New Toyota Land Cruiser Prado First Edition: All the details…
The new Toyota Land Cruiser Prado range will include a pair of First Edition variants. Here’s what you need to know about the limited-run derivatives, from prices and features to colour options…
You’ve likely already seen our pricing-scoop story, which details exactly what the new Toyota Land Cruiser Prado will cost in South Africa. Now, just ahead of the official market launch, we’re turning our attention to the limited-run First Edition models.
Model-exclusive round “heritage” headlamps.
As a reminder, the J250-generation portfolio kicks off with the Prado 2.8 GD TX (R1 296 300), which is followed by the Prado 2.8 GD VX-R (R1 448 900). Then there’s a pair of Prado 2.8 VX-R First Edition variants, one in monotone form (R1 462 400) and the other in bi-tone guise (R1 472 600).
All models ship standard with 7 seats, while the only engine on offer locally is Toyota’s familiar 2.8-litre, 4-cylinder turbodiesel motor (1GD-FTV), which again delivers 150 kW and 500 Nm to all 4 corners (though switches from the outgoing model’s 6-speed automatic transmission to a more modern 8-speed self-shifter).
Badging on the front fender.
So, what sets the First Edition derivatives – which Toyota SA Motors says “will be made available for a limited period” – apart from the standard versions? Well, the most obvious change is the adoption of model-exclusive round “heritage” headlamps (as opposed to the rectangular units of the TX and VX-R).
In addition, while the First Edition models offered in Europe come with retro-style stickers on the rear fenders, the version built for South Africa instead features subtle “First Edition” badges on the front fenders. It also gains special mudflaps, fore and aft, complete with “Land Cruiser First Edition” lettering.
Mudflaps, complete with branding.
Despite some local images showing First Edition versions of the Land Cruiser Prado without roof rails, we believe this feature will indeed be standard. Furthermore, First Edition variants will be available in a choice of 4 exterior paint colours: Platinum Pearl White, Avant-Garde Bronze Metallic, Sand and Sand Bi-Tone (the latter featuring a white roof, making it the only derivative available in 2-tone form).
These are the 4 First Edition colour choices.
Inside, Land Cruiser Prado First Edition derivatives ship standard with brown leather upholstery (other models come with black leather) featuring model-specific piping and patterns on the front seats. Furthermore, “First Edition” logos have been embossed onto the interior door panels, while titanium trim accents have been added to the cabin. Interestingly, paddle shifters are also seemingly exclusive to First Edition models.
Other standard features for the special models (though not First Edition exclusives) include a 12.3-inch touchscreen system, a head-up display, wireless smartphone charging, seat heating and ventilation (for both the front- and middle-row seats), a heated steering wheel and power folding rear seats.
Note the brown leather and subtle titanium trim accents.
Like the VX-R, the First Edition furthermore comes standard with centre and rear torque-sensing limited-slip differentials, a stabiliser-bar control system (which allows the front stabiliser bar to be disconnected, increasing wheel articulation), Toyota’s Multi-Terrain Select, a digital rear-view mirror, gloss-black exterior door handles, gloss-black side-mirror caps and adaptive high beams.
The new Prado is underpinned by the same TNGA-F ladder-frame chassis employed by the Land Cruiser 300. Like the standard Prado, the First Edition models will come with Toyota’s 3-year/100 000 km warranty and a 9-service/90 000 km service plan.
The next generation of Golf GTI Clubsport has just been revealed and some would say this is the ultimate front-wheel-drive Golf! Here’s all you need to know.
The 2025 Volkswagen Golf GTI Clubsport has just been revealed as part of the Golf’s 50th birthday. This flagship performance offering closes the gap between the standard GTI and the all-wheel-drive Golf R.
While there’s very little wrong with the performance of the standard GTI, the Golf GTI Clubsport ups the ante with more power. The 2.0-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder petrol engine has been massaged to produce 221 kW and 400 Nm. All that shove goes to the front wheels via a 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox.
Volkswagen claims a 0-100 kph time of 5.6 seconds and a top speed of 267 kph, making it the fastest front-wheel drive Golf to date.
