2008 TRD HiLux to make Brisbane Motor Show debut

Toyota Australia has chosen to unveil their much anticipated supercharged TRD HiLux ahead of its Brisbane International Motor Show debut. Toyota has confirmed that the TRD HiLux has completed all testing and is due to begin production in the second half of February.

The TRD HiLux will be the second vehicle to come out of the TRD stable, after the launch of the TRD Aurion in August of 2007. It is a performance-oriented 4x4 double cab that is distinguished by a boldly designed exterior and interior, penned by Toyota Style Australia.

In much the same way as they did with the Aurion, TRD engineers have found extra kilowatts by supercharging the HiLux’s 4.0-litre V6 engine. Toyota are being coy with power figures but have indicated a 25% increase in power is a starting point, so expect upwards of 220kW/400Nm for the 4WD truck turned sportster.

The TRD Hilux has also received upgraded suspension, brakes and styling, done in a way that will not compromise the off-road ability of the vehicle.

Toyota have chosen the Brisbane show for the unveiling, in recognition of the fact that the HiLux is the top selling vehicle in the state. Last yea a total of 12,640 HiLuxes were sold, representing a 23 percent increase over the previous year.

"HiLux is now the best-selling vehicle in Queensland, so it is fitting for Queensland motorists to be the first to see the final production version of the TRD-enhanced model," Mr Hanley said.

Toyota's stand would also display five other vehicles never previously seen at a Brisbane show.

"Toyota's TRD Aurion, LandCruiser 200 Series, new Corolla hatch, RAV4 V6 and new-generation Kluger are all new models launched in the past eight months," Mr Hanley said.

Toyota's market share in Queensland at 24.0 per cent is the highest of any state - and bigger than the combined totals of its two nearest rivals.

The Brisbane Motor Show kicks off on February 1, and full specifications and pricing will be available then. The TRD HiLux is expected to go on sale in the second quarter of 2008.