Tow-ready, top-spec Toyota HiLux from $70K

The range-topping new 2020 Toyota HiLux Rugged X and Rogue dual-cab utes have been revealed, with aggressive new design elements and extra equipment accompanied by significant price rises of up to $6500.

The Australian-developed torch-bearers of the updated Thai-built Toyota HiLux range bring a number of new features including a motorised remote-control tray roller shutter for the Rogue and a steel front bumper with integrated LED light bar for the Rugged X.

The new 2020 Toyota HiLux Rogue is priced at $68,990 plus on-road costs, representing a hefty $6500 price increase, while the top-of-the-line Rugged X automatic now pushes up $5500 to start from $69,990 plus ORCs.

The manual version of the Rugged X has gone, meaning the price of entry to the flagship has climbed $7500, while the previous non-X-rated HiLux Rugged has also been dropped.

The new Toyota HiLux Rogue and Rugged X are due to arrive late in November, however Toyota Australia has advised that this schedule might change given both variants are partly assembled in Melbourne which is still under heavy restrictions due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Just as price rises have hit the rest of the 2020 Toyota HiLux range, as well as other models such as the new Toyota Yaris, the company says the increases reflect currency fluctuations, improved equipment and technology levels, and more powerful and efficient powertrains.

As already seen on the broader HiLux range, the Rogue and Rugged X now benefit from a more potent version of the 2.8-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine that boosts power and torque by 20kW and 50Nm, to 150kW and 500Nm.

Towing capacity has increased from 3200kg to 3500kg with the update, and both HiLux Rogue and Rugged X are fitted as standard with a towbar, tow ball and tongue, along with a seven-pin flat trailer wiring harness ready to go from the showroom floor.

Standard convenience features on both models include an 8.0-inch touch-screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality, a premium JBL nine-speaker sound system, new-look instrument cluster with digital speedo (via central 4.2-inch screen) and leather-accented seats with grey inserts.

Both models also get blue LED illumination for the door trim and instrument dials.

The front seats are heated, while the driver’s seat now has eight-way power adjustment. There are new floor mats, too: carpet for the Rogue, and all-weather for the Rugged X.

In line with the facelifted HiLux SR5 models, front and rear parking sensors are included along with a reversing camera, and plenty of new safety systems such as autonomous emergency braking (with pedestrian and cyclist detection), high-speed active cruise control, brake-based lane departure assist and an advanced road sign assist system that updates speed limits in real time.

Seven airbags, downhill assist control and trailer sway control are also part of the package.

Rugged X features

As the hero model in the HiLux range, the Rugged X is designed for off-roading and comes with heavy-duty front springs, a snorkel with reversible head, plus red-painted front and rear recovery points and heavy-duty rock rails (aka side steps).

There’s a unique sports bar at the back with multi-purpose attachment points, along with a moulded tub tray, tailgate protection and a heavy-duty rear bumper with an integrated step.

The most noticeable upgrade is the steel bumper up front, while the integrated bash plate and LED light bar also return for active duty.

The new grille and bumper were designed and engineered in Australia at Toyota’s Melbourne-based product development and conversion centre, and have been integrated to work with the radar and camera system that run the adaptive cruise control.

The design also maximises engine cooling performance.

HiLux Rugged X comes with 17-inch alloy wheels, flared wheel-arches, and new decals at the front and rear end.

HiLux Rogue features

While the Rogue still has a switchable 4WD system with a locking diff, and should be proficient off-road, it maintains its position as a less extreme off-road machine.

The new motorised roller cover for the tub reflects the fact that the Rogue is more likely to carry equipment that needs protection and security than, say, dirt bikes.

Toyota claims a new standard has been set with the locally-designed roller cover, which features high levels of dust protection and weather-proofing, remote power operation for opening and closing and a cargo-protection system.

It also has an anti-jam function, integrated lighting and anti-theft design features.

The Toyota HiLux Rogue also comes with a new-look sports bar with a sailplane-inspired look made possible by using resin-based material (plastic) instead of metal.

Up front, a re-sculpted front bumper and grille provide an Americanised appearance reminiscent of bigger pick-up trucks like the Toyota Tundra.

Adding to this impression is a bold lower bumper, under-guard section, pumped wheel-arches with unique mouldings and 18-inch alloy wheels.

“The expertise of our local teams has ensured these two fully-fledged models offer more power and torque, more relaxed towing and overtaking in all conditions, sharper steering and handling, and suspension refinements that deliver excellent ride quality in all conditions,” said Toyota Australia’s head of sales and marketing, Sean Hanley.

“They also incorporate an in-demand array of locally designed, developed and tested components that enhance capability and style: premium features on the ‘work and play’ HiLux Rogue and serious off-road protection and recovery for Rugged X.”

As with the rest of the Toyota HiLux range, the Rogue and Rugged X are backed by a five-year/unlimited-kilometre warranty (160,000km for vehicles used in a commercial capacity).

Capped-priced servicing pegs the first six scheduled services at $250 each.

How much does the 4x4 dual-cab Toyota HiLux cost?
Cab-chassis
Workmate 2.4 auto – $47,290
Workmate 2.8 manual – $48,510
SR 2.8 auto – $50,660
SR5 2.8 auto – $58,420
SR5+ 2.8 auto – $60,920

Pick-up
Workmate 2.4 manual – $46,790
Workmate 2.4 auto – $48,790
SR 2.8 manual – $50,010
SR+ 2.8 manual – $52,010
SR 2.8 auto – $52,160
SR+ 2.8 auto – $54,160
SR5, 2.8 manual – $57,920
SR5+ 2.8 manual – $60,420
SR5 2.8 auto – $59,920
SR5+ 2.8 auto – $62,420
Rogue 2.8 auto – $68,990
Rugged X 2.8 auto – $69,990

* Prices exclude on-road costs

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