Visually, there’s no mistaking the Clubsport for any lesser Golf. There’s a more aggressive front end, decals on the flanks, larger Akrapovic exhausts and a great-looking spoiler on the rear. The cabin gets the same sport seats as the standard GTI, but there is a special driving mode that enhances the track-driving experience.
There’s not much technical detail yet and we expect there to be upgrades to the suspension, brakes, gearbox software. Local specifications are not yet available, but interestingly, European customers can get adaptive dampers, larger 19-inch wheels as optional extras.
Will the Golf GTI Clubsport come to South Africa?
At this stage there’s no confirmation that the GTI Clubsport will come to South Africa. What about the standard 8.5 GTI? A Volkswagen Group Africa spokesperson from the carmaker confirmed they’re still “investigating this product for our market.” We’re hopeful that perhaps this new Clubsport will touch down in the future.
The G20-gen BMW 3 Series has received a 2nd update and is due to launch in South Africa before the end of 2024. Here’s what we know about the refreshed sedan range…
Despite having benefitted from a mid-cycle refresh as recently as 2022, the G20-generation BMW 3 Series range has just been handed a 2nd update. And it’s expected to arrive in South Africa before the end of 2024.
Yes, BMW Group South Africa has confirmed that production of the updated saloon will commence in July 2024, with local availability “from the 4th quarter of the year”.
So, what will the Mzansi-spec line-up look like? Well, the German automaker’s local division says the “existing range of 1 diesel and 3 petrol engines” will be carried over (seemingly in addition to the likewise updated M340i and M3 Competition, with the new-to-SA M3 Touring also confirmed for local roads).
Based on that, the SA portfolio will again comprise the rear-wheel-drive 318i (115 kW/250 Nm), 320i (135 kW/300 Nm), 330i (190 kW/400 Nm) and 320d (140 kW/400 Nm), each employing an 8-speed automatic transmission as standard. According to the international press material, both the oil-burning 320d and the all-paw M340i (285 kW/500 Nm) will gain mild-hybrid technology, bringing an additional 8 kW to the table.
Interestingly, BMW Group SA has again opted not to launch the plug-in hybrid 330e on local shores. For the record, this PHEV model upgrades to a new high-voltage battery pack offering 19.5 kWh of usable energy, improving its claimed all-electric range to approximately 100 km. Mzansi will also again miss out on the 318d, 330d and M340d.
As you’ve no doubted already figured out, the Munich-based firm has made few changes to the 3 Series sedan’s exterior, offering only a couple of new paint colours (the Arctic Race Blue metallic finish shown here as well as a new Fire Red metallic hue) and a handful of fresh alloy-wheel designs.
However, under-the-skin tweaks include various chassis updates that ostensibly result in a “notable increase in comfort across all driving situations”. Inside, you’ll find new steering-wheel designs, “visual modifications for the instrument panel” and “modernised decorative elements”, along with fresh upholstery options.
The updated 3 Series furthermore upgrades to the latest-generation “BMW iDrive with QuickSelect”, based on BMW Operating System 8.5. Meanwhile, the interior lighting system now includes “cascade lighting” integrated into the trim around the central seam vents. There’s also a new “CraftedClarity” option, which sees the gear-selector lever, iDrive controller and start/stop button fashioned from glass.
Check back for updated BMW 3 Series pricing and detailed specifications closer to the local market launch in the final quarter of 2024…
Are you among the many South Africans looking to spend a sizeable sum of money on buying a new car? If that’s the case, Jacob Moshokoa presents a list of 5 easy steps to follow to make the buying process a lot easier, brought to you by Absa.
PARTNERED CONTENT
Cars.co.za recently hosted Yumna Mohamed – the winner of Cars.co.za Consumer Awards Roadshow competition held in Sandton City late last year – at our Johannesburg office. Yumna won R500 000 from Absa, the title sponsor of the Cars.co.za Consumer Awards, to purchase a car of her choice and our team guided her through the process by explaining the pros and cons of each of the models she considered.
We’d like to help you, the prospective new- or used car buyer, navigate your purchasing journey too, so here are the 5 steps that could save you a lot of time and hassle when you’re looking to buy a vehicle.
1. Do your research
And by this, we don’t mean flicking through our app to look at car pictures. Buying a car is a MAJOR financial commitment, so you need to understand all the aspects and pitfalls of becoming a car owner.
