The Dakar Rally-inspired 2022 Toyota Hilux GR Sport has made its way to Indonesia, previewed for the first time at the ongoing Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show (GIIAS).

First launched in Thailand in 2021, the Hilux GR Sport packs additional aesthetic bits and interior upgrades, to give it an edge against other lifestyle-centric pickups such as the Ford Ranger Wildtrak and Mitsubishi Triton Athlete.

Also read: Closer look: Thailand's 2021 Toyota Hilux GR Sport

In terms of aesthetics, the 2022 Hilux GR Sport gets a revised front bumper and grille fascia bearing the “Toyota” script, instead of a Toyota logo.

The GR Sport package further highlights certain trim elements of the front grille, foglamp garnish, side mirrors and parts of the overfenders in gloss black.  

The overfenders themselves are wider for a bolder stance, and to accommodate new 18-inch alloy wheels. Additionally, red GR brake callipers feature at the front. 

Round the back, the Hilux GR Sport gains a sports bar and rear bumper that is finished in gloss black. The GR Sport package adds subtle badging on the front grille, rear tailgate, and vinyl graphics.

In Thailand, the 2022 Hilux GR Sport is equipped with perforated suede seats with red synthetic leather highlights, however, the GIIAS 2022 display unit was closed off to media during the preview.

Also read: With 224 PS and 550 Nm, 2022 Toyota Hilux GR Sport is a Dakar-inspired match for the Ford Ranger Raptor

Elsewhere, the Thai-spec Hilux GR Sport features contrast stitching on the steering wheel, a sport pedal set and unique ‘GR’ startup graphics on the instrument cluster.

Under the hood, there are no changes to the 1GD-FTV 2.8-liter turbodiesel four-cylinder, which generates 204 PS and 500 Nm. Power is distributed to all four wheels through a six-speed automatic transmission equipped with paddle shifters.

Perhaps the biggest change of the Hilux GR Sport is a set of upgraded monotube shock absorbers which is claimed to improve the overall handling and stability of the pickup.

Having been launched in Thailand, the 2022 Hilux GR Sport now takes one step closer to Indonesia following the GIIAS 2022 preview, thus begging the question of whether the 2022 Hilux GR Sport will join the GR lineup in Malaysia soon too.

Also read: Hailak represent! Badass Toyota Hilux ready to kick dust at its rivals at the 2022 Dakar Rally

Current prices of the 2022 Toyota Hilux (double-cab variants) in Malaysia are as follows:

• 2.4 E (MT) 4X4: RM 110,880
• 2.4 E (AT) 4X4: RM 111,880
• 2.4V (AT) 4X4: RM 136,880
• 2.8 Rogue (AT) 4X4: RM149,880