2021 Toyota Hilux facelift debuts more power, subtle changes that matter

Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) is on a roll as it launches a new model yet again. The 2021 Hilux is the latest new model from TMP and it’s packed with a boatload of features that could pose a great challenge to its segment rivals.

2021 Toyota Hilux Philippines Quick Look: Subtle changes that matter

The Philippine-spec Toyota Hilux is a pickup truck that comes with a triple threat specialty that includes: aggressive exterior updates, smarter tech goodies, and more punching power under the hood. Indeed, the 2021 Hilux is ready to go head-to-head with its competitors.

The 2021 Toyota Hilux

The exterior of the 2021 Hilux comes with a more aggressive design, bolder presence, and a more composed stance. It seems that Toyota’s pickup truck made good use of the community quarantine and did its homework to rival its competitors such as the Mitsubishi Strada, Ford Ranger, Isuzu D-Max, among others.

The fascia of the new Hilux is fitted with a massive grille along with sharp-looking headlights and a large bumper. Exclusive to the Hilux Conquest variants are the bi-beam LED headlamps and LED rear combination lamps with line guide, and sports bar with LED lamps.

>>> Related: Toyota Hilux Rugged X, Rogue could be your dream pickup build

The 2021 Hilux looks aggressive at every angle

Turning at the side, the new Hilux still comes with the familiar character lines as seen on the outgoing model. However, this pickup truck gets beefier and more prominent fender flares, which in turn gives the Hilux a muscular appeal.

Look at that C-shaped taillight cluster

The rear gets a new distinctive C-shaped taillight cluster, which looks better as compared to the design of the previous model. The taillights of the 2021 Hilux also appear to be larger in size as compared to the outgoing version. Rounding up the design changes is the slightly revamped bumper.

The interior layout of the new Hilux looks similar to the old model. No significant design changes were made in terms of its layout as it still has the same dashboard design, same steering wheel, and center console. But don’t be deceived by what you initially see in the cabin because this Hilux is equipped with a better infotainment system.

It now gets an eight-inch multimedia touchscreen that comes standard with Apple Carplay and Android Auto, and it also comes with a hands-free function. The said multimedia touchscreen is standard in the following variants of the 2021 Hilux: Conquest, 4x2 G, and 4x2 E.

The 2021 Hilux gets an updated 8-inch multimedia touchscreen

The instrument cluster of the Toyota Hilux 2021 also gets an update. It now comes with a higher resolution graphics and it shows the pickup truck’s steering angle, as well as the proximity distance of the Hilux around obstacles. On the other hand, the instrument cluster fitted to the Conquest variants comes with chrome trim around the dials along and blue graphics.

Rear passengers get enough legroom

Safety-wise, the Hilux has a tailgate assist (for Conquest variants) and downhill assist control. TMP says the new Hilux comes with SRS airbags (seven for the 4x4 Conquest AT variant), anti-lock brake system with brake assist and electronic brakeforce distribution. It is also equipped with vehicle stability control, and hill-start assist control.

On the other hand, Conquest 4x4 variants also have Downhill Assist Control and Active Traction Control. In addition, clearance sonars are available for Conquest while back sonars are available for G grades, and the reverse camera is available for Conquest variants.

Under the hood, the 2021 Hilux comes with more punching power as it gets the new 2.8-liter diesel engine that can put out 201 hp and 500 Nm of torque for the automatic variant, and 420 Nm for the manual. The old 2.4-liter diesel engine is still available among the power unit options of the 2021 Toyota Hilux. Meanwhile, the 4x2 Conquest, G, and E variants get the 2.4-liter 2GD-FTV engine with 148 hp max output, and 400 Nm max torque.

2021 Toyota Hilux's sharp-looking headlights

TMP is offering the new Hilux in 13 variants with a starting price of Php 843,000 for the Cab & Chassis trim. The top-of-the-line Conquest 4x4 AT variant, on the other hand, comes with a sticker price of Php 1,830,000. The New Hilux will be available in all of TMP’s 70 dealerships across the country by September 14, 2020 for the Conquest, G, and E variants, while the Hilux Cargo variant will be available on October 26, 2020.

Here are the variants and prices of the 2021 Toyota Hilux:

Visit Philkotse.com to get more of the latest automotive news.