Ask yourself serious questions like: Can I afford this car? Does it truly suit my needs (as opposed to my wants)? What are the pros and cons of diesel vs petrol? What are the insurance and maintenance costs?
Be sure to ask the right questions (even if they seem “stupid”) and proceed calmly, armed with the knowledge that you need, so that you don’t get yourself on the wrong side of your bank manager.
2. Create a budget
Your budget needs to accurately reflect your financial situation. Are you certain that you can cover expenditures such as repayments, insurance, maintenance, registration, repairs, tyre changes and fuel?
There’s a lot to think about when buying a car and, as they say, “sometimes the maths isn’t mathsing“. However, it’s better to be realistic and get the car you need and, importantly, can comfortably afford.
3. Consider buying a pre-owned car
Granted, a used car won’t necessarily still have that new-car smell and delivery mileage on its odometer, but buying a certified pre-owned vehicle is a great way to get a good car for MUCH less than a new one.
You could even get an older-, but higher-spec model of the same car for a lot less than the new(er) one.
4. Inspect the car thoroughly
When you’re inspecting, or experiencing, a car you are thinking of buying, put your proverbial detective hat on and look for any clues that might signal bigger issues. Every ding, scrape and scratch has a story.
There’s no such thing as “just a flickering light”… some minor issues might be pointing to a bigger issue.
Don’t let anyone rush you while you’re doing your inspection. Take your time. Check everything. Oh, and don’t hesitate to ask as many questions as you need to: age of vehicle, service history and so on.
Remember any issues you discover, however small, could give you a bit of leverage in the negotiation.
And then, you MUST take the car you’re eyeing to buy out for a test drive. Put it through its paces; be wary of sloppy handling and strange noises the vehicle may emit; find out if the acceleration is normal.
5. Secure finance
Then, when you’ve found a good car that you want and can afford, do your utmost to put down a sizeable deposit when you make the purchase. By reducing that loan amount, you’ll pay less in interest over time.
Besides banks, dealerships also offer financing. See what’s on offer and accept the best deal for YOU.
Absa’s Fulufhelo Mandane discusses what you need to consider before you start shopping for a vehicle, the costs of ownership and your various finance options. Absa First-time Buyer Guide to Vehicle Finance
Absa’s Gordon Wood details how the new Aftermarket Guidelines, which were introduced in the motor industry last year, affect you as a vehicle owner. Absa’s Guide to Responsible Vehicle Ownership
New Vantage: Has Aston Martin built a visceral sportscar?
Aston Martin is in a massive transition as it undertakes new ownership that is so keen to see it flourish and become a real competitor in the ultra-luxury segment. Ashley Oldfield headed to Spain to drive the new Aston Martin Vantage, watch the video!
The Vantage has been Aston’s sportscar over the years, but it’s always sold on its good looks and ferocious engine sound. Now, it wants to compete on dynamics. Can Aston immediately compete with Ferrari, McLaren and Porsches for thrills at the apex?
We drove the latest Aston Martin Vantage in Spain on the road and on track to get a quick feel for the new model. Here’s what our in-house track ace Ash Oldfield thinks of the new Vantage. We’ll have a full review as soon as the car lands in South Africa.
Finally! GWM has listened to the fans and the Tank 300 diesel has been confirmed for production. Here are some early details.
According to a report from CarNewsChina, GWM will build a Tank 300 diesel. This is great news for potential customers as many had been put off by the lack of a torquey and efficient powertrain. While the Tank 300 HEV petrol hybrid offers commendable performance and efficiency, a modern diesel engine should prove better.
The Tank 300 Diesel should be the most economical and offer the most range between fill ups. A quick estimate suggests the diesel-powered Tank should comfortably complete over 1000 km, based on its 80 litre fuel tank capacity. In comparison, the hybrid Tank 300 claims 8.4 L/100 km and has an endurance range of 952 km.
As a reminder, Tank is Great Wall Motors offroad adventure brand and the Tank 300 is the first model to arrive locally. We’re expecting the bigger Tank 500 to touch down before the end of 2024.
Will the Tank 300 Diesel come to South Africa?
