New suspension and styling mods take the fight to the diesel Ford Ranger Raptor
GEORGE BARROW
TESTED 17.10.23, ATHENS, GREECE ON SALE SPRING
Performance pick-ups were once the preserve of a few crazy modifiers in the US tuning V8s in full-size trucks like the Ford F-150. Without the luxury of wide roads and large parking spaces, European pick-ups have mostly remained unfettled, but since Ford unleashed the Ranger Raptor, more attention has been given to bolder, more badass and better iterations of standard trucks.
Toyota jumped on the bandwagon last year with the Hilux GR Sport, a range-topping model with styling mods and minor front suspension changes. Despite the smattering of Gazoo Racing badges, new sports bar and revised grille design, under the skin it left everyone rather disappointed. Now, Toyota is looking to redress the balance with the Hilux GR Sport II, which ushers in more substantial changes.
These are most noticeable in the vehicle’s increased width. The front axle has been widened by 70mm with a new stabiliser bar and repositioned shock absorbers that are now 46mm in diameter. It’s a similar story at the rear, where the bigger shocks have been positioned outside of the ladder chassis. As a result, the GR Sport II gets squared-off flared wheel arches in contrasting black trim. European models will have a more aerodynamic sports bar, a revised black mesh grille, black side steps and new 17in alloy wheels that partially conceal red brake calipers to complete the external makeover.
On the inside, there are black suede and leather sports seats, red seatbelts, sports pedals and a new dashboard design with an 8.0in touchscreen for wireless Apple CarPlay or wired Android Auto. There are GR logos aplenty on the revised dials and headrests too.
Altogether, it’s a far more comprehensive effort than the first GR Sport edition of the Hilux.
Ride height has risen by a modest 20mm, which increases the approach angle from 29deg to 30deg, but there are no changes to the standard 2.8-litre engine, which produces 201bhp and 369lb ft.
Nevertheless, the upgrades that have been done are pretty significant to the truck’s overall feel. Most noticeable is the increased amount of grip now available. The GR Sport II holds the road far better than the standard Hilux, although, when really pushed, the nose does have a tendency to understeer.
Its wider stance and improved suspension also have a positive impact on the ri
