Toyota has come a long way in producing an array of Hilux versions in the market, with the appearance of its first model in 1968.
Not much different from its predecessor (the 2.5G variant), the new 3.0 singles itself out from the previous Hilux models as it is equipped with some modern features like the Optitron Meter and Multi-Information Display.
Known for its utilitarian structure, the manufacturer has upped its game in the pick-up territory by placing a deeper emphasis on its look.
New alloy rims combined with its rear combination lamp design as well as a darker interior colour and new centre cluster design speak of the newer Hilux variants.
More importantly however, the new 3.0 offers driving enthusiasts more power due partly to its larger displacement and intercooler. If you ask me, versatility would be a more appropriate version of the Hilux since the pick-up could be taken both off and on-road.
Taking on the body and weight of the vehicle itself, don’t be fooled by the size of this so-called ‘truck’ as handling was much easier than it might appear to be. Doubt as the newly ‘advanced and tough’ version of the Hilux, the 3.0 was light for its size and the ride — dynamic and easy.
Although I did not have the opportunity to really take the vehicle off-road, my short experience on some muddy and rather hard trails told me that the 3.0 managed to live up to its appointed characteristics.
As the engine roared to a start and as I moved comfortably with the rhythm of the car, I felt more authoritative than I’ve ever felt driving other vehicles. The high-positioned model coupled with its masculine and robust design made me feel substantial and ‘in-charge’ so to speak. You could say I’ve forgotten some of my road manners while driving the Hilux.
Setting the gear on an automatic transmission, I found the acceleration to be smooth, fast and impressive for a car this big. The 3.0 gave a good run for its money as it came with good torque at a range of 1,400 to 3,200 revolutions per minute (RPM).
Heavy? Surprisingly not. For a petite gal like me, I had firm but yet easy control of the vehicle. Its durable but agile movement on the road impressed me very much.
Though the big body made it seem tricky to manoeuvre through smaller roads and parking in tight spots, I was compensated with two larger than average side mirrors and thankfully, a rear view camera that gave me a fuller view of my background.
Its DVD Audio-Video Navigation (DVD-AVN) System and Reverse Camera endowed me with features that proved convenient whilst on the road. The 6.1” touch screen interface had with it a built-in navigation map which covered surprisingly not only Malaysia, but Singapore and Brunei.
Add to this was its audio and MID switch fixed on its steering wheel, allowing me to control my music at the tip of my hands and preventing me from fiddling with the player while driving.
Built not just for the alpha male segment of the market, its body, though high in height, did not make it difficult for me to glide into. The lower deck as compared with other huge vehicles was convenient for a short driver like myself. Most of the time, I did not even have to use the deck to lift myself up (saves the hassle!). Moreover, as I could adjust the seat, I could structure myself comfortably and drive the pick-up like it was a sedan.
However, the appeal would in my opinion still cater to the ‘macho’ crowd as the handbrake handling was rather challenging for me.
Putting into perspective, with all the features embodied within the Hilux 3.0, it seemed apparent that despite the ‘rough edge’ that Hilux represented, the 3.0 was a vehicle that was surprisingly easy to handle, even for a small-framed driver like myself. I could honestly compare the driving experience to one of an SUV or an MPV, minus the added safety features that the latter possessed.
Drivers could consider crossing over to the Toyota Hilux 3.0 due to its versatality coupled with its spacious loadbay that could fit a lot more things than a normal SUV would.
