2022 Toyota Hilux GR Sport: 10 Must-Know Features That Redefine Pickup Performance
I remember the first time I saw the 2022 Toyota Hilux GR Sport prototype at a motorshow – it struck me how Toyota had managed to transform what was essentially a workhorse into something that genuinely excited my automotive senses. Having tested numerous pickup trucks over my 15 years in automotive journalism, I've developed a particular appreciation for models that successfully bridge utility and performance, and this latest Hilux iteration does exactly that while bringing some serious sporting credentials to the table. The transformation reminds me of how certain basketball teams can suddenly shift from defensive play to explosive offense – much like how TNT started their game "like a house on fire" with Pogoy nailing three consecutive threes in one stretch to open a 29-18 lead at the end of the first quarter. That sudden burst of energy and precision is exactly what Toyota has injected into the Hilux with the GR Sport treatment.
When you first lay eyes on the Hilux GR Sport, the visual upgrades immediately signal this isn't your average pickup. The bold black mesh grille with those striking red GR badges gives it an aggressive front fascia that means business, while the 18-inch alloy wheels wrapped in 265/60 R18 all-terrain tires provide both style and substance. What impressed me most during my test drive was how these aesthetic changes complemented the performance enhancements rather than just serving as cosmetic additions. The lowered suspension – about 20mm lower than the standard Hilux – makes a noticeable difference in handling without compromising too much on ground clearance. I've driven plenty of modified pickups where owners sacrificed practicality for looks, but Toyota's engineers have struck what I consider to be the perfect balance here.
Under the hood, the 2.8-liter turbo-diesel engine produces 204 horsepower and 500 Nm of torque, which represents a significant bump from the standard model's 177 horsepower. Now I know some competitors offer slightly higher numbers on paper, but what matters is how this power translates to real-world performance, and here the Hilux GR Sport absolutely delivers. The revised engine mapping provides sharper throttle response, eliminating that frustrating lag I've often criticized in diesel pickups. The first time I accelerated onto a highway entrance ramp, the surge of power felt remarkably linear for a diesel engine, building momentum smoothly rather than hitting with a sudden jolt that could overwhelm the rear wheels. This refined power delivery makes the truck feel more sophisticated than its workhorse origins might suggest.
The suspension retuning might be the most impressive aspect of the GR Sport package. The front suspension features new shock absorbers with revised damping characteristics, while the rear leaf springs have been recalibrated for better handling stability. During my testing on winding mountain roads – not typically where you'd take a pickup truck – the body roll was remarkably controlled for a vehicle of this height and weight. I pushed it harder than most owners probably will through consecutive corners and found the limits were surprisingly high, with progressive understeer warning me when I was approaching the edge of its capabilities. The steering has been sharpened too, with a quicker ratio that makes the truck feel more agile than its dimensions would suggest. It's not sports car sharp, but for a pickup, the precision is genuinely impressive.
Inside the cabin, the GR Sport treatment continues with sports seats that provide excellent lateral support during enthusiastic driving. The leather-wrapped steering wheel feels substantial in hand, and the red stitching throughout the interior adds a sporty touch without feeling overdone. What I particularly appreciate is that Toyota hasn't compromised practicality – you still get the same generous cabin space and payload capacity as the standard Hilux. The 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system is responsive and intuitive, though I would have liked wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto at this price point. The sound system delivers decent audio quality, but honestly, my favorite soundtrack came from the engine note that Toyota engineers have subtly enhanced to provide a satisfying growl under acceleration.
The transmission deserves special mention – the 6-speed automatic shifts smoothly in normal driving but becomes remarkably responsive in Sport mode. Using the paddle shifters, I found the gear changes crisp and immediate, holding gears right to the redline when desired. This transforms the driving experience significantly, allowing you to maintain the engine in its power band when tackling twisty roads. The braking system has been upgraded too, with larger front discs that provide confident stopping power even when carrying moderate loads. During my testing, I conducted several emergency stops from 100 km/h and was impressed by the minimal fade and straight-line stability.
Off-road capability remains strong despite the sportier focus. The Hilux GR Sport retains the segment-leading 800mm wading depth and features an electronically controlled four-wheel-drive system with low-range gearing. I took it through some moderately challenging trails and found the approach and departure angles sufficient for most off-road scenarios owners are likely to encounter. The all-terrain tires provide decent grip on loose surfaces, though serious off-road enthusiasts might want to swap them for more aggressive rubber. What surprised me was how competent the GR Sport felt when switching between on-road and off-road environments – it transitions seamlessly between these contrasting roles.
Toyota has paid attention to the details that matter to enthusiasts. The GR Sport features a dual-mode exhaust that provides a more characterful note in Sport mode without becoming obtrusive during highway cruising. The LED headlights offer excellent illumination for night driving, and the various drive modes – Eco, Normal, and Sport – genuinely transform the vehicle's character. In Sport mode, the throttle mapping sharpens, the transmission holds gears longer, and the steering weight increases meaningfully. These aren't just marketing gimmicks; they create distinctly different driving experiences that allow the Hilux GR Sport to adapt to various situations and driver preferences.
Having spent a week with the Hilux GR Sport, I came away convinced that Toyota has created something special here. It successfully combines the rugged capability that has made the Hilux legendary with sporting dynamics that make it genuinely engaging to drive. While it commands approximately a 15% premium over the standard model, the comprehensive upgrades justify the additional cost for buyers seeking both utility and performance. The Hilux GR Sport represents how far the pickup truck segment has evolved – from basic work vehicles to sophisticated machines capable of satisfying both practical needs and driving enthusiasts' desires. In a market segment crowded with competent alternatives, the Hilux GR Sport stands out by offering a unique blend of attributes that few competitors can match.
