Manufacturers making model-year improvements is nothing new. Given how far pick-ups have progressed over recent times, however, could Toyota’s enhancements for this MY22 Hilux make the truck a viable replacement for a family SUV that’s sometimes put to work – especially in top-spec Invincible X trim?
Looking at the extra equipment for 2022, the Hilux features some kit that SUV buyers would be envious of, so…
Manufacturers making model-year improvements is nothing new. Given how far pick-ups have progressed over recent times, however, could Toyota’s enhancements for this MY22 Hilux make the truck a viable replacement for a family SUV that’s sometimes put to work – especially in top-spec Invincible X trim?
Looking at the extra equipment for 2022, the Hilux features some kit that SUV buyers would be envious of, so it seems good so far. The range is now available with a panoramic top-down camera monitor to help parking this 5.3-metre-plus pick-up, while there’s also dual-zone climate control, an auto-dimming rear-view mirror, improved connectivity with remote fault diagnosis and service reminders (both handy on a working vehicle) and e-call safety tech.
The Invincible X gets lots of other kit, too, including Toyota’s Touch 2 with Go multimedia set-up – although Android Auto or Apple CarPlay might be a better bet, because the basic system isn’t as good as that found in Toyota’s latest passenger models. Part-electrically adjustable heated seats and 18-inch alloys are also included. But then, at £44,835 including VAT – or £37,420 if you can claim the VAT back – you’d expect the equipment list to be good. Toyota Hilux 2022
We would say the same on the move. While the chassis is soft, the rear axle in particular can judder over bumps, especially when the bed is unloaded. It does feel more settled with some weight on board, however – as we found out during a trip to the tip.
The 2.8-litre four-cylinder turbodiesel is agricultural but characterful, and at least having 500Nm of torque means strong performance (for a pick-up), along with an impressive 3,500kg towing capability and a 1,025kg payload. Boasting a maximum 1.54 metres across the load bay and 1.53 metres from bulkhead to tailgate, the load space is a good, uniform shape, too.
This 2.8-litre pick-up addresses the lacklustre 2.4-litre model’s issues, because the 0-62mph sprint takes only 10.7 seconds. However, the shift on the automatic gearbox is sluggish, so it’s best to settle to a leisurely pace, keep the revs – and therefore noise – low and enjoy the high-set driving position; the Hilux’s slow steering means it’s not the most agile machine, either.
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