News

Improved Hilux

2 September 2011

TOYOTA HILUX - NEW LOOK, EVEN BETTER PRICE

Toyota has substantially raised the bar with an updated HiLux range that improves value by as much as $8,340 or 15.8 per cent.

New styling and added features across the range plus reduced prices on many of the 35 HiLux variants have put Australia's top-selling workhorse in an even stronger position.

Every 4x4 HiLux provides between $1,960 and $8,340 better value while 4x2 HiLux delivers enhanced value of up to $1,640.

Toyota Australia's senior executive director sales and marketing David Buttner said the added specification and aggressive pricing would further strengthen HiLux's reign as Australia's most popular commercial vehicle.

"We have continually updated HiLux so that it offers the size, body styles, power, equipment and value demanded of a vehicle that doubles as a workhorse and a family car," Mr Buttner said.

HiLux improvements begin with new sheet metal from the A-pillar forward - a new bonnet, radiator grille, headlamps and front bumper.

The profile has been further enhanced for SR5 models with newly designed fenders, new door mirrors with integrated turn signals and redesigned wheels (4x4 Xtra and Double Cabs).

Across the range, anti-skid brakes are now standard and cruise control is standard on all SR and SR5 variants, as well as automatic 4x4 WorkMate 4x4s. All models now have a tachometer.

In the 4x4 range, vehicle stability control is now standard on all SR5 double cabs and optional on all SR Double Cab pick-ups.

Side seat and curtain-shield airbags and sports-style front seats have been fitted to all 4x4 SR5 and SR variants.

A limited-slip differential has been included in all 4x4 WorkMates.

HiLux interiors have been updated with refined designs that reinforce its credentials as a leisure vehicle, including new seat fabrics on selected variants.

It offers improved sensory quality throughout the cabin and passenger-car levels of convenience.

A new upper dashboard design features a horizontal centre instrument cluster that reinforces the breadth and roominess of the cabin.

The centre stack features new controls for the heating and ventilation system and, for SR5 variants, automatic climate control has been added to the air-conditioning.

A major improvement is the addition of advanced new audio systems on all variants. Depending on the grade, they feature voice recognition, touch screen, radio text, 3D graphics for the satellite navigation and safety warnings for school zones and speed and red-light cameras.

As part of these audio upgrades, all SR5 models will come with satellite navigation as standard, viewed on the 6.1-inch LCD touch screen.

Toyota's HiLux range now starts with the 4x2 WorkMate Single Cab cab-chassis at $18,990 - an increase of just $500 offset by the addition of anti-skid brakes, a tacho, new sheet metal, redesigned interior and a new audio system.

Across the range, the biggest improvement in value comes with the 4x4 SR5 turbo-diesel Xtra Cab.

The added spec - including satellite navigation, dusk-sensing headlamps, steering wheel-mounted telephone controls, re-designed alloy wheels, sports-style front seats with side airbags, curtain-shield airbags and auto control for the air-conditioning - comes to $2,690. In addition, the price has been rolled back by $5,650.

The entry price for a 4x4 turbo-diesel HiLux has come down $6,150 or 16.1 per cent to $31,990 with the introduction of a WorkMate Single Cab with manual transmission.

Its feature list includes ABS, driver and passenger airbags, tacho, limited-slip differential, 16-inch wheels and protective covers for the engine and fuel tank.

HiLux 4x4 Xtra and Double Cabs are once again priced from under $40,000.

The 4x4 Xtra Cabs start at $38,490 for the SR turbo-diesel cab-chassis - an overall improvement in value of $5,840 that includes additional equipment of $1,290 and a price cut of $4,550. Toyota has also introduced a new SR Xtra Cab pick-up at $39,990.

For 4x4 Double Cabs, a new turbo-diesel WorkMate Pick-up once again brings the entry price under $40,000 - at $38,990 for the manual. This is $5,900 less than the previous lowest-priced diesel Double Cab.

All other 4x4 Double Cabs have had price reductions - from $200 to $3,650.

With the changes, the HiLux range has been expanded from 32 to 35 variants - 17 4x2s and 18 4x4s.

