Toyota’s flagship Hilux 4WD SR5 Cruiser is getting performance and safety upgrades thanks to a wider track and a new suspension for models due here in the fourth quarter of 2022.
The new dual-cab wide track Hilux 4WD SR5 Cruiser boasts a track increase of approximately 140mm in the front and rear. The vehicle’s ride height has also been increased by around 20mm. Both changes aid off-road capability while also improving on-road performance and safety, the company says.
Toyota NZ new vehicles general manager Steve Prangnell says the introduction of the updated Hilux demonstrates the brand’s dedication to offering ever-improved vehicles for customers.
“The new wide track Hilux 4WD SR5 Cruiser adds even more value and performance to our range. It provides not only improved off-road capability, but also, and importantly for New Zealand drivers, a more stable and comfortable driving experience on the open road with increased braking performance,” Prangnell says.
“Continuous improvement is a key facet of Toyota’s philosophy and has been clearly achieved by this latest premium Hilux model.”
To accommodate the track increase, Toyota engineers overhauled the Hilux suspension by extending the front suspension arm and front stabiliser bar length and adjusting the shock absorber angle to improve efficiency.
At the rear, axle length has been extended, dampers have been moved further out towards the wheels and, for the first time on Hilux, a rear stabiliser bar has been installed to enhance cornering stability and ride comfort.
As a result of the suspension changes, roll rigidity has been enhanced by 20%, improving steering feel when cornering and changing lanes.
Stopping power has also been upgraded, with new rear ventilated disc brakes replacing the existing drum brakes for enhanced braking performance – also a first for Hilux. The new 17-inch front disc brakes have been enlarged by one inch.
To house the increased track width, wider over fenders and mud flaps have been installed, while the front body extension has also been widened to integrate with the front bumper and fog lights.
Additional safety features for the new wide track Hilux 4WD SR5 Cruiser include Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) and Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), which extend the existing SR5 Cruiser safety package.
