• Hilux model range revised for 2010

• 20 per cent increase in power and more torque from 2.5 D-4D engine

• Revised equipment specifications

The Toyota Hilux, Europe’s most popular pick-up, has undergone significant revisions for 2010 with improved performance specifications making in-demand models more readily available for customers.

Its legendary toughness remains and it now has a healthy 20 per cent increase in power and extra torque from the 2.5 D-4D engine delivering a welcome rise in performance.

Improved engine performance

Toyota has revised the 2.5 D-4D engine, the core power unit in the Hilux range, to produce significantly more power and extra torque. Maximum output has been increased from 118 to 142bhp, a rise of 20 per cent. Maximum torque is up by 18Nm to a maximum 343Nm at 2,000rpm.

These improvements have been achieved by the introduction of a new high-output turbocharger and new fuel injectors that are more precise, improving throttle response and performance. To cope with the extra power, the pistons have been upgraded to a new high-strength material.

As well as giving more flexible driving performance, the changes have cut Hilux’s nought to 62mph acceleration time by 2.5 seconds to 12.5 seconds. Emissions performance is unchanged, however, at 219g/km – one of the lowest figures in the segment.

The 2.5 D-4D engine is matched to a five-speed manual transmission and is available in all three Hilux body styles: Single Cab, Extra Cab and Double Cab.

Improved payloads

Increases in Hilux’s gross vehicle weights have yielded improvements in payload performance, notably for Double Cab models where capacity has increased by 35kg on the HL2 Double Cab and 25kg on the HL3 Double Cab.

Revised model range and equipment specifications

The Hilux range has been revised with the high-power 3.0 D-4D engine now available exclusively in the Invincible Double Cab.

Leather upholstery and satellite navigation with Bluetooth are now options on the Invincible, making the flagship model a stronger price prospect for more customers.

Two smart grey upholstery cloths have been introduced, and a new two-tone leather option in anthracite and slate grey with contrasting light grey stitching is available for the Invincible.

Satellite navigation with Bluetooth is offered as an option on the HL3 Double Cab. A Sport Deck and an Urban Pack (front guard, scuff plates and front and rear parking sensors) are available for both the HL3 and Invincible Double Cabs.

Key equipment features are detailed below.

Prices

The 2010 Toyota Hilux is on sale now with CV on-the-road prices (exclusive of VAT) from £15,145. Full price details are given below.