One of the biggest criticisms levelled at the Chinese manufacturers is the heavier-than-expected fuel consumption from the turbocharged petrol engines. Diesel is still a popular fuel of choice for many South African motorists and we reckon this derivative is highly likely to prove popular.
BMW M3 Competition Touring Price Announced For South Africa
The BMW M3 Competition Touring is confirmed for South Africa and we’ve uncovered pricing for this halo product.
Confirmed! The BMW M3 Competition Touring is coming to South Africa in 2024. Generally, station wagons aren’t the most popular in South Africa, with just a handful of enthusiasts showing love for things like the Audi RS4/RS6 and Subaru Outback. The meteoric rise of the SUV has all but killed the love for the humble station wagon…
However, BMW has tried to buck the trend and built the M3 Touring and when it was revealed, we were the first to admit we thought it was highly unlikely this model was going to touch down locally. Understandably so, you’d think the Munich-based brand has all the bases covered with M3 sedan, M4 coupe and X3 M / X4 M SUVs. However, good news as the BMW M3 Competition Touring is coming to South Africa!
A source close to BMW SA has shared some important details about the new BMW M3 Competition Touring with us. From our understanding and documents we’ve seen, we’ll be getting the Competition xDrive derivative which has a 3.0-litre turbocharged 6-cylinder petrol engine and it makes 390 kW and 650 Nm. The vehicle features all-wheel drive and an automatic transmission. BMW claims its Touring can sprint to 100 kph in just 3.6 seconds and it will run to a top speed of 280 kph, thanks to the M Drivers Package being included.
Customers will be able to add the M Carbon Exterior Package and M Race Track Package (carbon bucket seats, carbon ceramic brakes) as optional extras. As far as colours are concerned, there will be 9 standard colours, with 5 BMW Individual colour options to choose from. There are also four wheel designs, all of which are 19-inch (front) and 20-inch (rear) in size.
So, if you want one of these highly desirable cars, what’s your next step? We understand that stocks are limited this year, with customer allocation and orders taking place in May 2024, with production taking place in July 2024. The customer deliveries start from October 2024, which we suspect will likely coincide with the BMW flagship event, M-Fest. Don’t stress if you miss the first batch as we’ve been told more units will land in SA in 2025.
How much does the BMW M3 Competition Touring cost in South Africa?
The below price includes VAT & Motorplan, but excludes CO2 tax.
How much does it cost to replace a BMW i3’s battery pack?
Just how much would it cost to replace the entire battery pack in a BMW i3 here in South Africa? Well, brace yourselves, folks: it’s by no means a small number…
While doing research for our recently published BMW i3 Buyer’s Guide, we decided to find out exactly how much it would cost to replace the entire lithium-ion battery pack in this compelling little electric car. After all, if you’re purchasing a 2nd-hand EV, it’s a number certainly worth knowing.
Before we delve into our eye-opening discovery, here’s a quick reminder of the i3’s time on the local market (head over to the aforementioned buyer’s guide for the detailed background). This innovative electric car launched in Mzansi in 2015 in 60-Ah guise, before upgrading to a 94-Ah battery pack late in 2016 and a 120-Ah item in 2019. In each case, the battery pack comprised 8 modules, each with 12 cells.
The i3 battery pack comprises 8 modules, each with 12 cells.
Throughout its local lifecycle (it was discontinued in 2022), the i3 shipped standard with an 8-year/100 000 km battery-pack warranty. Although we understand that BMW Group SA has never been called upon to replace an entire battery pack in an i3 – the battery was developed “to last for the full life of the vehicle”, after all – we were nevertheless curious to find out the cost of this big-ticket component. Ready for the numbers? Well, brace yourself.
Armed with a VIN for a 2015 i3 (60 Ah), we approached a local BMW dealer and were presented with a whopping R432 049 battery-pack replacement cost. Even the chap in the parts department was absolutely floored by this figure. For the record, that price covers all 8 modules but doesn’t include fitment. In the case of this 2015 model, it’s also more than the estimated retail value of the vehicle itself, which no longer enjoys warranty coverage on its battery.
What about a new 8-module battery pack for a 2019 i3 (120 Ah), again confirmed using a valid VIN? Well, the price here rises to an even more frightening R483 644 (again, excluding labour and any consumables). While we unfortunately couldn’t determine a cost for a 94-Ah battery replacement, we’re guessing it would fall somewhere between the 2 figures above.
