2015 Toyota Hilux was developed by the Toyota iQ's chief engineer - Report

02/10/2015 - 18:53 | ,   | Aravind Jayachandran

Explains the car-like approach to the interior.

The 2015 Toyota Hilux previewed the company's new take on utility vehicles, and the man responsible for the next generation pick-up was, surprisingly, the same person behind the company's smallest offering, the Toyota iQ.

2016 Toyota Hilux Double Cab front three quarter at the 2015 Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show (2015 GIIAS).
Although the exterior is just a small step-up from the outgoing model, it's the interior and mechanicals where there was a high attention to detail.

Hiroki Nakajima was more surprised than anybody when Toyota handed him the task of developing an all new pick-up truck, which is a departure from his usual portfolio of small passenger cars like the Toyota iQ. Apparently, Nakajima’s focus on occupant space and comfort made Toyota rethink their take on utility vehicles.

Toyota iQ side profile
Toyota iQ

Although the exterior is just a small step-up from the outgoing model, it's the interior and mechanicals where great attention to detail was given. For instance, it loses the utilitarian design for premium, car-like interior that is more spacious than ever before. It is also feature-packed with equipment like start/stop button, floating touchscreen display, Bluetooth phone and audio streaming, power-operated windows and ORVMs, and cruise control.

The new Hilux rides on a stiffer ladder-frame chassis that has slightly increased the overall weight, but improved vehicle rigidity and towing capacity. It also packs a new range of downsized 'GD' diesel engines, which are paired to a 6-speed manual or 6-speed auto gearboxes.

2016 Toyota Hilux Double Cab interior at the 2015 Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show (2015 GIIAS).
The interior is feature-packed with equipment like start/stop button, floating touchscreen display, Bluetooth telephony and audio streaming.

Toyota has equipped the new Hilux with a list of active safety features that include Active Traction Control (A-TRC), Downhill Assist Control (DAC) and Hill-start Assist Control (HAC) for better 4×4 capabilities.

[Source: Car Advice]

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