New HiLux models designed and engineered in Australia.
Toyota’s three new “halo” HiLux variants due in April 2018 have a strong Aussie accent due to an extensive development program carried out by the company’s Melbourne-based designers and engineers.
Aimed at off-road enthusiasts, the comprehensive upgrades that result in the new HiLux Rugged and Rugged X variants were designed, engineered and validated in Australia with support from the parent company in Japan and Toyota in Thailand.
The development program involved computer simulations, prototype manufacture, bench testing and real-world evaluation to confirm strength and durability of the vehicle and individual components.
Heading the new models, HiLux Rugged X lives up to its name by incorporating a high-tensile alloy bash plate, winch-compatible steel front bar, LED driving lights, recovery points, rock rails, load-carrying sports bar and other heavy-duty components.
It is joined by HiLux Rugged, which is focused on toughness and off-road performance. It provides enthusiasts with an ideal vehicle for getting off the beaten track that its aggressive front-end design, including a steel bull bar.
A third new model, the premium and sporty HiLux Rogue was styled by the Australian design team and developed in close collaboration with Toyota engineers in Thailand.
The dynamic and recreational styling of the Rogue is tailored to many markets around the world – another example of the strong capability that exists within Toyota’s local operation.
Toyota Australia’s product planning and development general manager Rod Ferguson said the HiLux project highlighted the local team’s capability to develop engaging models that address the specific requirements of Australian buyers.
“Our team understands local customer usage and tastes, the extremes of our local environment as well as requirements for off-road use, unsealed roads and the challenges of dust and water crossings,” Mr Ferguson said.
“They have developed these high-strength components and integrated them fully to build on the strength and durability of HiLux while maintaining the performance of key safety systems,” he said.
“For example, the Rugged X bash plate is made from high-tensile alloy, significantly improving protection from rugged terrain while minimising weight increase. Local engineering and testing also ensures it works in conjunction with the steel front bar and existing underbody protection.”
Mr Ferguson said the project was a logical extension of the local team’s work in producing the HiLux Tonka concept, unveiled in March 2017.
He said the new models also benefited from the Australian team’s extensive involvement in developing the current-generation HiLux, including suspension, underbody protection, tuning of electronic safety systems and 650,000km of local testing.
“It was natural for our team to focus on HiLux: it’s Australia’s best-selling vehicle and owners customise their HiLux more than any other model in our range.
“In the spirit of the concept car, we’ve further enhanced the off-road toughness of the already highly capable HiLux.
“Australian buyers will also appreciate the peace-of-mind knowing that these new vehicles have been developed to Toyota’s rigorous standards, will be certified to Australian Design Rules and attract full warranty coverage,” Mr Ferguson said.
Source: Toyota
Image: HiLux Rugged X – developed locally to suit Australian tastes (pre-production model shown)
