All-New Toyota Hilux Surf on Sale in Japan

Tokyo―Created under the theme New Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV) development, Toyota Motor Corporation today announced the introduction and sales of its all-new Hilux Surf lineup.

Incorporating a refined, aerodynamic exterior and an interior packed with improved functionality, the new Hilux Surf features revised 4WD technology and enhanced handling for both city and off-road situations.

Offering a choice of newly-developed four-cam or twin-cam gasoline engines, the new Hilux Surf range blends excellent performance with superb fuel economy.

The revised suspension system and 4WD transfer multi-mode capability, combined with Toyota's newly-developed, highly rigid, lightweight frame, meet the handling expectations of even the most discerning 4WD enthusiast.

The result is a stylish, urban 4WD utility vehicle that has the creature comforts of a passenger car. Apart from its well-balanced interior, the Hilux Surf is fitted with dual airbags and ABS as standard equipment.

The New Hilux Surf in Detail

The new Hilux Surf boasts a superb blend of refined, sporty exterior styling with a touch of off-road freedom. Its strong, smooth flowing lines and high hip-line are highlighted by an integrated headlight-grille assembly which clearly defines its rugged individualism. Its rear design is kept simple yet functional with a modest rear spoiler for enhanced aerodynamics.

Interior comfort was also a top priority for Toyota. By lowering the floor height 40mm, cabin access is made easier. Focused around an easy-to-use center console, interior space has been further enhanced in all the areas that count. Interior height has been raised by 30mm, giving 12mm more headroom, the front seat slide function now has 30mm more movability, and rear legroom space has been expanded by 75mm. The seats may be arranged in various layouts, a fully-flat seat capability has been added, a lift-back rear door employed, and the height of the rear luggage compartment lowered by 90mm, making for increased utility of luggage space.

Many optional parts are also being offered. A newly-developed GPS system, the "GPS Map Pilot," optional on the SSR-G, provides navigational guidance to the desired destination through a computer which visually displays a map that includes most major sightseeing locations and ski resorts. A "Field Monitor" which displays outside temperature, air pressure, compass headings, and altitude is standard on the SSR-G and optional on the SSR-X. A "Multi-AV Station" integrated TV-audio system is optional on the SSR-G and SSR-X.

Utilizing the latest computer-aided design, Toyota has incorporated a more rigid frame and body construction featuring high tensile strength steel plates which, combined with effective use of reinforcements, achieves a lighter yet rigid body, producing excellent handling and stability. Noise, harshness, and vibration levels have also been reduced through the repositioning of body mounts and further refinements in the drivetrain, exhaust system, and frame construction.

High Performance, Low Fuel Consumption

High performance and fuel efficiency are at the core of the Hilux Surf s new engine development. Both gasoline engines deliver excellent low to mid-range torque response and high speed performance while producing class-topping fuel economy. The 3.4 liter, 4-cam, 24-valve (5VZ-FE) V6 power unit generates 185ps/4,800rpm and 30.0kg-m of torque at 3,600rpm while the 2.7 liter, in-line, twin-cam, 16-valve (3RZ-FE) engine offers 150ps/4,800rpm and 24.0kg-m of torque at 4,000rpm.

The fuel economy of the current model's 3.0 liter diesel turbo (1KZ-TE) engine has been improved by 10% through the incorporation of friction reduction measures in the drivetrain and a new lightweight body.

The Hilux Surf employs a revised suspension layout featuring double wishbone with coil springs and stabilizers on the front and trailing links with coil springs and stabilizers on the rear. In addition to the new suspension setup, a longer wheelbase, wider tread, and a newly developed frame with reinforced side rails enable the new Hilux Surf to deliver superb stability in straight-line, cornering, and braking situations without sacrificing a comfortable ride. And with the lengthened suspension stroke, off-road handling is further enhanced as well.

On the 4WD transfer lever, Toyota has fitted a newly developed, multi-mode system, part-time 4WD with central differential which enhances ride stability under hazardous driving conditions, such as wet or icy roads (SSR-G and SSR-X wide-body diesel models).

Safety and Environmental Considerations

Through revisions to the wheelbase, tread, suspension, frame and the employment of 16 inch, large capacity, front ventilated disc brakes with ABS (for wide-body models), the Hilux Surf s preventive safety level is top class.

A newly-developed, retractable, power rear-under mirror mounted in the rear spoiler (standard on the SSR-G model) provides improved rear vision when reversing.

Fitted with standard dual airbags and anti-intrusion side door beams, Toyota has incorporated frontal, rear, side-on, and roll-over impact absorption technology which lifts occupant safety to new levels and meets Japanese crash test standards.

Toyota has employed recyclable Super Olefin Polymer resin in the overfenders, side body panels, and the instrumental panel.

The new Toyota Hilux Surf goes on sale nationwide through Toyota and Toyopet dealerships, and in Osaka also through Toyota Auto dealerships. Monthly sales target is 5,000 units.