HiLux now comes with the choice of three cabins - Single, Xtra and Double Cab; two styles - pick-up and cab-chassis; three equipment grades - WorkMate, SR and SR5; three engines - 2.7-litre four-cylinder petrol, 4.0-litre V6 petrol and a 3.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel; the choice of two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive; and manual or automatic transmissions.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
HILUX GAINS SUBSTANTIALLY IMPROVED VALUE

Improved value across the range* (benefit varies by model)

Price reductions on all carry-over 4x4 variants
- Up to $5,650 or 10.7 per cent (SR5 Xtra Cab TD)

Value improved by up to $8,340 or 15.8 per cent (SR5 Xtra Cab TD)

Entry price for 4x4 models down $3,650 or 10.2 per cent, starting from $31,990
- New turbo-diesel WorkMate Single Cab cab chassis (manual and auto)

Entry price for 4x4 Xtra Cab down $4,550 or 10.6 per cent to $38,490
- Added features improve overall value by $5,840 (SR Xtra Cab cab chassis TD)

Entry price for 4x4 turbo-diesel Double Cab reduced 16.1 per cent, starting from $38,990
- New turbo-diesel WorkMate variants (manual and auto)

Zero price increases on four 4x2 petrol models despite new and upgraded features

On other 4x2 models, the value of new and upgraded features outweighs modest price rises

Satellite navigation now standard on all SR5 models

HiLux is covered by Toyota Service Advantage, which caps the price for a standard scheduled service at $170 for the first three years or 60,000km (whichever comes first).^

* Recommended retail prices exclude dealer delivery, government and statutory charges and optional extras.

^ For full Toyota Service Advantage details and conditions, visit advantage.toyota.com.au

PRICE LIST#
Previous RRP# New RRP# Difference
4x2 Single Cab
WorkMate CC L4 manual $18,490 $18,990 $500
WorkMate CC L4 auto $20,490 $20,990 $500
WorkMate CC TD manual - $24,490 New Variant
SR CC V6 manual $24,090 $24,990 $900
SR CC V6 auto $26,590 $27,490 $900
SR CC TD manual $26,590 $26,990 $400
SR Pick-up V6 manual $26,490 $26,490 $0
SR Pick-up V6 auto $28,990 $28,990 $0
4x2 Xtra Cab
SR V6 auto $30,890 $30,990 $100
SR TD manual - $31,990 New Variant
SR5 V6 auto $40,390 $40,990 $600
4x2 Double Cab
WorkMate L4 manual $26,990 $26,990 $0
WorkMate L4 auto $28,990 $28,990 $0
SR V6 manual $34,190 $34,990 $800
SR V6 auto $36,690 $37,490 $800
SR TD manual $32,590 $32,990 $400
SR5 V6 manual $41,890 - Discontinued
SR5 V6 auto $44,390 $44,990 $600
4x4 Single Cab
WorkMate CC TD manual - $31,990 New Variant
WorkMate CC TD auto - $33,990 New Variant
SR CC V6 manual $35,640 - Discontinued
SR CC V6 auto $38,140 - Discontinued
SR CC TD manual $38,140 $34,990 -$3,150
SR CC TD auto $40,140 $37,490 -$2,650
4x4 Xtra Cab
SR CC TD manual $43,040 $38,490 -$4,550
SR TD manual - $39,990 New Variant
SR5 V6 manual $50,140 - Discontinued
SR5 TD manual $52,640 $46,990 -$5,650
4x4 Double Cab
WorkMate TD manual - $38,990 New Variant
WorkMate TD auto - $40,990 New Variant
SR V6 manual $42,390 $41,990 -$400
SR V6 auto $44,890 $44,490 -$400
SR CC TD manual $44,140 $40,490 -$3,650
SR TD manual $44,890 $41,990 -$2,900
SR TD auto $46,890 $44,490 -$2,400
SR5 V6 manual $51,190 $50,990 -$200
SR5 V6 auto $53,690 $53,490 -$200
SR5 TD manual $53,690 $50,990 -$2,700
SR5 TD auto $55,690 $53,490 -$2,200

 

# Recommended retail price is provided for media purposes only and does not include statutory charges or other on-road costs

CC = Cab Chassis
TD = 3.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine
L4 = 2.7-litre four-cylinder petrol engine
V6 = 4.0-litre V6 petrol engine

 

OPTIONS

Metallic paint $400
Air-conditioning $2,051
SR option pack $1,500

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
HILUX - WHAT'S NEW OR DIFFERENT

MAJOR CHANGES

Price reposition (4x4)
Improved value
Anti-skid brakes standard
New bonnet, front fenders, front bumper, headlamps, upper and lower radiator grilles and rear combination lamps (pick-up models)
New audio systems
New centre dash register

NEW VARIANTS

HiLux now comes with 35 variants, up from 32.

