Toyota TRD HiLux Premiere (AU)

Toyota TRD HiLux at Brisbane Motor Show

At Brisbane Motor Show

By Frank de Leeuw van Weenen
February 1, 2008 12:16 PM
Filed Under: Japanese, Toyota

At Brisbane Motor Show

We have seen the TRD HiLux Concept almost a year ago, and anticipation for the production version has been growing ever since. Toyota's TRD (Toyota Racing Development) department primarely focussed on the 241 kW TRD Aurion, but the TRD HiLux performance ute has come along nicely and made its official show debut at the Brisbane International Motor Show in Australia yesterday.

The Toyota TRD HiLux is powered by a 4.0 liter V6 engine producing at least 225 kW (just over 300 hp) with more than 400 Nm of torque. Alongside the powerboost, the TRD HiLux has a new suspension system, brakes that suit the new power levels and a body kit, which is in line with the TRD Aurion.

"When we call it a performance ute, we are not just talking about a power boost of more than 25 per cent and a lift in torque of almost 20 per cent. TRD has also applied its expertise to the suspension, brakes and styling to produce a complete performance package.” said Sean Hanley, Toyota regional manager.

Whether the TRD HiLux will ever make it out of Australia is not known, and what TRD will work on next is still a mystery.

Source: Toyota

Press Release (Click to expand)

TOYOTA PREVIEWS TRD HILUX

The Brisbane International Motor Show today featured the motor-show preview of Toyota Australia's TRD HiLux performance ute. Going on sale during the second quarter this year, TRD HiLux pumps out at least 225kW and more than 400Nm from its supercharged 4.0-litre V6 engine.

Toyota regional manager Sean Hanley said Brisbane was chosen for the preview of the latest TRD model because of the popularity of HiLux in Queensland. "HiLux has just become the best-selling vehicle in Queensland, so we believe there will be huge interest in the TRD HiLux," Mr Hanley said. "When we call it a performance ute, we are not just talking about a power boost of more than 25 per cent and a lift in torque of almost 20 per cent. TRD has also applied its expertise to the suspension, brakes and styling to produce a complete performance package. What is really impressive is that the TRD enhancements to the HiLux were conceived, developed and carried out right here in Australia."

Mr Hanley said TRD HiLux will create an entirely new market segment - a unique combination of sports performance and real-world practicality. "TRD HiLux is a great workhorse vehicle during the week for transporting tools, hauling a trailer and coping with the roughest terrain. When the weekend arrives, its performance and handling can be used by the whole family - carting dirt bikes and other gear, or towing a boat. Best of all, the TRD enhancements have - if anything - further improved the off-road abilities for which HiLux is renowned."

TRD HiLux will be the second vehicle in the TRD line-up, following the launch in August of the 241kW supercharged TRD Aurion. The two TRD vehicles share a strong family resemblance in their styling cues. TRD stands for Toyota Racing Development - the long-established umbrella for Toyota motorsport activities around the world.

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