Australia’s best-selling ute will receive a performance upgrade later this year, while a new off-road variant will soon be on its way.
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Toyota has confirmed a new off-road apex variant will replace the Rugged X
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Significant performance and capability upgrades will feature in new Toyota HiLux Rogue models and updates to the SR and SR5 range, the manufacturer has confirmed.
Toyota Australia has also confirmed a new top-of-the-range apex off-road variant will replace the Rugged X – with details including launch timing to be revealed at a later date.
The enhancements to the 2023 dual-cab HiLux Rogue models have seen the ute become wider, with a track increase of 140mm at the front and rear. The changes, which will also see the ride height increase by 20mm, will help the vehicle’s offroad ability and on-road performance.
“The significant suspension upgrades to the HiLux Rogue not only improve off-road capability but create a more stable and comfortable on-road driving experience,” says Toyota Australia vice president sales, marketing and franchise operations, Sean Hanley.
“Continuous improvement is a key facet of Toyota’s philosophy and has been clearly achieved by this latest HiLux premium model.”
Roll rigidity has been improved by 20 per cent too, as engineers have had to overhaul the suspension on the Rogue models to accommodate the bigger vehicle. The front suspension arm and front stabiliser bar length have both been extended, while the shock absorber angle has also been adjusted to better enhance driving efficiency.
A rear stabiliser bar has been installed for the first time on the HiLux range in a series of changes to the rear of the vehicle, including a longer rear axle and changes to the dampers, which have been moved further out towards the wheels.
Other improvements to the Rogue variants include ventilated disc brakes replacing the existing drum brakes on the rear, while the front disc brakes have been enlarged to 17-inches. Wide track over fenders and mudguards have been installed.
On the SR, extra-cab and double-cab models will be fitted with 17-inch black alloy rims along with door handles which match the vehicle’s body colour for what Toyota says is a ‘more premium look’.
SR5 double-cab models will benefit from extra safety equipment as standard including a blind-spot mirror and rear cross-traffic alert. The equipment will also be included on Rogue models.
A panoramic view monitor drive assist system has also been added to the SR5. Puddle lamps, which replace heated exterior mirrors, and a new ID Box anti-theft immobiliser, which comes on automatic SR5 graders and above, and replaces the steering column lock, are further upgrades on the SR5.