Toyota Hilux Raider 2.8 GD-6 48V

For decades, South Africans have relied on the Toyota Hilux to conquer any terrain, carry any load and just keep going. Times are changing and Toyota has thrown a curveball: the Hilux Raider 48V injecting a dose of electrification into the formula. Siya Mbaduli has experienced the model to see if it can enhance the traditional strengths of a bakkie.

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What do we drive and why is this important?

The Toyota Hilux has been a mainstay in South Africa for more than five decades, with eight generations (1968-present) cementing its reputation for unwavering toughness. Now the arrival of the Hilux Raider 48v in 2024 marks a significant departure from tradition. This 8th generation model integrates a 48v mild hybrid system into the well-established formula. The move marks a bold move for Toyota, which is venturing into electrification within a segment where pure power and capacity have historically been the primary focus.

The Hilux Raider 48V isn’t just about offering a greener option; the hybrid system promises both improved fuel efficiency and a performance boost. This innovative approach raises intriguing questions. Can a hybrid system really complement the traditional strengths of a bakkie like the Hilux? Will the electrified legend maintain the robustness and reliability synonymous with the Hilux name? By the time you finish reading this, all those questions will have been answered. However, one thing is certain: the Hilux Raider 48V heralds a new era for this South African icon, blurring the lines between legendary ruggedness and modern efficiency.

What’s new in the Toyota Hilux Raider 2.8 GD-6?

The Hilux Raider 48V throws a curveball into the traditional bakkie formula with its innovative 48-volt mild hybrid system. Unlike full hybrids with larger batteries that can propel the vehicle over longer distances on electric power alone, the Hilux’s system focuses on improving efficiency. The core is formed by a compact and lightweight lithium-ion battery. This battery pack consists of only 13 cells, with a capacity of 4.3 ampere hours. While this may seem small on paper, it does translate to a total of 207 Watts of stored energy. In simple terms, this battery prioritises efficiency gains over enabling long distances of electric-only driving.

The system intelligently captures energy that would otherwise be lost during braking and deceleration. This captured energy then charges the battery, ultimately resulting in lower fuel consumption. In addition, the electric motor can deliver short bursts of power to support the engine during acceleration. This translates into a potential performance boost, making the driving experience even more responsive. In addition, the battery’s lightweight design, which tips the scales at just 7.6 kilograms, minimizes the overall weight increase of the vehicle to a minimum.

The new Hilux Raider also receives a cosmetic refresh with a redesigned front bumper and a new honeycomb grille for a bolder look. The fog lamp bezels also receive a honeycomb treatment, adding a touch of uniformity. On the 2.8 Raider, black exterior accents extend to the door handles and wing mirrors, while the 2.4 Raider retains colour-coded grab handles. Inside, the 2.8 Raider features the comfort of leather seats with 8-way electric adjustment for the driver. Switching to the 48V option on the 2.8 brings additional convenience features such as one-touch electric windows, push-button start with smart access and a multi-terrain selection system for tackling different off-road conditions.

How does the Toyota Hilux Raider 2.8 GD-6 48V drive?

Taking to the road in the new Hilux Raider 48V promises a subtly improved driving experience. The mild hybrid capabilities of the 48-volt system are evident, particularly during acceleration. The electric motor assistance provides a gentle nudge as you depress the pedal, noticeably reducing the turbo lag often associated with diesel engines. While the focus is on efficiency, this translates into a touch more bite off the line. In addition, the regenerative braking system provides a slightly different feel when decelerating, requiring a slight adjustment to braking habits. Overall, the 48V system doesn’t drastically alter the Hilux’s driving character, but it does introduce a welcome layer of refinement and a touch of increased responsiveness.

Related: Updated Toyota Hilux Raider – Prices and specifications

Under the hood, the mild-hybrid system shines. Slowing down becomes an opportunity to recover some of that braking energy and redirect it for later use. This system initiate a shift in areas where the engine might be less efficient, particularly to smooth acceleration and improve responsiveness. Toyota claims you’ll see a 12kW boost in power and a 65Nm increase in torque, compared to the 150kW and 500Nm you’ll find in non-MHEV models respectively. The main benefit of this hybrid system, though, is an estimated 7-11% improvement in fuel economy.

It is important to remember that this is a mild hybrid system. Don’t expect a huge power surge or quiet operation. The Hilux still retains its core feature: a powerful diesel engine built for work.

How much does the Toyota Hilux Raider 2.8 GD-6 cost?

Additional cabin

Hilux Raider 2.4 GD-6 Xtra cabin MT — R563 200
Hilux Raider 2.4 GD-6 Xtra cabin AT — R587 200

Double cabin

Hilux Raider 2.4 GD-6 DC MT — R612 100
Hilux Raider 2.4 GD-6 DC AT — R633 200
Hilux Raider 2.4 GD-6 4×4 DC MT — R684 800
Hilux Raider 2.4 GD-6 4×4 DC AT — R716 300
Hilux Raider 2.8 GD-6 DC AT — R769 900
Hilux Raider 2.8 GD-6 DC AT 48V — R785 400
Hilux Raider 2.8 GD-6 4×4 DC AT — R858 600
Hilux Raider 2.8 GD-6 4×4 DC AT 48V — R876 600

What are the Toyota Hilux Raider 2.8 GD-6 rivals?

The Hilux Raider 48V steps into a competitive bakkie arena. The Ford Ranger throws down the gauntlet a seriesengine options, including a fuel-efficient bi-turbo diesel (154 kW/500 Nm), all starting at around R514,800. The Isuzu D-Max 3.0TD Double Cab V-Cross (from R867,600) offers legendary reliability and a proven 140kW/450Nm diesel, while the range-topping Nissan Navara 2.5DDTi Double Cab Pro-4X is priced from R832,400 and offers comfort and user-friendly technology with its diesel offering, including a powerful V6 (140 kW/450 Nm).

The Volkswagen Amarok 2.0BiTDI Double Cab Life 4Motion (R848 400) features a luxurious interior and an overall exterior style that looks cool. Of power figures of 154 kW and 500 Nm, making it a classy competitor. The Hilux 48V (from R785 400) brings a hybrid advantage to the table. The The efficiency improvement and potential responsiveness of the mild hybrid system puts the system in an attractive position, providing a balance between traditional cup capabilities and modern efficiency improvements.

Pronunciation

The Hilux 48V stays true to its workhorse roots with a powerful diesel engine, but subtly sweetens the deal with a mild hybrid system. Expect a touch of refinement, a potential boost in responsiveness and the most enticing benefit: an estimated 7-11% improvement in fuel efficiency. While not an all-electric marvel, the 48V system positions the Hilux for a greener future without sacrificing any of its core strengths. It’s a familiar workhorse with a penchant for modern efficiency.