1. There are seven new 3.0-litre turbo-diesel variants

4x2 and 4x4:
Single Cab: WorkMate cab chassis (manual)
Xtra Cab: SR pick-up (manual)

4x4:
Single Cab: WorkMate cab chassis (auto)
Double Cab: WorkMate pick-up (manual and auto)

2. Four low-volume petrol V6 variants have been discontinued

4x2:
Double Cab: SR5 pick-up (manual)

4x4:
Single Cab: SR cab chassis (manual and auto)
Xtra Cab: SR5 pick-up (manual)

ADDITIONAL CHANGES BY GRADE

WorkMate 4x2 (five variants):

This popular range is expanded to include a new 3.0-litre turbo-diesel variant with manual transmission.

Selected models also receive a tacho, shift-position indicator and front map lights.

WorkMate 4x4 (four variants):

For the first-time, a genuine entry-level 4x4 model is offered. The new WorkMate 4x4 is offered in Single Cab cab chassis and Double Cab pick-up body styles, mated to the 3.0-litre turbo-diesel engine and the choice of manual or automatic transmissions.

These four new variants are equipped with ABS, driver and passenger airbags, tachometer, limited-slip differential, 16-inch steel wheels, and protective covers for the engine and fuel tank.

The two automatic transmission versions are fitted with bucket seats (vinyl) and cruise control, as well as a shift-position indicator.

Both Double Cab variants are fitted with front map lights.

WorkMate interior:

New-design heater control dials
New audio:
- single CD player
- three-line text display
- fascia-mounted 3.5mm AUX jack and USB input
- Bluetooth* hands-free and Bluetooth audio streaming
- Bluetooth phone-book access profile
- voice recognition (for audio/phone)
- radio text

SR 4x2 (10 variants):

Interior comfort and convenience is enhanced with upgraded seat and door trim, a revised steering wheel with silver highlights and improved power windows that include an automatic up-down function as well as jam protection for the driver.

A limited-slip differential, previously optional, is now standard on all V6 petrol models.

Cruise control, previously only on auto variants, has been expanded to manual versions.

SR 4x4 (nine variants):

In addition to the 4x2 SR specification enhancements, 4x4 SR models gain several features that were previously available only for the SR5 grade. These include sports-style front seats and the added safety of side and curtain-shield airbags. With the fitment of sports-style seats, the Single Cab manual variant no longer has the three-person bench seat.

Double Cab SR buyers can also opt for a safety package that adds vehicle stability control, traction control, electronic brake-force distribution and brake assist. The package also includes 17-inch steel wheels, body-coloured over-fender flares and an Optitron combimeter.

SR interior:

Upgrades as for WorkMate, plus silver accents on the steering wheel and upgraded seat fabric and door trim.

SR5 4x2 (two variants):

The Xtra Cab and Double Cab, both fitted with the V6 petrol engine and automatic transmission, gain the convenience and comfort of single-zone automatic air-conditioning, dusk-sensing headlights and improved power windows (auto up-down and jam protection for the driver).

A 6.1-inch touch-screen satellite-navigation system is now standard as part of an upgraded audio system, which also adds two speakers (total of six).

Telephone controls have been added to the steering wheel, to make it easier to handle calls using Bluetooth-compatible mobile phones.

The addition of side-turn indicators in the exterior mirrors provides additional differentiation from lower grades.

SR5 4x4 (five variants):

In addition to the upgrades for 4x2 variants, these flagship models gain expanded safety features.

Vehicle stability control, traction control, electronic brake-force distribution and brake assist, already fitted to Double Cab turbo-diesel variants, are now included as standard on the Double Cab V6 petrol versions.

