A Fortuner owner adds a Hilux Standard to his garage: 4 pros & 4 cons

I must admit pickup truck is something that fascinated me and F150 Raptor will always remain a dream.

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Fortuner gets company, bought Hilux Standard MT variant . Thar DI despite low running is 8 years old and was creating bit of problems despite serving purpose. Was looking to replace for sometime and was keen on new Thar. The new gen Thar lacks utility and is more of a lifestyle vehicle. Jimny scored slightly better interns of utility but still wasn't even to close my use case. That said I love how both look and should be amazing performers offroad in its stock form.

Since I need utility, was looking at pickup trucks despite their sheer size. I must admit pickup truck is something that fascinated me and F150 Raptor will always remain a dream. Bolero camper looked near perfect but then 4x4 variants don't have basic creature comfort/safety and Gold does not come in 4x4. DMAX has become expensive at 30L for 4x4 and is a generation older. Isuzu doesn't have a strong footprint either. Hilux while looked good was never considered due to outrageous pricing. Got to know about good discounts and Standard variant turned out be perfect for my use case. Cheaper price tag, 4x4 gear with proper low range transfer case, basic creature comforts and full suite of safety features, couldn't ask for more. Booked one which was in stock and bought home in a week's time.

Comparison with Innova/Fortuner

While all 3 are built in same platform , each one is a different animal. The Innova is low on power, you sit lower and is comfortable especially at rear with those fantastic bucket seats. The preferred car for family outings. Being BS4, is epitome of reliability, fill it shut it forget it.

Fortuner is a different beast. The additional torque can be felt compared to MT Hilux, and ride is much more supple compared Hilux which has leaf springs at rear. On open highway Fortuner is the one that is most comfortable, fun to drive and confidence inspiring at higher speeds. Also feels upmarket inside.

The Hilux is the most intimidating one. Front looks butch with massive grille, and you sit bit higher than Fortuner. The 6 speed manual is slick shifting unit by Body on frame standards and clutch is light. Car can easily move from standstill in 2nd gear. Engine note is bit different compared to 2.8 AT and insulation is decent. I am yet to load the bay and should be able to carry load much better than other two. Hilux has oodles of character, and being a niche vehicle/low seller and massive footprint means is an attention magnet.

Hilux is CKD where as Fortuner is locally built(almost). Paint quality overall looked similar and interiors too could not see much difference w.r.to quality. May be the dashboard of Hilux is bolted slightly better but feels of similar grade. While design is different , both look similar and I can't figure out which one looks better.

Hilux positives

• Scores very high on utility.
• Powerful engine, nice gearbox and strong 4x4 gear.
• Decent amount of features and feels upmarket compared to competition.
• Toyota's reliability and after sales is unmatched.

Hilux negatives

• Pricey(before discount) and being CKD some parts may not be easily available.
• Toyota's DPF implementation is not the best and owners have reported few issues.
• Despite sheer size, space utilization is not great.
• A minor one, the horn sounds very meek from inside. The Innova/Fortuner one's sound better for some reason.

The Hilux is primarily intended to be used as a workhorse and take over farm duties. I am curious to see how the car will perform off road when loaded . Yes the ride is unsettled but then who buys a pickup for a plaint ride? The Fortuner will continue to do the touring and Innova for sometime now will be used as a beater. That wraps up the T garage comparison and a quick intro of Fortuner's new company-Hilux.

Other than bedliner, roll bar have opted for only standard accessories including mats/mudflaps. Thankfully standard variant is already de-chromed from factory

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