The ninth-generation Hilux will reportedly have a GR Sport (GR-S) variant and could be introduced as early as next year, according to a report published by the South African publication Cars.
The news of a possible new Hilux GR-S came from Toyota South Africa President and CEO Andrew Kirby, who reportedly said that there’s a possibility that the GR-S version of the new Hilux could be introduced in South Africa “next year sometime.”
Kirby added that the yet-to-be-confirmed model would be “an exciting product.” However, the Toyota executive did not directly mention that the new exciting product that would arrive sometime next year would be the new Hilux GR-S. As such, nothing is set in stone just yet, and we’re still waiting for Toyota’s official announcement.
The return of the Hilux GR-S could likely be determined by whether it has market demand. The all-new Hilux sits on the same but refined platform as its predecessor. It still has the same Toyota IMV (Innovative International Multi-purpose Vehicle) platform, which is due to the platform’s build quality, long-term durability, dependability, off-road capability, ownership costs, and safety standards. That said, integrating the all-new Hilux with the wide GR-S body kits could not be much of an issue.
Of note, the previously offered Toyota Hilux GR-S in the Philippines comes with a tougher design through a wide-tread body, matte black GR-S overfenders, 17-inch alloy GR design wheels with all-terrain tires, and the GR Aero sports bar. The old Hilux GR-S is also wider by 120mm and taller by 65mm than the standard trim. Overall, the exterior of the Hilux GR-S features a more rugged look.
The old Toyota Hilux GR-S also comes with GR front and rear disc brakes with GR brake calipers, and monotube shock absorbers, enhancing the truck’s overall driving experience on or off the roads. Under the hood, the previous Hilux GR-S is equipped with a 2.8-liter diesel engine that delivers 221 horsepower and 550 Nm of torque.
Autocar’s Take
The all-new Toyota Hilux could have a GR-S variant as early as next year, according to a report from South Africa. This could be good news for those who prefer to have a more aggressive-looking Hilux that’s also integrated with a retuned suspension system, making the truck’s ride smoother and better on or off the roads. While nothing is official yet as of this writing, Toyota could be gauging market interest when it comes to the possibility of offering the ninth-gen Hilux with a GR-S treatment. Could it still have market appeal, considering the current fuel prices, especially in markets such as the Philippines?
