Upgraded Toyota HiLux Rogue coming
Toyota Australia has previewed an updated version of the premium model in the HiLux range – the HiLux Rogue – which features a wider track, increased ride height and improved braking, as well as more standard safety features.
Since its launch in 2018, the HiLux Rogue and its companion HiLux Rugged X have sold a combined 17,000+ units in Australia. The Rogue has been the road-biased version of the two, with the upcoming version offering improved capability, both on- and off-road.
Due for local release in Q4, 2022, the updated Rogue will feature a track increase of approximately 140mm front and rear, along with suspension adjustments that increase the dual cab ute’s ride height by approximately 20mm.
"The significant suspension upgrades to the HiLux Rogue not only improve off-road capability but create a more stable and comfortable on-road driving experience," said Toyota Australia’s Vice President Sales, Marketing and Franchise Operations, Sean Hanley.
"Continuous improvement is a key facet of Toyota's philosophy and has been clearly achieved by this latest HiLux premium model."
To achieve the wider track, the HiLux’s front suspension arms and stabiliser bar have been lengthened and the shock absorber angle adjusted. At the rear, the axle has been lengthened, dampers have been relocated and a stabiliser bar has been added.
Toyota say these changes increase roll rigidity by 20 per cent, enhancing steering feel when cornering or changing lanes, while also improving overall ride comfort.
To house the increased track, wide-track wheelarch flares and mudguards are fitted, while the front body extension has also been widened to integrate with the front bumper.
In addition to these changes, the upcoming new HiLux Rogue will also feature a rear brake upgrade, with ventilated discs replacing the existing drum brakes. The front disc brakes have been enlarged in diameter by one inch, now at 17 inches.
More active safety equipment is on the new Rogue’s spec list, too, with a blind-spot monitor and rear cross-traffic alert added.
Other HiLux upgrades
Outside of the Rogue, other HiLux model grades are due to receive cosmetic, convenience and safety upgrades for 2023.
SR extra cab and dual cab models will upgrade from steel wheels to new 17-inch alloys in black, with body-coloured door handles added for a more premium look.
SR5 dual cab utes will feature the blind-spot monitor and rear cross-traffic alert added to the Rogue, as well as a panoramic view monitor and puddle lamps, but heated exterior mirrors will be deleted.
On automatic SR5 grades and above, the steering column lock has been replaced by an ‘ID Box’ anti-theft immobiliser, for extra security when starting the vehicle with the smart key.
Finally, Toyota has revealed that a new “apex off-road variant” of the HiLux is coming to replace the existing HiLux Rugged X.
Further details on this, along with pricing for the new HiLux Rogue and other updated models, will be announced closer to local release.
Toyota halts orders for LandCruiser 70 Series
In an effort to alleviate long wait times that purchasers of the LandCruiser 70 Series have had to endure this year, Toyota Australia has stopped taking orders of this popular model for a brief period.
Despite a decrease in the new car market for the first half of 2022, demand for the 70 Series remains high, which is butting up against ongoing disruptions in production that Toyota and the rest of the global automotive industry is experiencing.
"Strong demand and industry-wide supply challenges mean we simply cannot fulfil orders more quickly. Therefore, we have decided to pause new customer orders for the LandCruiser 70 Series,” said Toyota Australia’s Sean Hanley.
"Dealers will be in direct contact with customers about wait times for existing orders over the coming months. We are monitoring the global supply situation closely and will continue to make decisions based on the best interests of our customers and dealers.”
Updates on the timeframe for Australian deliveries will be provided by Toyota Australia as information becomes available.
