Toyota Hilux 7

Appeared in 2005, the new generation of Toyota Highlux has received many significant technical changes. There is no competition in the class of off-road pickups.

Review

Appeared in 2005, the new generation of Toyota Highlux has received many significant technical changes. There is no competition in the class of off-road pickups. The requirements of potential customers for pickup trucks are quite clear. They expect long and trouble-free operation even when fully utilizing the capabilities of the vehicle, which is actually quite common. In addition, owners rely on good off-road abilities and the possibility of tuning.

So what? Is the new Hilux an exclusive “vatovoz” or a real practical jeep? Is he ready to meet all the requirements? Toyota’s motto is to combine reliability and comfort. Therefore, the pickup did not receive any dynamic engines or complex equipment. However, this approach has proved to be a loser. Competitors offered much more advanced technology. As a result, Toyota had to make a number of changes. First of all, increase the engine power and increase the level of equipment.

The new seventh generation of the pickup truck was built on an improved frame. Toyota claimed that thanks to her, the rigidity of the body increased significantly. Which in turn affected the stability of the body and reduced the noise level in the cabin. The cross-sectional area of the side spar has increased by 75%: the height has increased by 2 cm, and the width by 3 cm. Engineers also worked to reduce the number of welds.

The new body has grown significantly, became more practical and streamlined. Significant updates touched and chassis: there was rack steering.

Engines

The engine went to the pickup truck from its predecessor without changes. This is a turbodiesel with a modern injection system "Common Rail". But the power is not impressive – only 102 hp. Even in 2005, that was very little. A 2.5-liter 102 hp turbodiesel? That sounds unattractive! Drivers who prefer dynamics and spend a lot of time traveling on the roads, this version is better to avoid. Up to 100 km / h, such a pickup truck accelerates in an infinite 18 seconds! Much more pleasant dynamics in later versions with 120 and 144 strong versions of the engine. But the 2.5-liter turbodiesel has its advantages. For example, it's very economical. On the highway, it is possible to achieve a result of 6.5-7 l / 100 km. The engine also enjoys its elasticity. Transmissions can be safely turned on, even if the turnover has fallen below 1500 rpm. But for more dynamic movements, it is better to use a version with a 3-liter turbodiesel. This modification was originally completed with a 4-speed automatic, and later 5-th. However, many pickup owners are more interested in reliability. In this regard, Toyota engines performed quite well, but not ideally. Many units (mainly 120-horsepower modification with intercooler) were equipped with a defective turbocharger. Some of them were replaced as part of warranty repairs. In the event of a turbocharger failure, it is much cheaper to repair it. The cost of a new turbocharger at official dealers exceeds 100,000 rubles. Fortunately, the nozzles do not cause many problems. But quite often the clutch wears out after 50,000 km.

Transmission

Hard-wired front axle is one of the main drawbacks of the car. The all-wheel drive system cannot be used on paved roads, for example, on asphalt. The VSC electronic assistance system was installed only in expensive trim levels. Fans of Toyota Highlux can take advantage of the offer of the German brand Nestle, which for 3400 euros offers a set for the installation of a central differential with a full lock.

A few transmission problems are found in cars whose owners abused all-wheel drive on hard surfaces, for example, on asphalt. Automatically connected coupling – the privilege of more expensive modifications.

Walking

In terms of handling and stability, the Hilux is quite tolerable, but in the field of comfort, it lags slightly behind the competitors. One of the conditional disadvantages of the chassis is the creaking of the rear springs. The stabilizer struts and steering thrust are quite hardy. Thanks to the large suspension, the pickup truck feels quite confident off-road.

Interior and equipment

Inside the Toyota Highlux can be different. It is enough to list the possible types of upholstery chairs. The basic version is covered with vinyl. In more expensive configurations, materials are slightly better. And the SR5 version on the velour seats. The top variations can boast of skin. The same is true of equipment. The basic versions have 2 airbags and ABS. There could be 6 pillows in total. There are also copies without comfortable additions.

However, more often there are decently equipped specimens with a full electric package and air conditioning. Climate control appeared only after restyling in 2008. The number of seats depends on the cabin. Some have a wide seat next to the driver's seat, designed for two people. But it's gonna be cramped for two of you in a seat like this. In the enlarged cabin, the rear seats should not be counted heavily: there is cramped and uncomfortable. In the double-row cabin, the back sofa is already quite comfortable.

Transportation

In terms of cargo capacity, Hilux is middle class. In the body, it is able to carry up to 800 kg of cargo and pull a trailer weighing up to 2250 kg. It's not really much. Even less takes on board the rear-wheel drive modification of 2WD. But we should not count on it, as it is poorly adapted to our conditions.

Typical problems and malfunctions

The body has one unpleasant drawback - low corrosion resistance. Foci of corrosion are found around the windows, on the doors and the cover of the cargo compartment. For frequent off-road trips, the frame should be further protected from corrosion.

Among other malfunctions, we can note problems with the generator (from 13,000 rubles), rubbing the tubes of the air conditioning system, wear of the supports and crosses of the driveshaft. Oil leaks through the coils of the front bridge were sometimes found already after 20-30 thousand km. Over time, the transfer box begins to leak.

Review

• The requirements of potential customers for pickup trucks are quite clear.
• They expect long and trouble-free operation even when fully utilizing the capabilities of the vehicle, which is actually quite common.

Engines

• Some of them were replaced as part of warranty repairs.
• In the event of a turbocharger failure, it is much cheaper to repair it.
• Fortunately, the nozzles do not cause many problems.

Transmission

• A few transmission problems are found in cars whose owners abused all-wheel drive on hard surfaces, for example, on asphalt.

Typical problems and malfunctions

• The body has one unpleasant drawback - low corrosion resistance.
• Foci of corrosion are found around the windows, on the doors and the cover of the cargo compartment.
• For frequent off-road trips, the frame should be further protected from corrosion.
• Among other malfunctions, we can note problems with the generator (from 13,000 rubles), rubbing the tubes of the air conditioning system, wear of the supports and crosses of the driveshaft.

Toyota has met its expectations. Hilux is a good car. But it is better not to consider it as an alternative to an SUV or crossover. This is a real truck.

• Overview: The requirements of potential customers for pickup trucks are pretty clear.
• Engines: Some of them were replaced as part of warranty repairs.
• Powertrain: A few transmission problems are found in cars whose owners have abused all-wheel drive on hard surfaces, such as on asphalt.
• In terms of handling and stability, the Hilux is quite tolerable, but in the field of comfort it lags slightly behind the competition.
• Interior and equipment: Inside the Toyota Highlux can be different.
• In terms of cargo capacity, Hilux is middle class.
• Typical problems and malfunctions: The body has one unpleasant drawback - low corrosion resistance.

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