The new Toyota Hilux arrives in Europe, unchanged but with more power

The pick-up market seems to be something reserved for the American market, where this type of vehicle is sought after more frequently. In Europe, on the other hand, other types of commercial vehicles seem to be more popular, such as the covered vans we are so accustomed to. But the reality is that pick-ups are very useful, especially for work in the countryside, and although it may not seem so, they are quite widely used on our continent.

One of the most popular options is the proposal from Toyota, the Hilux. It has only recently been presented and started to be sold in Asia and Australia, and will soon arrive in America, but first it will reach the European market. It arrives on the continent with a configuration that does not differ much from the version already presented, although some adjustments have been made to adapt it to European regulations and make it as efficient as possible in this market.

In Europe, around 36,000 units of this model were sold during 2014, a figure representing a market share of 23.5%, although with this new generation both figures are expected to increase. The target is set at 40,000 units, which would represent a considerable increase in the percentage.

To achieve this, the new Hilux features a scaled, completely new and stronger chassis. The exterior structure has also been reinforced and the off-road capabilities of the van have been improved, as well as the cargo area, which has also undergone some modifications to make it more practical and efficient.

The interior has also received changes compared to the previous version. It features new driver assistance systems and the interior is more comfortable, with comfortable seats and a better-designed and conditioned cabin structure.

Among the technical equipment of the Hilux, we find the inclusion of ABS, EBD, VSC and Trailer Sway Control (TSC). Its payload capacity is 3.2 tonnes, a figure that also improves on the previous version.

As for the engine, it comes in two versions, a 2.4-litre and a 2.8-litre. The first delivers 148 CV and 400 Nm of maximum torque, while the second provides 177 CV and 450 Nm, figures that go hand in hand with an improvement in consumption and polluting gas emissions.