SR5 interior:

Silver ornaments on the dash, steering wheel, gear lever and shift surround
New audio
- 6.1-inch LCD touch screen
- satellite navigation with 3D map display and speed camera warnings
- single CD player
- RDS-TMC (SUNA traffic)
- fascia-mounted USB input
- Bluetooth hands-free and Bluetooth audio streaming
- Bluetooth phone-book access
- voice recognition (for audio, phone, navigation)
- radio text
- SD card slot

SR5 exterior:

Newly designed alloy sports bar, overfender flares and alloy wheels.

* The Bluetooth work mark is owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. Not all devices will be compatible and functionality may vary depending on the device.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
HILUX - MODEL WALK-UP

4x2 WorkMate

Tacho
Shift-position indicator (auto only)
2-speaker single CD audio and Bluetooth * / USB / AUX
Front personal lamp (excl. Single Cab)
Vinyl seat trim
Plastic door trim
Urethane steering wheel
Urethane shift knob
Green side and rear glass
Black radiator grille
Black manual exterior mirrors
15" steel wheels
Driver and passenger airbags
Anti-skid brakes

4x2 SR (over and above WorkMate)

Upgraded fabric seat trim
Upgraded fabric door trim
Silver-accented urethane steering wheel with audio controls
Power windows (auto up-down for driver)
Cruise control
Remote central locking
Illuminated entry system (key ignition)
Painted radiator grille with chrome
Black power exterior mirrors
Limited slip differential (V6 models)
Body-coloured front bumpers

4x2 SR5 (over and above SR)

Dusk-sensing headlights
Single-zone auto air-conditioning
6-speaker single CD navigation and Bluetooth / USB (without AUX input)
Premium shift knob with silver highlight
Premium steering wheel with audio, MID and telephone controls
Privacy side and rear glass (Double Cab only)
High grade finish grille
Chrome power exterior mirrors with turn signal lights
15" alloy wheels
Polished alloy sports bar

4x4 WorkMate

Tacho
Shift-position indicator (auto only)
2-speaker single CD audio and Bluetooth / USB / AUX
Front personal lamp (excl. Single Cab)
Vinyl seat trim
Plastic door trim
Urethane steering wheel
Urethane shift knob
Green side and rear glass
Black radiator grille
Black manual exterior mirrors
Cruise control (auto only)
Dual-range transmission
16" steel wheels
Driver and passenger airbags
Anti-skid brakes
Limited-slip differential

4x4 SR (over and above WorkMate)

Sports-style seats with upgraded fabric trim
Upgraded fabric door trim
Silver-accented urethane steering wheel with audio controls
Power windows (auto up-down for driver)
Cruise control
Remote central locking
Illuminated entry system (key ignition)
Painted radiator grille with chrome
Side steps
Black power exterior mirrors
Side seat and curtain shield airbags
Body-coloured front bumpers

Option Pack (Double Cab)

Over-fender flares
Optitron combimeter
17" steel wheels
VSC + TRC + EBD + BA

4x4 SR5 Xtra Cab (over and above SR)

Dusk-sensing headlights
Optitron combimeter
Single-zone auto air-conditioning
6-speaker single CD navigation and Bluetooth / USB (less AUX input)
Premium gear-shift knob
Premium steering wheel with audio, MID and telephone controls
High grade finish grille
Over-fender flares
Chrome power exterior mirrors with turn signal lights
15" alloy wheels
Polished alloy sports bar

Double Cab (over and above Xtra Cab)

Shift-lever silver surround (auto only)
Privacy side + rear glass
17" alloy wheels
VSC + TRC + EBD + BA

* The Bluetooth work mark is owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. Not all devices will be compatible and functionality may vary depending on the device.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NEW WORKMATE VARIANTS LOWER HILUX 4X4 ENTRY PRICE

Most affordable 4x4 Double Cab back under $40K

Toyota has lowered the entry prices for its 4x4 HiLux Single and Double Cabs by more than $3,000 with the introduction of turbo-diesel WorkMate variants.

Across the HiLux range, Toyota has introduced seven new turbo-diesel variants at the lower end of the market - five WorkMate and two SR.

At the same time, it has deleted four V6 petrol variants due to relatively low demand.

The most affordable 4x4 HiLux is now the turbo-diesel WorkMate Single Cab cab chassis at $31,990 for the manual. Auto is an extra $2,000.

Both these variants are priced substantially below the previous best-priced 4x4 HiLux models: SR V6 petrol manual and auto.

