2020 Toyota Hilux Double Cab 2.4V AT 4X4 Review

In Malaysia's pickup truck market, practical and well-equipped models have always been the consumer mainstream, and the 2020 Toyota Hilux Double Cab 2.4V AT 4X4 targets this specific segment. It not only continues the consistent reliability of the Hilux series but also offers segment-leading safety upgrades. With its 150PS diesel engine and 4X4 system, it meets the demands of multiple scenarios — in this test drive, we focus on whether it can balance both daily household use and light off-road needs.

In terms of appearance, this Hilux maintains the classic silhouette of a rugged pickup truck, with vehicle dimensions of 5330mm×1855mm×1815mm and a wheelbase of 3085mm. The overall lines are squared and robust. At the front, the wide chrome grille is paired with halogen and LED combination headlights on both sides, providing high recognition; automatic headlights and front fog lights are standard, fully boosting practicality. The side profile features pronounced fender lines complemented by 265/65 R17 tires, creating a powerful impression. The rear design is simple, with vertically aligned rear fog lights and an embedded rearview camera, aligning with the practical profile of a utility vehicle.

Opening the door, the interior primarily features dark plastics and fabric materials with an orderly layout. The center console is equipped with a 6.75-inch touchscreen that supports Sound Plus functionality, and the six speakers offer sound quality adequate for daily use. The 4.2-inch multi-function instrument panel displays information like fuel consumption and four-wheel-drive status, allowing drivers to check at any time. In terms of features, keyless entry and an 8-way power-adjustable front seat are positives. The rear row also includes air-conditioning vents; however, the front air-conditioning controls are manual, which is slightly disappointing. Storage space is decent — door panels and the central armrest box can hold a fair amount of items, and the rear seats support 60:40 folding, making it convenient to carry large items occasionally.

In terms of space, the 3085mm wheelbase provides ample rear legroom, leaving about two fist-widths of space for a 175cm passenger, and headroom is not cramped either. The rear row is equipped with ISO FIX mounts, making it suitable for families to install child seats. Although specific cargo capacity data is not provided for the bed, the pickup truck's bed inherently supports substantial loading capacity, making it easy to transport goods or camping equipment for daily use.

In the power segment, the 2.4L turbocharged diesel engine has a maximum power output of 150PS, with peak torque delivered as early as 1600rpm. Paired with an automatic transmission, the power response is immediate during start and at low speeds. When switched to four-wheel-drive mode, it handles light off-road conditions (such as muddy roads or gravel paths) with confidence, and the minimum ground clearance of 286mm ensures good off-road capability. During daily driving, the steering wheel has moderate steering weight, and the combination of double wishbone front suspension and leaf spring rear suspension absorbs most minor bumps on paved roads. However, the rear suspension feels a bit stiff when going over speed bumps. Fuel efficiency is average, with combined fuel consumption at approximately 8-9L/100km.

Safety features are a major highlight of this Hilux. It comes standard with seven airbags (including knee airbags and front and rear head curtain airbags), vehicle stability control, lane departure alert, lane-change assist, and an emergency braking system. This level of comprehensive safety equipment is rare among models in the same segment. As for noise control, the idle noise of the diesel engine is slightly noticeable, but while driving, wind noise and road noise are well-controlled and do not affect conversations inside the cabin.

Overall, the core advantage of the 2020 Toyota Hilux Double Cab 2.4V AT 4X4 lies in its balance—reliable diesel power, practical 4X4 system, superior safety features, while also providing space and comfort to meet family needs. Compared to its counterparts like the Ford Ranger or Isuzu D-Max, its safety features are more comprehensive, and its price of RM 145,880 offers great value for money. It is suitable for users who need the loading capacity of a pickup truck while prioritizing everyday comfort and safety, such as small business owners, families who enjoy camping, or office workers who occasionally need to go off-road.

In conclusion, this Hilux has no obvious shortcomings and is an all-round pickup truck capable of balancing work and life. It continues Toyota's consistent reputation for reliability and is worth considering.