Three new Toyota HiLux variants will arrive towards the end of the year that “boost off-road protection, recovery and functionality”…

THE TOYOTA HILUX finishes 2017 as the best-selling vehicle, not just in its segment, but overall and to celebrate Toyota is rolling out three new variants towards the end of the year. “The three dramatically styled new 4×4 variants – the HiLux Rogue, Rugged and Rugged X – will extend the “unbreakable” reputation of HiLux with features that boost off-road protection, recovery and functionality,” Toyota said.

All three variants clearly take inspiration from the HiLux Tonka shown last year, and while pricing hasn’t been announced, the Rugged X will be the top-spec variant, boasting “a high-tensile alloy bash plate and a winch-compatible hoopless steel bull bar – both of which are compatible with the vehicle’s airbags and other safety systems”.

The Rugged X is based on the HiLux SR5 but will sit above it in terms of pricing (the SR5 lists at $54,440+ORC) and adds a black grille with an interlocking honeycomb design and gloss-black surround. It is also equipped with a snorkel, LED driving lights, high-strength front and rear recovery points, rock rails, a load-carrying sports bar and more.

The next variant, the HiLux Rogue will also sit about the SR5 and features a hexagonal upper grille, fresh front bumper and heavily revised fog lamps.

The third new variant, Rugged, features a “functional yet aggressive front-end” design, including a steel bull bar.

Toyota Australia’s vice president sales and marketing Sean Hanley said: “HiLux buyers increasingly demand additional features – in fact, they spend more on accessories than any other vehicle in our range,” Mr Hanley said.

“These new vehicles will enable them to make a statement with advanced toughness, added capability, practical comfort, first-class safety and the in-built strength that makes HiLux the indisputable No. 1,” he said.