For the manual, the new entry price is $3,650 or 10.2 per cent lower; for the auto, the improvement is $4,150 or almost 10.9 per cent.

The most affordable 4x4 HiLux Double Cab is once again under $40,000 with the introduction of a turbo-diesel WorkMate pick-up.

The manual is priced from $38,990 - reducing the entry price for a 4x4 Double Cab by $3,400. The auto is $40,990, or $3,900 more affordable.

Previously, WorkMate variants were not available in HiLux 4x4 Single or Double Cabs.

The fifth new WorkMate variant is a turbo-diesel 4x2 Single Cab cab chassis fitted with a manual transmission, priced from $24,490.

Toyota has also added turbo-diesel SR variants with manual transmission to the 4x2 and 4x4 Xtra Cab line-ups.

The 4x2 version is priced from $31,990 while the 4x4 version is priced from $39,990.

Toyota has also deleted the manual 4x2 V6 petrol pick-up from the Double Cab SR5 range.

As a result of the changes to the line-up, there are now 35 HiLux variants compared with 32 previously.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
HILUX HAS THE CHOICE OF THREE ENGINES

Toyota HiLux customers have the choice of three engines - inline four-cylinder and V6 petrol engines and a four-cylinder common-rail turbo-diesel.

The 4.0-litre V6 petrol engine, 1GR-FE, is equipped with VVT-i (variable valve timing with intelligence) and delivers 175kW of power at 5200rpm.

Manual versions generate 343Nm of torque across a wide rev band, from 2400 to 4800rpm.

The versions fitted with Toyota's electronically controlled five-speed automatic transmission pump out 376Nm at 3800rpm for optimum driveability on and off road.

The four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine, 1KD-FTV, offers optimum performance and driveability for HiLux 4x2 and 4x4 models, including the five new WorkMates.

The DOHC 16-valve turbocharged and intercooled diesel delivers 126kW of power at 3600rpm and 343Nm of torque from 1400rpm to 3400rpm.

Compression ratio is 17.9:1 and fuel use is as low as 8.1 litres/100km*.

The 2.7-litre four-cylinder petrol engine, 2TR-FE, also benefits from Toyota's VVT-i technology and is available on 4x2 WorkMate Single Cab and Double Cab.

It has twin counter-rotating balance shafts and a torsional rubber damper in the crankshaft pulley to reduce noise, vibration and harshness.

Maximum power is 116kW at 5200rpm with torque of 240Nm at 3800rpm and can be matched to a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission.

The 4x2 WorkMate engine's combined fuel economy is 11.0 litres/100km for the manual and 11.5 litres/100km for the auto*.

Suspension
Toyota has recalibrated the suspension of HiLux 4x2 models to improve handling and ride comfort.

The new calibration offers a flatter, more stable ride.

HiLux has coil-spring double-wishbone front suspension with twin-tube dampers and a ball-joint mounted stabiliser bar.

Rear suspension is by leaf springs.

Toyota chassis engineers have changed the structure of the damper valves to improve damping performance, especially on rough roads.

The suspension-mounting bushes have also been changed to reduce the amount of vibration entering the cabin.

In addition, engineers have incorporated small nodes into three propeller-shaft joints to apply grease which enhances durability.

Towing capacity on 4x4 models has been increased to 2.5 tonnes^.

* Source of fuel-consumption data: ADR 81/02 combined cycle. Fuel consumption will vary depending on driving conditions/style, vehicle conditions and options/accessories.

^ Towing capacity subject to regulatory requirements, towbar design, vehicle design and towing equipment limitations. Ask your Dealer for details of Toyota Genuine Towbar capacity and availability.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
HILUX - AN AUSTRALIAN SUCCESS STORY

HiLux has been an incredible Australian success story, averaging 21,500 sales a year throughout the past three decades.

Its popularity with Australian buyers has gained pace over the years with sales in the past decade rising to an average of 32,500 a year.

HiLux has been even more successful in the past five years, with an impressive average of more than 40,000 a year being delivered to local motorists.

During this latter period, HiLux has been Australia's best-selling vehicle on five separate occasions: April and October 2008, June and November 2009, and April 2010. It is the only ute to have achieved this landmark.

Annual sales of HiLux passed 20,000 for the first time in 1998, and then passed 30,000 in 2005 and 40,000 just two years later in 2007.

