Toyota Hilux review

While the Toyota Hilux isn’t the cheapest of pick-ups out there, it’s certainly competitive against the Ford Ranger and Nissan Navara, although the Ssangyong Musso is a less expensive option. The Hilux is also available with competitive finance deals and, as mentioned, along with all of its competitors, benefits from a flat rate tax cost that makes it more tempting, if not even cheaper, than a regular company car.

If you’re after a Single or Extra Cab model, the only trim available is Active. This workmanlike spec still gets some luxuries, though, including auto headlights, adaptive cruise control, heated electric mirrors, air con and even a front cool box. 

The next step up is Icon which gains alloy wheels, a chrome grille, front fog lights, side steps and a leather steering wheel. The infotainment system we mentioned earlier (with DAB radio and reversing camera) is also added, plus cruise control and fabric rather than wipe-down PVC seats.

Invincible models get bigger wheels, a handy wiper de-icer, keyless entry and climate control. Importantly, there’s also the option of the gutsier 2.8-litre engine, making it our pick. The top trim is Invincible X which offers additional plastic cladding, blue ambient lighting, heated leather seats up front and sat-nav. With this trim, you automatically get the 2.8 under the bonnet.

Toyota’s Safety Sense package, featuring automatic emergency braking and lane departure warning, comes as standard giving the Hilux a maximum five-star Euro NCAP rating with the best protection from injuries in the class. The Mitsubishi L200 is rated at four stars while the Ranger’s results are too old to be comparable because the testing regime is regularly updated and made more rigorous.

Toyota has a fantastic reputation for dependability, with the brand coming third overall in our 2020 Reliability Survey. Its five-year or 100,000 mile warranty is better than the Ranger’s, although the Musso’s seven-year or 150,000 mile warranty trumps all.

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