Toyota Hilux GR-S III Vs. Legend RS 2.8 GD6 48V - Which One Should You Buy?
With a staggering 45 models in the lineup, the Toyota Hilux has one of the most comprehensive vehicle ranges offered in South Africa. There's something for everyone from the entry-level 2.0-litre single-cab S to the R1,023,400 range-topper. Here, we’re focusing on the most desirable versions: the newly introduced GR-S III and the mild-hybrid Legend RS. If you’ve got around R1 million to spend, which one should you buy? Let’s compare the two.
Beginning with the powertrains, both models are powered by the tried and tested 2.8-litre four-cylinder turbodiesel engine. In the GR-S, it develops 165 kW and 550 N.m of torque, resulting in solid performance. The more expensive Legend RS is available with a mild-hybrid diesel engine. Despite the advent of electrification, the Legend RS produces 150 kW and 500 N.m of torque. The superior fuel economy makes up for the power deficit. While the GR-S III has a claimed fuel consumption figure of 8.7L/100 km, the Legend RS (with MHEV tech) averages 7.4L/100 km. The Legend RS also has a lower C02 rating - 209 g/km compared to the GR-S III’s 229 g/km. Both vehicles have a top speed of 175 km/h and send their power to all four wheels via a six-speed automatic transmission.
When evaluating the styling, more apparent differences are evident. The GR-S and Legend RS are handsome-looking machines, but the GR-S III arguably has more presence. This is down to the wider stance, flared wheel arches, raised ride height, and model-specific details. These include the old-school Toyota logo font for the front grille, black-painted 17-inch wheels, a brace of GR logos, and a silver-colored front under guard. Taller and broader than the Legend RS, the GR-S III stands 1,880 mm tall and 2,020 mm wide. The Legend RS is 1,815 mm tall and 1,900 mm wide. This may not sound like a big difference, but the GR-S has a more menacing presence.
That’s not to say the Legend RS is dull - far from it. It’s more subtle than the GR-S, but the Legend RS 48V gets unique bumpers and 18-inch wheels. The Legend RS also claws some points back regarding the standard equipment. As you’d expect from a bakkie that costs more than R1 million, there are loads of luxury features that the GR-S doesn’t get, including full leather upholstery, an electrically operated tonneau cover, and Multi-Terrain Select.
Both models are generously equipped with all the toys you could want, including dual-zone climate control, LED headlights, adaptive cruise control, a nine-speaker JBL audio system, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity, lane departure assist, and much more.
In summary, choosing between the GR-S III and the Legend RS 2.8 GD6 48V is a matter of personal preference. The GR-S III is nearly R30,000 cheaper, has a more powerful engine, fantastic rugged styling, and superior off-road ability. For some customers, that makes the newcomer a no-brainer. Then again, the Legend RS has a far more efficient engine thanks to the mild-hybrid setup, additional luxury features, and a more road-biased suspension setup, which makes it better suited to daily driving duties. Either way, you can’t go wrong with both Hilux models. With Toyota’s reputation for reliability and durability, buyers can enjoy the flexibility of the iconic bakkie. The ability to venture into the Sahara one day and conquer the school run the next is incredible. Moreover, with the GR-S III and Legend RS 2.8 GD6 48V, there’s no need to sacrifice luxuries or comfort.
