Toyota Refreshes Hilux and Fortuna for 2020

Toyota Refreshes Hilux and Fortuna for 2020

What are the major updates to Hilux and Fortuna?

The 2.8L “halo” engine gets a power boost to 150kw/500Nm. In addition, the 6-speed automatic transmission has been tweaked. There is also a 2.4 diesel and 2.7L petrol engine. 2.8L has the most power and torque.

Hydraulic power steering gains electronic control. It allows for variable tuning, including a special mode for off-roading. They says hydraulic is best for off-roading. It allows the right amount of “feel”.

Suspension got a thorough going over. Previously, the ride was quite firm without a load on. Toyota claims ride is now as good with or without a load. We will be the judge of that.

The front end had been renewed with new bi-LED headlights. The grille, bumper and lower valance are more deeply carved. Some models get a cool new bashplate under the front end with TOYOTA emblazoned across it.

Upper Hilux models get LED taillights with a distinctive dual C shape.

The cabin gains subtle updates to trim. Audio systems now include a larger 8” touch screen with physical buttons for major functions, and JBL on posh models. Importantly, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto have finally made it into the country’s best-selling SUV. Hoorah!

Rogue gets a cool new power operated tray roller-cover. It secures gear within the tray without the need for additional locking tonneau cover.

Additionally the driver’s LCD now includes a digital speedo.

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Will there be a hybrid Hilux like that coming to New Zealand?

Sean Hanley said nothing is ruled in or out, but there are no plans currently. Sean is a canny operator, and never paints himself into a corner, but we might read in to that, that as Toyota is a leader in hybrids, that if it works well in NZ, we might follow sooner rather than later. Sean said the current drivetrains provided the best real-world applications. It is difficult to see how that is the case without buyers having any other choices.

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ABOVE: 2020 Hilux

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ABOVE: 2020 Hilux

Has Toyota fixed the DPF issues which are the subject of current court proceedings?

While not able to comment on current matters, Sean Hanley said that Toyota was among the top 3 most trusted automotive brands in Australia. He went on to say that Toyota would “always be there for customers”. In other words, they “can’t comment in specifics,” except to say the new model definitely has it sorted.

Has Toyota got too many SUVs?

In short, Sean Hanley says, “No.”

While the answer was short and sweet, he went on to say that Toyota constantly monitors customer feedback. In fact, there are additional models, Yaris Cross and Corolla Cross coming soon.

Have Hilux and Fortuna Prices Changed?

Yes, prices have changed. There are 35 variants in all. Prices start from $23,590 for the 2.7L Workmate, to $62,420 for SR5+. Details for Rugged X and Rogue yet to be released.

Has Towing capacity increased with the power output?

Yes, towing now 3,500kg. Sway control is standard. Vehicle payload is 1,275kg. Extra power in the 2.8L engine pays off when it comes to shifting gear.

What ANCAP rating does Hilux have?

Hilux has been with us since 2015 in the current generation. ANCAP retested Hilux in 2019 and awarded 5 stars for safety. The changes for 2020 have not affected the 5-star rating, which remains current.

What’s the 2020 Hilux and Fortuna like to drive?

In the COVID era, car launches are conducted on-line. We will review both cars as soon as possible.

Toyota says both cars have improved ride and handling. Body mounts, the rubber bushes connecting the cabin to the ladder chassis, have been tuned. In addition, Hilux received attention to the rear leaf springs. This, along with steering improvements, are slated to have taken Hilux to a new level. We will judge this when we get them on the road.

Has Hilux finally got rear drum brakes?

No. Hilux still has drum brakes around back, sadly.

Is Fortuna worth having with such low sales?

Toyota placed Fortuna as a diesel alternative to Kluger. Therefore, it has a place, they say, in the model line-up. Sean Hanley says Fortuna also allows entry level buyers to enter the range if they can’t stretch to the much more expensive Prado and LC200’s such as Sahara.

Engines:

• 4cyl, turbo diesel 2.8L 150kw, 500Nm (auto), 420Nm (man)

Fuel econ: 7.5-8.1 combined (depending on model, and engine)

CO2: 197-212 g/k (depending on model)

• 4cyl, turbo diesel, 4L 110kw, 400Nm

Fuel econ: 9.9-7.8 combined (depending on model, and engine)

CO2: 182-206 g/k (depending on model)

• 4cyl, Petrol, 7L 122kw, 245Nm

Fuel econ: 10.4-11.1 combined (depending on model, and engine)

CO2: 241-259 g/k (depending on model)

Trans: 5 or 6 sp manual, 6 sp automatic (depending on model)

Body styles

Body styles: cab chassis, pick-up dual cab, pick-up extra cab