I recently took the Toyota Hilux Invincible X for a spin, inspired by chef and car enthusiast James Martin, who’s a big fan of this rugged ride. With a car collection worth about £5 million, including a Ferrari and Bentley, James’s love for the Hilux speaks volumes about its appeal.
The Hilux has been a reliable workhorse globally since 1968, and its legendary status in the UK was cemented when Top Gear put it to the ultimate test. Now with its ninth generation rolling out, including an all-electric version, it seemed like the perfect time to check out the eighth-gen model.
I opted for the Invincible X 2.8 Double Cab in a striking Titan Bronze. With a price tag of over £40,000, it packs a punch with a 2.8 litre engine delivering 204bhp. Its impressive power, combined with a 3.5-tonne towing capacity, puts it firmly in the league of rivals like the Isuzu D-Max V-Cross.
Inside, the Hilux strikes a balance between traditional and modern. While it boasts a 3-pedal setup and a conventional handbrake, its smaller touchscreen with buttons offers a mix of old-school charm and tech-savvy features. However, the lane assist function had me scratching my head all week!
Driving the Hilux, it’s clear: this is no sporty saloon. The stiff suspension gives a bouncy feel, and it’s not made for speed demons. But with manual gear changes and selectable four-wheel drive, it’s a joy for those who like some engagement in their drive. Just don’t expect it to hug corners like a sports car.
One hiccup? The automatic high beam feature. Great in theory, but in urban areas, constant flicking on and off amidst streetlights turned from nifty to annoying rather quickly.
So, what’s my take? The Hilux is a sturdy, reliable truck – perfect if that’s your cup of tea. Despite its quirks, I can see why James Martin sings its praises. Verdict: 7.5/10. If you’re after a dependable pick-up, the Hilux should definitely be on your list!