Toyota revives TRD Hilux

No one ever accused the Toyota Hilux of being prissy, but a new styling kit from its TRD (Toyota Racing Development) sub-brand gives the best-selling ute some aggressive appeal, if not extra performance, to match its ‘unbreakable’ reputation.

For less than $4000, the TRD kit is available for buyers of the range-topping Hilux SR5 double cab, with leather-accented interior trim and either black or white exterior paint.

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It transforms the ute’s appearance with just 15 components, most noticeable being the red TRD-branded front skid plate, which contrasts with the black TRD branded grille, lower bumper cover and fender flares.

Black mouldings are added to the leading edge of the bonnet and along the side including the wheel arches that house all-new 18-inch black six-spoke alloy wheels.

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The black theme continues at the back with the sports bar, ute liner, soft tonneau cover, taillight covers and TRD mudflaps.

The interior receives minor touches including TRD carpet floor mats and, for automatic variants, a TRD gear knob.

Unlike previous TRD Hilux upgrades such as the 4000SL in 2008, there are no performance tweaks to go with the new aesthetics, with the SR5’s 130Kw/420Nm 2.8-litre turbo-diesel engine sitting behind the TRD branded grille with a choice of six-speed manual or automatic transmissions.

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Other SR5 standard features include climate-control air-conditioning, cruise control, satellite navigation, power-operated driver’s seat, reversing camera and display audio system with DAB digital radio and auto-levelling LED headlamps.

And despite the glam, you’ll still be able to take it off-road with rear differential lock, electronic transfer case, vehicle stability and traction control, trailer sway control, hill-start assist control and for automatic models, downhill assist control.

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Prices for the SR5 Hilux with TRD accessories start at $58,990* for white paint and manual transmission, $3000 more than the standard SR5.

Toyota Hilux SR5 Pricing*

• Hilux SR5 manual - $55,990
• Hilux SR5 manual, white paint with TRD kit - $58.990
• Hilux SR5 manual, black paint with TRD kit - $59,540
• Automatic transmission +$2000

*Manufacturer list prices