Toyota Hilux GR-S 2,8 GD-6 4X4 automatic review – Into the wild part 2

In an effort to capture even more market share of the bustling bakkie segment Toyota has officially launched its boldest and sportiest model yet and let us behind the wheel of their Hilux GR-S 2,8 GD-6 4X4 automatic in the magnificent Greater Kruger area.

GR-S

Image: Toyota

Unlike the previous Hilux GR-Sport from 2019 which was limited to a production run of juts 535 this model will be a permanent fixture in the range. On Wednesday morning we were woken up by the sounds of the  Arrow-marked Babbler bird and a variety of other noises, amongst the intense heat. Each suite has a wonderful AC fitted though, so a few minutes later we had cooled down and could prepare to head out on our sunrise game drive.

Then we altered on to the main attraction of this getaway experience,  which of course was getting behind the wheel of the 165 kW 550 N.m Toyota Hilux GR-S. We were briefed on what the day would look like and before we knew it we were dashing off to choose our favourite coloured vehicle and hitting the road. The Arizona red pictured here is certainly a favourite. We drove to Graskop, via God’s window: bucklist item checked off, and really out the Hilux through its paces as we… (say something about the driving experience).

GR-S

Image: Toyota

We enjoyed some pancakes at Harrie’s once our stomachs were settled (we were told that this is a must when in Graskop, and this is absolutely accurate) and then we drove out in convoy some more through the town where cows and their calfs crossed the road politely, and of course we broke a few necks with all eyes on the Hilux bakkies as we made our way back to Kapama Private Game Lodge.

We enjoyed a variety of Gin & Tonic combinations with all of the fruits and herbs to keep the doctor away, and this was accompanied by yummy snacks and some other drinks for those who didn’t quite fancy a G&T. With our bellies full and our tanks topped up, where set off for a night time Game Drive. We spent most of the time on the search for Lions as we were alerted that they were spotted  and we were determined to see them too. We found one sleeping peacefully,  and spent about 10 minutes in its presence learning about it while watching it open its eyes and roll them back to sleep again. The goosebumps were present, the hearts were pounding like a bongo drum, but the beauty of nature overwhelmed us all and in that peaceful moment, everything felt okay with the world…

GR-S

Image: Toyota

Click here for part 1

The full Toyota Hilux GR-S 2,8 GD-6 4X4 automatic launch review will feature in the CAR February 2023 issue on store shelves January 13th.

 

FAST FACTS:

  • Engine: 2,8-litre four-cylinder turbodiesel
  • Power: 165 kW
  • Torque: 550 N.m
  • Transmission:  Six-speed automatic

Stay tuned for part 3 as we head to the Blyde River Canyon.

The post Toyota Hilux GR-S 2,8 GD-6 4X4 automatic review – Into the wild part 2 appeared first on CAR Magazine.


The Car Guide

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Topical tips on buying used – Chapter 1

Image
Buying a used car can be harrowing, whether privately or from a dealer. Here are some tips, as well as some things to watch out for. Beware of low mileages, especially on smaller or cheaper cars. It is always possible that the odometer has been turned back. Some things to bear in mind are:- diesels are often bought because they the driver needs to undertake long trips without consuming vast amounts of fuel. This could be a sales rep, or someone travelling large distances to work, lots of lengthy trip for family holidays, etc. So, usually higher mileages than normal. An expensive or luxury car may not see much time on the road, but very seldom a “workhorse”. This makes the executive cars likely to have a lot more life left than the overworked and abused hatchback. These also spend most of their life in a home garage or undercover parking lot at work. Related: Someone paid more for a mint BMW 325iS Evo 2 than a used M4 A vehicle without any service history is a serious disadvantage...
Read more

Top 10 Best-Selling Automotive Brands Locally – April 2024

Image
Following eight consecutive months of sales decline, the milestone of celebrating a century of vehicle production locally saw a welcomed increase in the motor industry for April 2024. Have a look at the data below, which sees Toyota drop in sales but retain the top spot, with Suzuki moving into second and Nissan dropping to the bottom of the list without the NP200 rolling off of the production line. Image: Toyota Looking for your next new or used Porsche? Find it here with CARmag! South Africa is marking 2024 as a significant year for its automotive industry, celebrating 100 years of car manufacturing. Mikel Mabasa, CEO of naamsa , the country’s automotive business council, commented, “As the sun rises on a century of automotive innovation, South Africa proudly commemorates a century of automobile manufacturing excellence. This milestone reflects a journey of resilience, ingenuity, and passion that has shaped the nation’s automotive legacy.” Details on how the industry will commem...
Read more

Could this teased Lancia sports car be a reborn Stratos?

Image
Lancia recently teased a coupe-looking model, waiting to be unveiled in their Multiverse. Could this then, signify the return of a historic moniker like the Stratos to the struggling automaker? Image: Lancia #MakeLanciaGreatAgain – a social media phrase that has been making the rounds for the better part of a decade. World Rally Championship titles, Formula 1 single-seat winners and some other gems in between. The Italian automaker litters dates in history and motorsport, with some truly revolutionary ideas and models that aided their bid to become one of the most successful motorsport manufacturers of all time. But that is all in the past. Lancia now contends sole markets with a platform-shared model but there have been ambitious plans under Stellantis ownership to kick-start the automaker and make them great again… words that delight so many enthusiasts and aficionados. Related: Automobili Amos debut Martini Racing Livery Lancia Delta and Safarista What better way to do this th...
Read more