James Martin, the celebrated chef and car enthusiast, recently shared his admiration for the Toyota Hilux, a vehicle he considers one of his favorites. Known for his impressive collection valued at around £5 million, which includes brands like Ferrari and Bentley, Martin’s endorsement of the Hilux has drawn attention to this long-standing model. The Hilux, a reliable workhorse since its debut in 1968, has become an iconic pick-up truck globally. With the launch of its ninth generation, including an all-electric version, I took the opportunity to test an eighth-generation model to assess its performance and features.
Specifications and Features
For this test, I drove the Invincible X 2.8 Double Cab variant in Titan Bronze. Priced at approximately £40,270.83, this robust vehicle features a 2.8 litre (2,755cc) in-line four-cylinder engine, delivering 204 bhp. The power unit supports all-wheel drive through a six-speed manual transmission, equipped with two engine modes: power and eco. This configuration allows the Hilux to tow an impressive 3.5 tonnes thanks to its substantial 420Nm of torque. Its load bay capacity rivals competitors like the Isuzu D-Max V-Cross, enabling it to carry just over a tonne.
Performance-wise, the Hilux boasts a 0 to 62 mph acceleration in just over ten seconds, a top speed of 109 mph, and fuel economy figures ranging from 28 mpg to 35 mpg.
Interior and Driving Experience
Upon entering the Invincible X, drivers are greeted by a blend of traditional and modern design elements. The vehicle retains a classic three-pedal layout and handbrake, complemented by a central touchscreen that, while functional, is noticeably smaller than those in many contemporary vehicles. The screen’s reliance on buttons can be somewhat inconvenient, particularly when attempting to deactivate features like lane assist.
Driving the Hilux reinforces its identity as a pick-up truck. It is not designed for high-speed cornering, but it excels in its intended purpose. The manual gear change enhances the driving experience, and the engine in power mode offers a responsive acceleration, especially out of slow corners. The steering provides good feedback, allowing the driver to sense the vehicle’s dynamics.
All models include selectable four-wheel drive, and switching to two-wheel drive can improve control during cornering. While the Hilux handles well, it features a somewhat stiff suspension, resulting in a slightly bouncy ride.
However, a notable issue arose with the automatic high beam activation feature. While designed to enhance safety by switching on high beams in low-light conditions, the system proved problematic in urban settings, frequently toggling the lights on and off near street lamps. This minor annoyance highlighted a scenario where human judgment may be preferable to automated systems.
Conclusion and James Martin’s Take
In summary, the Toyota Hilux stands out as a dependable and robust pick-up truck, worthy of serious consideration for those in the market. Despite some operational frustrations during the test, its enduring popularity is clear.
James Martin himself expressed his fondness for the Hilux in an interview with SL.Man, stating, “I’ve got a Toyota Hilux pickup truck that I absolutely love – you can chuck everything in it and it will go forever. All my mates take the mick: ‘So you’ve got all these cars, but you drive around in a pick-up truck?'”
Overall, the Hilux earns a respectable rating of 7.5/10, reflecting its strengths and minor quirks.
