2021 Toyota Hilux review

If I was to ask you to name a mainstream pick-up truck, the likelihood is it would be a five-letter word beginning with ‘H’ and ending with ‘x’. That simple Q&A serves to explain why Toyota’s decision to update its Hilux — introducing a new, more powerful 2.8-litre diesel engine, specifically targeting the burgeoning "lifestyle" sector — deserves our attention.

Some figures. Since the Hilux was launched in 1968, more than 18 million have been sold around the world. It’s Europe’s biggest-selling flatbed.

So, yes, we all know pick-ups. The market is essentially split into two groups. There’s the "tradesman-type" guy who uses his pick-up to load the flatbed with work paraphernalia like cement bags, gardening tools, ladders and all the other detritus required to make an honest living.

Then there’s the weekend "lifestyley people". You know, the Action Man/Woman-type who need something to strap their surfboard to; or pack to the rafters with climbing gear and tents as they head into some remote wilderness; or pull their jet ski; or transport a couple of off-road dirt bikes; or simply load with parents and kids as they head to their favourite park for a muddy walk. But the key point is; the vehicle needs to look like it mirrors their weekend "action persona", rather than the Monday to Friday mode of transport.

How big is the UK pick-up market?

Big; and growing. Since 2017 it’s been running at just over 50,000 units a year in the UK. But while the Hilux has captured a significant slice of the UK’s commercial market, it’s never quite grabbed the attention of the lifestyle crew. Why? Because the Toyota has always been perceived as having a relative lack of power. And if there’s one thing the lifestyle market likes, it’s power.

Up until now, the current Hilux has only been available with a single 2.4-litre turbodiesel engine option, delivering 148bhp. That’s hugely significant because 70 per cent of the UK pick-up market in 2019 went to pick-ups with at least 175bhp. Many of the principal sellers were well over 200bhp.