Over the past 10 years the size of the national 4x2 market in which HiLux competes has risen from 53,000 in 2001 to nearly 80,000 in 2004 and 2005, before easing to just under 60,000 last year.

HiLux has had well above 20 per cent of this market in each of the past five years - a period in which it has also outsold the locally produced rival utes.

Last year, the HiLux 4x2's share was 25.3 per cent, second only to the 26.4 per cent share it achieved in 2007.

In the 4x4 segment, the past 10 years have seen incredible growth in the national market from just over 35,000 in 2001 to more than 93,000 last year.

The market share for HiLux has almost invariably held above 25 per cent.

Last year, HiLux achieved its third best sales on record - 39,896 - with an overall market share above 25 per cent.

HiLux has been challenged by increased competition and production disruptions caused by the Japan earthquake and tsunami.

A return to more normal stock levels in July resulted in a gain to market share: 25.9 per cent in the 4x2 market and 27.7 per cent in 4x4 for the month.

Toyota Australia senior executive director sales and marketing David Buttner said HiLux remains the most desirable vehicle in its segment and has the highest awareness among people looking to buy a 4x2 or 4x4 ute.

"HiLux remains in great demand and the changes we are introducing to its style, features and value will only strengthen its appeal," Mr Buttner said.

"Our research shows unprompted awareness and desirability for HiLux are both above 50 per cent while all competitors are below 30 per cent.

"More than 60 per cent of respondents rate HiLux for its desirability and off-roading capability - a higher proportion than any other vehicle.

"HiLux also remains the leader for attributes such as excitement, styling, distinctive, quality, performance, lifestyle - and for value."

Mr Buttner said HiLux retained a large band of loyal followers with approximately one in two HiLux buyers already owning a Toyota.

"Having owned a HiLux, up to 60 per cent of owners say they are likely to choose another Toyota for their next vehicle - many of them a HiLux.

"Significant strengths for HiLux compared with its rivals are the Toyota brand strength and quality," he said.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
VERSATILE HILUX A HIT IN AUSTRALIA

HiLux is Australia's most popular ute, with nearly 700,000 vehicles sold since 1968 - more than half being 4x4 versions.

It has been used in mines, agriculture, telecommunications, government and rental, both as a tradesperson's work vehicle and for recreation.

The HiLux nameplate took over from LandCruiser as Australia's top-selling commercial vehicle four times during the 1980s.

HiLux is now in its 14th year in a row at the top.

In the first half of 2011 it was the third-best selling vehicle in Australia according to industry statistician VFACTS, with 18,528 vehicles sold.

This was 51 per cent more than the next highest selling utility/commercial vehicle.

On five separate occasions, the most recent in April 2010, HiLux has been Australia's top-selling vehicle. It is the only ute to have achieved this landmark.

HiLux was first sold in Australia in 1968 (as a 4x2) through then national distributor, Thiess Toyota.

The 4x4 model was introduced in 1979.

Late in 1983 Australia received a new-generation HiLux, which was Toyota's largest single change to a commercial vehicle at that time.

Four engines were offered, 1.6 and 2.0-litre petrol, and 2.2 and 2.4-litre diesel.

In addition, Toyota offered automatic transmission for the first time in a Japanese one-tonne utility.

Product upgrades in a 34-vehicle range launched in 1988 included a 2.8-litre diesel engine, 2.4-litre petrol, independent suspension for recreational Xtra Cab 4x4 and Toyota's breakthrough automatic disconnecting front differential, a world-first for a 4x4 vehicle and still in use.

A new entry-level model, the Grinner (later renamed WorkMate), appeared with a 1.8-litre petrol engine.

Australian HiLux sales passed the 300,000 mark in the late 1990s.

HiLux was by far and away Australia's most popular vehicle in the combined 4x2 and 4x4 pick-up category.

Technical upgrades in 1997 included a new EFI and balance-shaft equipped 2.7-litre petrol engine and a new three-litre diesel.

The all-new seventh generation Toyota HiLux, launched in Australia in 2005, offered the best performance of any full chassis utility in the country, with 175kW of power from its 4.0-litre V6 petrol engine.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
QUEENSLAND: THE SPIRITUAL HOME OF TOYOTA

Queensland mining and construction services operator Leslie Thiess brought Toyota to Australia - and his first independent dealerships were in Queensland.

