Rugged Toyota Hilux GR-S III Arrives In South Africa
The Toyota Hilux lineup has grown to accommodate the new GR-S III. This muscular-looking bakkie blends a powerful turbodiesel engine with rugged looks and GR-exclusive interior touches. The Hilux has always been one of South Africa’s most loved bakkies; this desirable iteration will undoubtedly cement that further.
Under the bonnet, you’ll find a powerful yet frugal 2.8-litre, four-cylinder turbodiesel engine that develops a substantial 165 kW and 550 N.m of torque. Power is sent to the drive wheels via a slick-shifting automatic transmission. Toyota has made several changes to the GR-S, with stronger brakes than lesser models. The front and rear brake discs now measure 17 and 15 inches, increasing stopping performance.
The imposing stance comes courtesy of a 20 mm boost in the ride height, which has improved the off-road abilities. The approach angle has increased from 29 to 30 degrees. There’s a 140 mm tread increase at the front and 155 mm at the rear, resulting in the Hilux’s athletic appearance. Toyota says the suspension now provides a “smoother and more stable” ride quality. New black-painted 17-inch wheels are wrapped in all-terrain tires to improve grip when venturing off-road.
Toyota’s Hilux GR-S is perfect for adventurous types. The bakkie can tow up to 3,500 kg while the payload capacity is limited to 1,000 kg. Building on the handsome looks of the standard Hilix, the GR-S takes things to the next level with its flared wheel arches and model-specific styling touches. This includes a black-painted G mesh grille with the classic ‘Toyota’ name logo, a silver underguard protector, a black rear bumper, and GR logos.
And it doesn’t stop there. Climb aboard the Hilux GR-S, and you’ll find that the cabin has also been littered with an array of special touches. Toyota has chosen a black monochromatic interior theme with red accents to underscore the sporty persona of the new Hilux variant. Other racy details include red-coloured seatbelts, silver stitching, and perforation for the suede/leather-trimmed sports seats. Speaking of the seats, Toyota says they provide optimal grip and comfort - just what you want when venturing off-road.
Equipment levels are high. An eight-inch touchscreen display controls the vehicle’s multimedia features, which include wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Audiophiles will be delighted to know that the GR-S ships standard with a JBL sound system. For that added sporting touch, the leather-covered sports steering wheel receives paddle shifters for the automatic gearbox, providing the driver with manual control over the transmission.
As for cost, you can expect to pay R999,000 for the Hilux GR-S. That price includes a three-year/100,000 km warranty and a nine-service/90,000 km service plan.
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FAQ
Q: What does the Toyota Hilux GR-S III cost in South Africa?
The Toyota Hilux GR-S III is priced at R899,900 in South Africa, positioning it as a premium offering in the bakkie segment with its enhanced performance capabilities and exclusive GR styling.
Q: Is the Toyota Hilux GR-S III worth buying?
The Hilux GR-S III is absolutely worth buying if you need a bakkie that can handle serious work and weekend adventures with equal competence, offering 165 kW of power, 3,500 kg towing capacity, and genuine off-road credibility.
Q: How much power does the Hilux GR-S III make?
The Toyota Hilux GR-S III produces 165 kW and 550 N.m of torque from its 2.8-litre turbodiesel engine, making it one of the most powerful bakkies in the South African market.
Q: What's the difference between the Hilux GR-S III and regular Hilux models?
The GR-S III features 20 mm higher ride height, stronger brakes with 17-inch front discs, flared wheel arches, black GR styling elements, all-terrain tyres, and exclusive interior trim with red accents.
Q: Can the Hilux GR-S III tow heavy loads?
Yes, the Toyota Hilux GR-S III can tow up to 3,500 kg with a payload capacity of 1,000 kg, making it suitable for hauling boats, trailers, and other heavy equipment.
Should You Buy It?
The best premium bakkie under R900,000 in South Africa is definitely the Toyota Hilux GR-S III at R899,900. This is a clear yes if you want a bakkie that doesn't compromise on capability or style. With 165 kW on tap, genuine off-road improvements, and Toyota's legendary reliability, it's the perfect choice for anyone who needs a workhorse that can clean up nicely for weekend braais. Sure, you'll pay a premium over the standard Hilux, but the GR-S III's enhanced performance, exclusive styling, and improved ride quality justify every rand of that R899,900 price tag.