This i3, pictured with owner Shaun Maidment (right) in 2019, has so far covered 364 000 km.
Keep in mind, of course, that the modular nature of these battery packs means a faulty or failing module could be individually replaced, likely greatly reducing the bill. We should also reiterate that we’re unaware of any i3 owner in South Africa who has had to go the route of replacing the entire pack (and such an instance would surely result in an insurance write-off anyway).
In fact, South African Shaun Maidment, owner of the highest-mileage i3 in Africa, told Cars.co.za that his 2016 60-Ah model is still going strong on the original battery after a whopping 364 000 km. Indeed, our research suggests that battery degradation – never mind complete failure – has yet to prove much of an issue for the i3 on the whole, even when it comes to the early models. That said, keep in mind that degradation of any lithium-ion battery can be accelerated by various usage factors.
We’ve uncovered local prices for the new Toyota Land Cruiser Prado ahead of this J250-gen SUV’s imminent launch in South Africa. Here’s what you’ll pay…
After a short delay, the new Toyota Land Cruiser Prado 7-seater SUV is scheduled to hit the market in South Africa in June 2024. But, after some digging, we’ve managed to unearth local pricing for this highly anticipated J250-generation range, which includes a “very limited number” of First Edition units…
As we previously reported when we uncovered several details of the local line-up back in January, the local Prado range shrinks slightly – from the current 5 derivatives to 3 variants (or, technically, 4 if you include the bi-tone version as a standalone model) – largely owing to the removal of the naturally aspirated 4.0-litre V6 petrol engine from the portfolio.
The new Prado in standard guise (note the rectangular headlights).
So, it’s now an exclusively oil-burning range, with all derivatives employing the Japanese firm’s familiar 2.8-litre, 4-cylinder turbodiesel engine. In J250-series Prado form, Toyota’s well-known 1GD-FTV motor again delivers 150 kW and 500 Nm to all 4 corners, though switches from the outgoing model’s 6-speed automatic transmission to a more modern 8-speed self-shifting gearbox.
What about pricing? Well, according to our information, the Prado 2.8 GD TX again serves as the entry point to the range, though is now priced from R1 296 300. For the record, that represents a R127 900 increase over the outgoing version (the J150-gen Prado’s pricing bookends having been pegged at R1 168 400 and R1 376 400).
The spare wheel is no longer mounted on the tailgate.
From what we understand, the new 2.8 GD TX loses its centre limited-slip differential but gains a more comprehensive anti-theft system, as well as added safety features such as tyre-pressure monitoring, parking sensors, blind-spot monitoring, lane-trace assist, adaptive cruise control and additional airbags.
Like all variants in the new range, the 2.8 GD TX derivative comes with a black finish for its front bumper, grille, side-mirror caps, rear bumper and wheel-arch mouldings. Inside, however, it switches from a leather-and-fabric combination to straight leather (while also dropping its traditional handbrake lever in favour of an electric version).
The interior of the SA-spec VX-R derivative.
With the outgoing range’s VX and VX-L trim levels scrapped, the new Prado 2.8 GD VX-R specification is up next. Priced from R1 448 900, this grade adds items such as a moonroof, a heated steering wheel, a cooler box, wireless smartphone charging and adaptive high-beam headlamps. It appears to do without adaptive variable suspension but scores a rear and centre torque-sensing limited-slip differential.
Finally, there’s the Prado 2.8 VX-R First Edition, which will be available “while stocks last”. There are technically 2 versions of the First Edition – one in monotone form and the other in bi-tone guise – each based on the VX-R specification. First Edition models will be easily recognisable thanks to their circular headlamps. The monotone variant is priced from R1 462 400, while the bi-tone derivative starts at R1 472 600 (a premium of R10 200).
First Edition headlamps are round.
First Edition variants are offered in a choice of 4 exterior paint colours: Platinum Pearl White, Avant-Garde Bronze Metallic, Sand and Sand Bi-Tone (the latter featuring a white roof). Meanwhile, TX and VX-R models will also be available in Platinum Pearl White and Avant-Garde Bronze Metallic, along with Glacier White, Attitude Black, Black and Smokey Grey.