Les (later Sir Leslie) discovered LandCruiser while his construction company was working on the Snowy Mountains Hydro-electric scheme and arranged to import and sell the vehicle.

The first shipment went to his own company, with one held back to act as a mobile spare parts base.

Queensland was his base and the first 13 dealer appointments were made in that state, all in 1959.

The only dealer requirement was that they purchase $400 of spare parts.

Sixty-nine Toyotas were sold in Australia in 1959, of which 36 went to Queensland buyers.

Toyota became national commercial vehicle market leader in 1979, a position it has held ever since.

Toyota took outright market leadership in Queensland in 1991-2000, and 2002-10.

Last year Toyota HiLux was Queensland's best-selling individual vehicle.

In 1980 CSR acquired Thiess Holdings and sold the Toyota franchise to Toyota Motor Corporation.

Queensland became the only franchise in the world in which TMC was directly responsible for the sale of both its passenger cars and its light commercial vehicles.

Its success in that market led to the unification of the commercial vehicle and passenger car arms in Australia in 1988.

Toyota has achieved outright market leadership in Queensland since 1991 for all years except one, including the last eight in succession.

Many of Toyota's original Queensland dealerships are still in existence, although in different hands.

The dealership generally thought to be the first in Australia is Rockhampton Toyota, originally operated by George Jamieson and now owned by Ian Weigh.

In 1959 Jamieson offered undercover parking to a Thiess salesperson who was to display LandCruiser at the Rockhampton Agricultural Show.

When the representative returned he found Jamieson had sold the LandCruiser.

When Jamieson retired in 1985 he was credited with having sold 20,000 Toyota cars and commercial vehicles.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TOWNSVILLE - THE KEY TO TOYOTA'S SUCCESS

Toyota's success in Australia is directly attributable to its early regional development.

The company provided on-the-ground service and parts support which helped farmers and miners operate in remote areas.

Toyota opened its first branch in Townsville in 1964, with its Darwin facility following a year later.

At the time other vehicle manufacturers and distributors were still operating out of central depots in southern Australia.

Shipping delays in vehicle and component supply were creating major downtime for customers.

Toyota commercial vehicle distributor Sir Leslie Thiess, a major mining services contractor himself, recognised the need to provide swift service response.

His decision to decentralise service quickly earned Toyota a dominant share of sales in the far north of Australia - in excess of 70 per cent in both North Queensland and the Northern Territory.

Sir Leslie made the claim that Toyota helped open up Australia's resource-based industries.

In 1982 Queensland Premier Sir Joh Bjelke-Petersen and Sir Leslie Thiess jointly opened a new, purpose-built distribution hub in Townsville to distribute light commercial vehicles and assemble heavy commercials.

The branch is the centre of Toyota's current North Queensland operations.

It covers 48,000m2 and last year moved around 8,000 Toyota vehicles.

The warehouse itself covers about 10 per cent of the site and holds more than 22,500 different parts. At any one time it has roughly $4 million stock on hand.

It is also a regional training centre and each year conducts around 110 days of training for North Queensland dealer technicians and apprentices with class sizes of six to 10 people, depending on the subject.

Toyota is the long-term market leader in North Queensland.

In 2010 Toyota accounted for more than 20 per cent of passenger vehicle deliveries and 34 per cent of light commercial vehicle sales in the region.

Toyota HiLux is the top selling vehicle in North Queensland with 2,213 deliveries in 2010 and 1,377 deliveries for the year to date (July).

That is 42 and 108 per cent more respectively than the second highest selling vehicle.

Toyota and its thirteen regional dealers are strong supporters of North Queensland activities.

Their best known sponsorship is that of the North Queensland Cowboys, one of the top performers in the NRL.

North Queensland is a strong growth area in Australia.

According to regional development authorities $13 billion of mining, construction and infrastructure investments are underway or proposed.

The current population of 231,000 is projected to grow to 346,000 in 20 years.

Toyota's role as a corporate citizen has not varied over 40 years.

When Cyclone Tracy devastated Darwin in 1974 the Toyota branch became both a shelter and a workshop to keep essential transport on the road.

