The 9th Gen Toyota Hilux Single Cab has arrived

By: Dylan Naidoo

Following the roll-out of the all-new 9th-generation Toyota Hilux, the double cab-variant of the new Hilux was the first of its kind to roll-off the assembly line. This was a grand milestone. Not only did it signify Toyota’s reliance on the KZN province but also emphasised KZN as the central hub for distributing the popular bakkies across both Africa and Europe. In addition, according to Denis Droppa from BusinessDay, the Hilux remains South Africa’s bestselling vehicle. And now, after a bit of a wait, the new single cab variant of the 9^th-gen Hilux has finally arrived.

Unlike its double cab variant, the single cab Hilux, just like its predecessors, is positioned as a more utilitarian work truck aimed directly at heavy workloads and long-distance driving. Building upon its world-class durability and reliability, Toyota continues to pair this Hilux with the 2.8L GD-6 diesel engine sitting on the continuing IMV Hilux platform utilising a ladder-frame chassis purposely built for heavy payloads and towing.

As of now, the single cab variant of the Hilux is only available in the “SRX” trim, in both 4x4 and 4x2 trims, starting at R587,200. We should also note that these trims are only available in an automatic transmission. However, with the aggressive push of the 9th generation Hilux, we should quickly see the “Raider” and “SR” variants of the Hilux Single Cab eventually move to the new body style very soon.

This is also the case with the smaller diesel engines, as reported by Jason Woosey from IOL News, explaining that the smaller 2.4L diesel engine should be paired soon to the 9th generation Hilux, along with the manual transmission.

Interestingly, the load capacity of the new Hilux is not mentioned on Toyota’s site. However, Jason Woosey from IOL does mention that the load capacity for the 4x2 model is 845Kg, and 920Kg for the 4x4 variant. What is mentioned by Toyota is the tow capacity, rated at 3500Kg for the 4x4 variant and 2800kg for the 4x2 variant, however, these are specifically for braked tow loads.

As usual with the Hilux, the bakkie features advanced safety aids that has proven its reliability and dependability over the years. These include an array of airbags, braking assist, ABS and EBD, as well as a hill-assist feature. The limited slip differential (LSD) is available for certain Hilux models.

Proudly built in South Africa, the 9th generation single cab Toyota Hilux marks the Durban-built bakkie’s next evolution into the workforce. With updated looks, the bakkie remains true to its origins as a Toyota built bakkie designed to combat tough terrain and heavy loads. After all, it's not a bakkie, it's a Hilux.

The new 9th Generation Toyota Hilux Single-Cab. Image by Toyota South African Motors