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30 May 2018 · New Vehicles

HiLux Rugged X, Rugged and Rogue Review

The nation’s favourite vehicle just got even stronger. Introducing the HiLux Rugged X, Rugged and Rogue.

These three new variations on the nation’s favourite workhorse sit at the top of the regular range and launch the HiLux into a whole new territory. Toyota’s design and development program has resulted in the introduction of three new flagship models that take the already unbreakable range to a new level, adding a sense of style, strength and capability that hasn’t been seen before.

So, what does this new range hold?

Well, first the basics. Each model comes with central locking, a digital clock, cruise control, power steering, electric windows and air-conditioning. Across the board, the entertainment system includes a sound system with six speakers, touch screen with radio, CD player, MP3 capability, USB and Bluetooth.

All three models are 4x4, each running a turbo diesel drivetrain with a 2.8L 4-cylinder diesel engine. You’ll find 130kW of horsepower and the torque varies from 420Nm in the six-speed manual transmission models, up to 450Nm in the automatic gearbox. Towing ability is 3.2 tonnes for the auto and 3.5 tonnes in manual.

Additionally, all models feature electronic stability control, trailer sway control, seven airbags and reverse cameras.

Taking a closer look at each model, first up, we have the HiLux Rugged, build on the base of an SR model.

The Rugged is kitted out with a tonne of hardcore Toyota genuine accessories – including a heavy-duty hooped premium steel bull bar, snorkel, heavy-duty steel rear bar with integrated step, a towbar, towball and tongue, rear recover points, side rock rails, black body side mouldings, a black sports bar with multiple tie-down points and a tub liner with tailgate protection. Plus, the Bridgestone Dueler all-terrain tyres ensure the Rugged is ready for some serious offroad action.

Jumping to top of the range, we have the Rugged X, which is based on the SR5.

Like the model it’s based on, it features all the high-spec inclusions, such as smart key, push-button start, dual zone climate control, LED driving lights and a broad light bar (perfect for night-time driving). You’ll find a premium interior, with rubber floor mats and black perforated leather-accented seats that include seat heating and electric adjustment. A new dash and instrument cluster design, adds style and ensures you’ll have all the information you need for any adventure. The chrome sports bar of the SR5 has been swapped for a black one which is also now load rated. Primed for adventure the Rugged X has been fashioned to maximise approach and departure angles and includes 17-inch alloys, a revised grille design, heavy-duty steel rear bar with integrated step, side rock rails, snorkel and towball and tongue (with seven-pin flat trailer wiring harness). And to make this model stronger than ever, it includes a high-tensile alloy front bar and bash plate, front and rear recover points, underbody protection, and a streamlined hoopless bull bar.

If you’re planning to take the Rugged X into its natural habitat, you’ll find low-range and high-range ratios, a rear differential lock and an enhanced cornering angle, that now approaches 50 degrees. Plus, the addition of underbody protection and recovery hooks enhance the ute’s offroad suitability, ensuring the Rugged X is tough to the task.

You’ll enjoy the feeling of knowing that many of these components have been designed exclusively for these three models and aren’t available to purchase individually. Plus, knowing that the majority of these additional accessories have been locally designed, manufactured, installed and tested in a three-year process, adds to the peace-of-mind that comes with the Toyota name. And because these are Toyota Genuine Accessories, they are backed by a three-year warranty, which is something that might not be matched in non-genuine parts.

Last, but certainly not least, we have the HiLux Rogue.

Like the Rugged X, the Rogue is based on the SR5. But unlike both the Rugged and Rugged X, it takes a different approach, and brings a sense of sophisticated urban style to the range.

Whilst the Rogue has the same interior as the Rugged X, for all the similarities on the inside, they are just as different on the outside.

The Rogue features 18-inch rims and debuts a new ‘premium style’ front bumper and hexagonal grille. It also features the grey-painted rear bumper with larger step, towball and tongue (with seven-pin flat trailer wiring harness), a black sports bar with tie-down points and a body coloured hard tonneau colour and carpet tub liner. The combination of which leads to a sportier-looking version of Australia’s favourite ute.

Whether you’re looking for the perfect partner for some serious off-roading or a vehicle that looks just as at home on the week-day commute as it does tackling the dunes, there is something in the new flagship range for you.

Colours for the range include Silvery Sky, Graphite, Crystal Pearl, Eclipse Black, Inferno and Glacier White (non-metallic).

With only 6,000 units available across Australia this year, these unbreakable HiLux’s are expected to sell out fast. So, get in quick and book a test drive at New Town Toyota today.

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