Toyota’s eight-generation Hilux was introduced about four years ago, so it’s too early to talk about the successor. Usually, the Japanese car manufacturer introduces the next-gen model every 10 years, but that’s not going to be the case this time. Instead, the completely redesigned workhorse will be ready in less than two years from now. More precisely, it’s going to be introduced as the 2022 Toyota Hilux.
At the moment, the new-gen Hilux is in the early phase of development, so we still have nothing official regarding the truck. Still, we’ve got a few interesting information about the truck thanks to our insider.
A New Plant For The Pickup Truck
First of all, the Japanese carmaker will move the production of the Hilux at one more location. They’ve started working on a new plant in Myanmar already, and the entire investment is going to cost nearly $53 million.
New Platform And Better Ride Quality For The 2022 Toyota Hilux
According to our insider, the 2022 Hilux will ride on a completely new platform. The pickup truck will switch to the company’s upcoming F1 architecture which will underpin Toyota’s entire pickup truck fleet and all body-on-frame SUVs. The shared-platform will reportedly make the successor lighter, more rigid, and compatible with new technologies. Also, the redesigned pickup will lose its usual leaf-sprung rear suspension in favor of something better. Unofficially, the next-gen Hilux will get either a coil-spring or air-spring rear suspension, so you can expect smoother ride irrespective of the choice. Today’s Hilux is stuck with hydraulically assisted steering which negatively affects the truck’s dynamics. Luckily, that’s not going to be the case with the successor as it’s going to be hooked to an electrically assisted steering rack in order to provide better maneuvering.
Redesign And Features
Allegedly, the 2022 Toyota Hilux will undergo a radical exterior redesign. Interestingly, word on the street is that this new model is going to grow in length too, but that’s not official at the moment. Of course, the pickup truck will implement the company’s latest tech, including a new and more responsive infotainment system with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto smartphone integration. We expect the latest available Toyota Safety Sense suite to be standard for all trim levels.
Engine Options And Transmission
Judging by the latest reports, the overseas Tundra pickup truck is getting a plug-in hybrid powertrain soon. Well, that might be the case with 2022 Toyota Hilux as well, though this one won’t exploit as powerful setup as it’s the Tundra’s future 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 hybrid that pumps out 450 horsepower (355 kW) in total. The Hilux PHEV will likely get a smaller shot of electric adrenaline instead.
As for the 2022 Toyota Hilux Diesel, well, the oil-chugging model will stay loyal to a pair of turbodiesels. Though, both of them, a 2.4-liter and a 2.8-liter mill will most definitely deliver extra power when the redesigned truck hits the dealerships. The pickup will add a few more gears too. Yes, the automaker will introduce a new 8-speed auto gearbox.
Stay tuned for updates.