As a reminder, the new Prado is underpinned by the same TNGA-F ladder-frame chassis employed by the Land Cruiser 300. For the record, the 5-strong Land Cruiser 300 portfolio is currently priced from R1 458 900 to R2 095 100. See full new Prado prices below…
How much does the new Toyota Land Cruiser Prado cost in SA?
Land Cruiser Prado 2.8 GD TX – R1 296 300
Land Cruiser Prado 2.8 GD VX-R – R1 448 900
Land Cruiser Prado 2.8 GD VX-R First Edition – R1 462 400
Land Cruiser Prado 2.8 GD VX-R First Edition Bi-Tone – R1 472 600
The new Prado will ship standard with Toyota’s 3-year/100 000 km warranty and a 9-service/90 000 km service plan.
Toyota South Africa Motors has finally introduced the Hilux GR Sport III, replete with a striking widebody kit and uprated suspension that amplifies the bakkie’s off-road capability. Gero Lilleike attended the local launch to put the newcomer to the test.
Even though the 8th-gen Toyota Hilux is now in the twilight of its product lifecycle, it remains a stalwart of the highly competitive leisure double-cab market – and the Hilux GR Sport III is its new halo model.
Nonetheless, Toyota’s widebody GR Sport III has arrived to stamp its authority on the bakkie market! We joined Toyota South Africa Motors (TSAM) at the GR Sport III’s media launch event in George, Western Cape, to experience the locally assembled newcomer in the metal and to put its capabilities to the test.
What sets the Hilux GR-Sport III apart from a standard Hilux?
A bold, purposeful look is backed by notable off-road capability.
The Hilux GR Sport III was conceived, first and foremost, as an off-road-biased double-cab bakkie (it’s only offered in 4×4 guise) and its mechanical enhancements primarily serve that purpose.
But it also looks the part… The new Hilux GR Sport III is distinguishable by its chunky widebody kit, including large over-fenders and a beefy bumper, all of which considerably enhance its visual appeal.
Other styling enhancements include a unique black grille with TOYOTA lettering, a silver underbody bash plate and a tubular sports bar, which is an SA-specific feature (an aero bar is fitted in other markets).
Notably, the widebody Hilux GR Sport III stands 2 020 mm wide, making it 30 mm wider than a standard Hilux (1 900 mm), while also standing some 20 mm higher by comparison.
With its wider footprint and uprated suspension, the Hilux GR Sport III is ready to tackle any challenge.
Moreover, the Hilux GR Sport III’s tracks have been increased by 140 mm (front) and 155 mm (rear) to enlarge the bakkie’s footprint, thereby improving its on-road manners, specifically in terms of handling (but more about that below). The revisions are also said to provide greater stability when the Toyota – fitted with BFGoodrich all-terrain tyres (265/65 R17) as standard – traverses major off-road obstacles.
From a mechanical standpoint, the GR Sport III’s suspension and braking system have been beefed up; Toyota says new monotube dampers offer better off-road performance than the previous twin-tube units.
As far as engine outputs are concerned, Toyota’s familiar but uprated 2.8-litre 4-cylinder turbodiesel produces peak outputs of 165 kW and 550 Nm of torque (compared with the standard 2.8GD-6 engine’s figures of 150 kW and 500 Nm) and is exclusively paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission.
Any changes to the interior?
A few GR-specific details are included but the GR Sport III’s interior is very familiar.
The interior architecture of the Hilux GR Sport III is carried over from the standard Hilux, but the cabin has been enhanced with a combination of suede and leather trim. GR badges appear on the steering wheel (with a red 12 o’clock marker), seat headrests, carpets and of course, on the engine start button.
Red seatbelts add further contrast to the cabin and Toyota has fitted “Technical Mesh” inserts to the dashboard and door cards to further differentiate the newcomer from its standard Hilux stablemates.
In terms of infotainment, Toyota’s Display Audio touchscreen setup features Android Auto and Apple CarPlay functionality, while superb sound delivery comes courtesy of a 9-speaker JBL audio system.