Earlier this year, following Cycle Yasi which swept though North Queensland, Toyota's Townsville branch performed largely the same task despite being damaged itself.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TOYOTA ENGINEERS SAFEST EVER GENUINE HILUX TRAY BODIES

Toyota engineers have added a number of innovative features to increase pedestrian safety around the new HiLux.

Toyota Genuine Tray Bodies now incorporate specifically engineered mounting points for the optional Rear Parking Sensor and Camera*, giving HiLux owners the benefit of increased visibility while reversing.

An advanced new generation of quick-lock hinges on the Toyota Genuine Aluminium Tray Bodies feature an innovative and simple locking and unlocking action that minimises the risk of hand and finger injuries while loading and unloading the tray.

The high-strength plastic hinges are almost three times stronger than the metal hinges they replace. They have no sharp edges and will not corrode.

Toyota Genuine Aluminium Tray Bodies also feature internal tie-down rails, which help increase the stability of shallow and small loads that sit below the tray line while offering more flexibility when choosing tie-down points for high or short loads.

Pedestrian safety around the vehicle is increased with the addition of lightweight plastic mudguards.

The tough new mudguards have no sharp edges and are reinforced with rib structures that allow some flex and deform if the driver accidentally reverses into an object.

The headboard and tray profile has also been redesigned with a rounder corner post for added pedestrian safety.

*Rear Parking Sensor and Camera is designed as a driver assistance device only and should not be used as a substitute for skilled driving and safe parking practices. The area into which the vehicle is to be reversed must be visually monitored by the driver while parking.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
HILUX IS A TRADIE'S BEST FRIEND

The availability of over 150 Toyota Genuine accessories for the new HiLux make it the most versatile Toyota on the market, helping tradespeople to customise their HiLux to suit their individual needs.

The Australian-made Toyota Genuine Smooth Canopy provides an easy-to-use and versatile secure storage solution.

The solid dual-curved frameless rear glass door (with centre door handle) features high-mounted strut points, so it opens fully to allow easy access inside the canopy.

The dual side windows are available as sliding or lift action; lift action side windows also feature high-mounted strut points for increased accessibility.

The inclusion of an interior light makes finding what you're looking for much easier, and shelf mounting points have been added to the sturdy internal frame.

Tradies can also choose to cover their loads with the all-new Toyota Genuine Soft Tonneau Cover, which is designed to sit flush with the tray.

The Soft Tonneau Cover utilises a press-and-clip style securing system on internal mounts, rather than external bungee straps. This eliminates the chance of breaking a strap while securing a load or scuffing of the tray body by the straps.

The lockable, colour-coded Toyota Genuine Hard Sports Tonneau Cover offers increased load security and a tough sports look.

Tradies with a 4x4 HiLux model can now carry heavier loads with the HiLux Towbar with Rear Step because its tow capacity has been increased from 2250kg (braked) to 2500kg (braked).

It features a stylish non-slip chrome step bar, which offers easy access when loading and unloading the tray.

HiLux owners can choose either lightweight aluminium or heavy-duty steel Toyota Genuine Tray Bodies.

The Tray Bodies now incorporate specifically engineered mounting points for optional Rear Parking Sensor and Reversing Camera* (sold separately).

Toyota Genuine Aluminium Tray Bodies feature an advanced new generation of quick-lock hinges with an innovative locking and unlocking action that minimises the risk of hand and finger injuries while loading and unloading the tray.

The high-strength plastic hinges are almost three times stronger than the metal hinges they replace. There are no sharp edges and they will not corrode.

Toyota Genuine Aluminium Tray Bodies also feature internal tie-down rails, which helps increase the stability of shallow and small loads that sit below the tray line while offering more flexibility when choosing tie-down points for high or short loads.

The optional Rear Ladder Rack features a single-bolt, quick-release attachment that allows you to easily remove it when you need more space in the tray to carry larger loads, or simply want to sweep-out the tray.

^Towbar capacity subject to regulatory requirements, towbar design, vehicle design and towing equipment limitations. Ask your Dealer for details of Toyota Genuine Towbar capacity and availability.

* Rear Parking Sensor and Reversing Camera are designed as driver assistance devices only and should not be used as a substitute for skilled driving and safe parking practices. The area into which the vehicle is to be reversed must be visually monitored by the driver while parking.