the paddle shifters.
South American model shown
The GR-S will take over the Z variant’s position as the highest variant of the Hilux in Japan. Hence, it will be equipped with some features not available on the Z variant, including an 8-inch infotainment display and a panoramic view monitor.
South American model shown
Production for the Hilux GR-S will begin in August in Thailand according to the same Japanese source. However, based on info from our Thai colleagues at AutoFun Thailand, the Hilux GR-S would be exclusive to Japan for now.
Now, Malaysian fans might be a bit disappointed with that piece of news but recall that the JP-bound Hilux GR-S will be powered by a smaller engine than the top-of-the-line Hilux Rogue. The latter is powered by a 2.8-litre diesel engine (204 PS/500 Nm).
Perhaps Malaysia could be offered a more special version of the Hilux GR-S in the future? The variant is also planned to arrive in the Philippines and Vietnam sometime soon.
Traded advertising for a career that fits his passion for cars. Enjoys spotting cars during his free time and has a soft spot for Japanese Kei cars but drives a thirsty manual sedan.