As expected, the perceived build quality of the Hilux’s interior is admirable; it has a level of solidity that buyers will appreciate. Nonetheless, the Hilux’s cabin design/architecture shows its age, especially when compared with the new Ranger. Our biggest gripe is the shortage of USB charging ports in the Hilux – there is only one! So, be prepared to fight other passengers for “charge juice” on those longer trips.
During the launch event, we drove the Hilux GR Sport III on various road surfaces (tar, as well as dirt) and even on dunes, all of which gave us a fairly good opportunity to experience the capability of the bakkie.
The added width of the GR Sport III is immediately noticeable when you’re seated behind its ‘wheel, so much so that you need to be extra vigilant when cornering with – or parking – the double-cab (to avoid incurring unwanted scuffs and bumps). The wider tracks and revised suspension setup do, however, contribute to a more “planted” driving experience; the bakkie’s handling exhibits notably less body roll.
Overall ride comfort, especially when driving on tarred roads, has improved too. Considering that the bakkie is fitted with large all-terrain tyres, we were expecting them to generate higher levels of road noise (compared with the tyres fitted to a standard Hiluxes), but we were pleasantly surprised by the Hilux’s impressive sound deadening, which contributes to a higher level of driving refinement.
Better stability on dirt roads
And, when traversing dirt roads, the Hilux’s improved road holding/stability instils more confidence than before. Having said that, while we applaud the improved suspension setup, the ride quality still degrades markedly over rough and/or uneven dirt roads. When the Hilux is not carrying cargo in its load tray, the bakkie’s rear does become quite jittery, particularly over corrugations, but that’s par for this segment.
On a private beach on the outskirts of Jeffreys Bay in the Eastern Cape, we made the most of an opportunity to test the rugged Hilux’s sand-driving ability. With tyre pressures reduced to 0.8 bar and low-range engaged, the convoy of Hilux GR Sport III units set off into the dunes for some sandy fun.
The Hilux’s off-roading prowess truly came to the fore; it made light work of soft sand and glided along with minimal exertion of the powertrain. The dunes may have been no match for the GR Sport III, but we look forward to putting the bakkie to the test on a technical 4×4 course as part of a more detailed review.
Well-proven engine offers great power/efficiency balance
Toyota’s venerable – but uprated – 2.8-litre 4-cylinder turbodiesel, remains a highlight of the GR Sport III package. Not only is it refined i.e. not as noisy as some other engines in this segment, but in combination with a 6-speed automatic transmission, it delivers meaty performance. Its ability to dish out mid-range acceleration is excellent – and rather useful when you need to execute urgent overtaking manoeuvres. Any off-road vehicle worth its salt needs a strong engine and the Hilux GR Sport III doesn’t disappoint.
Moreover, the “tried and tested” GD-6 motor still strikes an admirable balance between performance and economy. Our GR Sport III unit was given a proper workout during the event, yet its trip computer showed fuel consumption figures of around 10.2 L/100 km. In normal driving conditions, we would expect to see figures of between 9.5- and 10 L/100 km, which would be impressive for any double-cab 4×4 bakkie.
Who should consider buying the new Hilux GR Sport III?
Priced from R999 000, the new Hilux GR Sport III will appeal to Toyota 4×4 loyalists who are looking for a distinctively packaged Hilux with added off-roading capability “fresh from the factory”. Not only does the GR Sport III look purposeful, but its mechanical upgrades have elevated the bakkie’s on-road handling and off-road ability. As for engine performance, reliability and after-sales support, the Hilux is sorted.
The widebody GR Sport III rivals Ford Ranger double-cab derivatives such as the 2.0 BiTurbo Tremor 4WD (R978 600) and 2.0 BiTurbo Wildtrak X 4WD (R1 040 600). Buyers considering these products are best advised to arrange test drives to determine which of the derivatives is most suitable to their needs, as there are styling and specification differences between them that could sway their buying decision.
Overall, the Toyota Hilux GR Sport III is a welcome and competitive addition to the Hilux range – one that is likely to fulfil most of the dyed-in-the-wool 4×4 enthusiasts’ requirements. For just under R1 million, the “Widebody” makes a strong case for itself; even if it’s based on an ageing model, you should add it to your shortlist if you are looking for an off-road-biased double-cab 4×4 with head-turning looks.
