Toyota Hilux Raider 48V: The Making of Modern Toughness

Toyota South Africa Motors (TSAM) unveils a bolder, refreshed Hilux Raider, innovative 48V technology on selected Hilux double cabs, as well as a host of Toyota-approved accessories.

  • Innovative 48V Technology
  • Refreshed Hilux Raider
  • Toyota-approved accessories

It was exactly a year ago that a Toyota Hilux Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicle (MHEV) conducted a successful demo run at a World Rally Championship event in Kenya last year. Fast forward 12 months later, that technology is now exclusively available in the form of 48V in select Hilux and Fortuner models.

The introduction of 48V technology to Hilux and Fortuner is in line with Toyota’s multi-pathway approach, which encompasses diverse eco-friendly technologies through various powertrain options.

Toyota believes that in order to significantly reduce carbon emissions, it should offer different powertrains – including hydrogen internal combustion engine vehicle (HICEV), fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV), plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV), hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) and even conventional internal combustion engines (ICE) powered by alternative fuels.

The 48V technology is therefore a step in the direction towards achieving carbon neutrality for Toyota.

48V (Mild Hybrid) Technology

  • Power Boost of 12Kw
  • Torque Boost of 65Nm
  • Efficiency improvement

Exclusive to select 4x2 and 4x4 double-cab Legend and Raider grades as well as Fortuner, the 48V technology is a game-changer. It incorporates a motor generator, 48-volt battery, and DC/DC converter into the reliable 2.8-litre GD-6 turbo-diesel four-cylinder powertrain and six-speed automatic transmission. This not only enhances fuel economy and powertrain smoothness but also elevates the vehicle’s off-road capabilities.

One of the most significant advantages of the 48V technology is its impact on fuel consumption. By enabling the fitment of a stop-start system to the turbo-diesel engine, it can reduce fuel consumption by approximately 10% compared to normal 2.8-litre engines.

The 48V system makes the stop-start system impressively smooth and seamless. The speed of the engine restart is also noticeably short, adding to the smooth nature of the start-stop system.

Fitting a 48V system also allows the engine to be switched off for longer than a typical internal combustion engine when stopped in traffic. Engine idling speed is reduced in these technology grades, from 720rpm to 600rpm.

When decelerating, the motor generator recovers braking energy, contributing to a natural braking feeling and making driving easier. When accelerating, the motor generator can provide power assistance in areas of lower engine efficiency to increase responsiveness and smooth acceleration.

Hilux 4x4 (and Fortuner) variants equipped with 48V technology add Multi-Terrain Select, which includes modes that enhance wheel traction on a range of road surfaces.

The motor generator unit has been positioned high in the engine bay to ensure the technology system retains the excellent off-road ability of the Hilux.

The 48V technology is competitively priced, only commanding a small premium over the equivalent non-electrified model, thus offering exceptional value for consumers. “The addition of 48V for a small price premium, along with other valuable specification and styling improvements, ensures that the Hilux is more desirable than ever,” says Glenn Compton, Vice President of Marketing at TSAM.

Striking New Looks

All Raider grades gain a new front-end visual refresh, which includes a redesigned front bumper, honeycomb mesh grille, and newly designed fog lamp bezels.

Other new design elements include black side mirrors and door handles (on the 2.8 models), and rear bumper and tailgate handle – marking a discernible departure from chrome accents.

The 2.4 model gains retractable mirrors, while the 2.8 boasts leather seats and 8-way power seat adjustment on the driver’s side. The Raider 48V adds jam protection, auto up/down windows on all windows, push start, smart entry, and Multi-Terrain Select.

Toyota-Approved Accessories

In addition, customers investing in the refreshed Raider can also customise their vehicles with a wide range of Toyota-approved lifestyle accessories – such as roof racks, cross bars, rooftop tents, roof boxes, bike carriers, fridges, recovery boards, solar panels, and more.

The lifestyle range complements the existing array of accessories, including tow bars, styling bars, nudge bars, side steps and canopies.

The great news is that customers can order and fit these accessories through their Toyota dealer and invoice with their vehicles for a one-stop-shop experience.

Collaborating with respected suppliers such as Ironman 4x4, 4x4 Megaworld, Front Runner, IVXIVBUSHINDABA, and Thule, the accessories range is competitively priced and offers convenience through Toyota dealers across South Africa and neighbouring countries.

With these enhancements, the refreshed Hilux Raider solidifies its position as the ultimate choice for South Africans who appreciate performance, style, and uncompromising versatility. “The enhanced Hilux range brings welcome enhancements to the range, ensuring that SA’s favourite bakkie remains a popular choice for commercial and adventure-focused customers alike,” adds Crompton.

The accessories are compatible with various lifestyle vehicles such as Hilux, Fortuner, Land Cruiser Prado, Land Cruiser 70 Series and Land Cruiser 300.

Connected Service

All Toyota owners can sign up for a personal MyToyota profile. MyToyota is designed by Toyota SA to provide a platform for owners to quickly and conveniently access all information and services related to their vehicle(s). Additionally, all new Toyota vehicles are fitted with a device that opens up a whole new world of features. Simply opt in and you have access to in-car WiFi capability (with a complimentary 25Gb), along with a host of supplementary Connect services.

Toyota Hilux Raider Pricing

Extra Cab:

Hilux Raider 2.8 GD-6 RB 6AT

R587, 200

Hilux Raider 2.8 GD-6 4X4 6MT

R563, 200

Double Cab:

Hilux Raider 2.8 GD-6 4x4 6MT

R612, 100

Hilux Raider 2.8 GD-6 RB 6AT

R633, 200

Hilux Raider 2.8 GD-6 4x4 6MT

R684, 800

Hilux Raider 2.4 GD-6 4x4 6AT

R716, 300

Hilux Raider 2.8 GD-6 RB 6AT

R769, 900

Hilux Raider 2.8 GD-6 RB 6AT 48V

R785, 400

Hilux Raider 2.8 GD-6 4x4 6AT

R858, 600

Hilux Raider 2.8 GD-6 4x4 6AT 48V

R876, 600

- All Toyota Hilux Raider models come standard with 9-services/90 000km service plan and a 3-year/100 000km warranty. Customers can additionally purchase service/maintenance/warranty extensions via the comprehensive Toyota dealer network (220 outlets).