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European examples of the Toyota HiLux GR Sport now look similar to Australian-delivered versions – but the overseas ute gains wireless Apple CarPlay and a number of other technology upgrades we miss out on.
The European version of the Toyota HiLux GR Sport has received a facelift and technology update for 2024, though it’s not yet clear if or when the cabin upgrades will come to Australia.
It was followed by the addition of an Australian version – which is built in Thailand but different again from its three overseas counterparts – earlier this year, which rolled out in showrooms from September.
The biggest changes to the European version of the Toyota HiLux GR Sport have occurred inside the cabin, and are not immediately obvious.
While the dual-cab ute retains an 8.0-inch infotainment screen, the updated system – which ditches all physical controls except the volume dial – now allows wireless (and wired) Apple CarPlay, though Android Auto compatibility remains wired-only.
The updated infotainment software – which is shared with other new Toyota models – also adds a cloud-based satellite navigation system (which can be used when no connection is available), a ‘Hey Toyota’ voice assistant and the ability to receive over-the-air updates.
On the outside, Europe’s facelifted Toyota HiLux GR Sport ‘II’ is now equipped with the same front bumper and grille as found on Australian-delivered examples, moving its ‘TOYOTA’ grille lettering higher up while incorporating a silver bash plate below – increasing its approach angle to 30 degrees (from 29 degrees).
The European Toyota HiLux GR Sport has different rear bumper add-ons to house technology such as blind-zone warning and rear cross-traffic sensors.
The European edition has a larger housing located all the way across the bottom of the rear bumper, rather than the more compact housings on the top corners of high-end versions of Australian-delivered Toyota HiLux models.
Above the ute’s tub there is a black spoiler which extends from its roof and C-pillar. In Australia there is no sports bar or spoiler fitted to the HiLux GR Sport.
Under the bonnet, the HiLux GR Sport’s 2.8-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine continues to produce 150kW and 500Nm – less than the 165kW/550Nm outputs of Australian-delivered examples, and the same as the standard HiLux range.
Drive is awaiting comment from Toyota Australia about when the updated infotainment system could be rolled out in locally-delivered examples of the Toyota HiLux GR Sport.
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