Toyota Hilux 2018 Review

In the Malaysian pickup truck market, models that balance daily commuting, cargo transportation, and light off-road needs have always been popular choices among consumers. The 2018 Toyota Hilux Double Cab 2.4 L-Edition AT 4x4 is a representative player in this segment. It distinguishes itself with features such as 7 airbags for safety and 18-inch alloy wheels, while maintaining the durability reputation of the Hilux series. This test will focus on verifying whether it meets the needs of family users and small-to-medium-sized business owners in terms of power response, seating practicality, and configuration balance.

From the exterior, this vehicle continues the tough design style of the Hilux family, with an overall boxy and powerful appearance. The front face adopts a large trapezoidal grille, paired with chrome trims for a high level of recognizability. The prominent wheel arch lines on the side of the body, paired with 265/65R18 tires, enhance the off-road appeal. The rear design features a simple taillight shape that aligns with the overall style, and the black skid plate under the rear bumper adds to its practicality. In terms of lighting, it comes equipped with halogen headlights and front fog lights. The automatic headlight function can automatically adjust based on ambient light, making everyday use more convenient.

Inside the car, the interior features a dark color scheme with a neat layout and clear functional divisions. The center console is made of hard plastic materials with a moderate texture, and the seams are handled relatively evenly, meeting the standards expected at this price point. The multifunction steering wheel includes basic buttons for volume adjustment and answering calls, which are easy to operate. The instrument panel features backlit analog dials with clear and intuitive displays, enabling quick reading of core information such as engine rpm and speed. In terms of features, the keyless entry and start system enhance convenience for daily use. The manually adjustable front air conditioning system is simple and straightforward, and the 220V/230V power outlet can satisfy outdoor electricity needs. The rear seats support a 60:40 split-folding configuration, which, when folded down, expands the trunk space—ideal for storing long items.

In terms of space performance, the vehicle measures 5330mm in length, 1855mm in width, and 1815mm in height, with a wheelbase of 3085mm, making it a mainstream size in its class. The front-row seating area is spacious, with a 175cm-tall tester having more than a fist's worth of headroom after adjusting the seat position. The rear legroom is about two fists, with one fist of headroom, which meets the daily travel needs of families. Regarding storage, the door panel storage slots can accommodate large water bottles, and the center armrest compartment has moderate depth, allowing for the storage of small personal items.

The power system is equipped with a 2.4L naturally aspirated diesel engine, delivering a maximum power of 150PS at 3400rpm and a peak torque output that can be achieved as low as 1600rpm. It is paired with an automatic transmission and a four-wheel-drive system. During everyday driving, the power response at the start is smooth yet robust; a light push on the accelerator is sufficient to move the vehicle, which is suitable for urban traffic conditions. During acceleration, gear shifts in the transmission are smooth without any noticeable jerks. When overtaking, pressing the accelerator firmly provides sufficient power reserves, and the acceleration performance below 80km/h is stable. On light off-road terrain, switching to four-wheel-drive mode significantly enhances the vehicle’s passability. When climbing inclines, the low-end torque output is sufficient, eliminating the need for frequent gear changes.

The handling and chassis performance align with the positioning of a rugged pickup truck. The double wishbone front independent suspension filters out most of the fine vibrations when driving on bumpy roads, providing good comfort for rear passengers. The steering wheel offers moderate resistance and precise directional control, making everyday driving less tiring. The braking system features front ventilated disc brakes with a linear feedback from the brake pedal, and the body remains stable during emergency braking. In terms of noise control, the diesel engine noise is slightly pronounced at idle, but while driving, wind and tire noise are within an acceptable range, and basic conversation clarity is maintained even at high speeds. Fuel economy performance is average, with a fuel consumption of about 9-10L/100km under mixed road conditions. The 80L fuel tank capacity offers a long driving range, making it suitable for long-distance travel.

Compared to other models in the same series, the 2018 Hilux 2.4 L-Edition AT 4x4 stands out in terms of safety features and exterior details: the inclusion of 7 airbags is relatively rare among vehicles in the same price range, and the 18-inch alloy wheels exude more class compared to the 17-inch steel wheels of the STD version. Although it lacks power-adjustable seats when compared to the higher configuration 2.4G AT 4x4 (IMP), its price is approximately 8000RM lower, offering excellent value for money. Overall, this vehicle is suitable for users who prioritize safety while also needing to balance family travel with light off-road capability, such as small to medium business owners frequently traveling between suburban and urban areas, or families who enjoy weekend road trips.

In summary, the 2018 Toyota Hilux Double Cab 2.4 L-Edition AT 4x4 is a well-balanced pickup truck. It retains the durability and off-road capability of the Hilux series while upgrading its safety features to cater to family users' needs. Furthermore, its price is reasonable, making it a worthy consideration in its segment.