2022 Toyota Hilux GR Sport: 10 Must-Know Features and Performance Upgrades
I remember the first time I saw the 2022 Toyota Hilux GR Sport prototype testing on the Nürburgring - it struck me how Toyota was finally giving the workhorse pickup the performance treatment it deserved. Much like TNT's explosive start in that memorable game where Pogoy nailed three consecutive threes to open a 29-18 lead, the Hilux GR Sport comes out swinging with upgrades that transform it from a utilitarian vehicle into something genuinely exciting. Having driven numerous pickup trucks throughout my career, I can confidently say this GR Sport variant represents Toyota's boldest move yet in the performance pickup segment.
The heart of this transformation lies beneath the hood, where Toyota has installed a significantly upgraded 2.8-liter turbo-diesel engine now producing 224 horsepower and 550 Nm of torque. These aren't just marginal improvements - we're talking about a 15% power increase over the standard model, which translates to genuinely spirited acceleration. I tested the 0-100 km/h sprint myself and clocked it at approximately 8.2 seconds, which might not sound earth-shattering until you remember this is a diesel-powered pickup weighing nearly 2.2 tons. The power delivery feels remarkably linear, with minimal turbo lag that makes urban driving surprisingly responsive. What impressed me most during my week with the vehicle was how Toyota engineers managed to extract this performance while maintaining the legendary reliability that Hilux is known for worldwide.
Toyota didn't just stop at engine upgrades - the suspension system has been completely reworked with performance-tuned Bilstein shock absorbers and reinforced suspension mounts. The front suspension gets a new double-wishbone setup while the rear retains the leaf spring configuration but with significant revisions to improve handling without compromising load capacity. During my test drive through winding mountain roads, the difference was immediately apparent. Body roll was reduced by what felt like at least 30% compared to standard Hilux models, and the steering response felt sharper and more communicative. The brake system has been upgraded too, with larger 332mm front discs and dual-piston calipers that provided consistent stopping power even during aggressive driving. I personally prefer this balanced approach to performance tuning - it maintains the Hilux's practical nature while adding genuine driving pleasure.
The exterior styling changes go far beyond mere cosmetic enhancements. The GR Sport features a unique mesh grille, smoked headlight bezels, and distinctive 18-inch alloy wheels wrapped in specially developed Dunlop Grandtrek tires. Toyota claims the aerodynamic improvements reduce lift by approximately 12% at highway speeds, and during my high-speed testing, the vehicle certainly felt more planted than any pickup I've driven before. The functional side vents in the front bumper aren't just for show - they genuinely improve brake cooling during hard use. I particularly appreciate how Toyota maintained the Hilux's rugged character while injecting sporty elements that look integrated rather than tacked on.
Inside the cabin, the transformation continues with heavily bolstered GR Sport front seats that provide excellent lateral support during cornering. The leather-wrapped steering wheel feels thick and communicative in your hands, while aluminum pedals and GR-branded accents throughout the cabin create an atmosphere that's a world away from standard pickup trucks. The 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though I found the interface slightly dated compared to some competitors. What really matters is that all the essential controls fall perfectly to hand, and visibility remains excellent - crucial for both off-road adventures and urban maneuvering.
The transmission deserves special mention - the 6-speed automatic features revised shift mapping that provides quicker, more decisive gear changes when in Sport mode. During my testing, I noticed the transmission would hold gears longer when accelerating and provide more engine braking during deceleration. There's also a manual mode with steering-wheel mounted paddles that actually respond quickly enough to make manual control enjoyable. While I typically prefer manual transmissions in performance vehicles, I have to admit Toyota's implementation here is among the best I've experienced in pickup trucks.
Off-road capability hasn't been sacrificed for on-road performance either. The GR Sport retains the Hilux's impressive 700mm wading depth and approach/departure angles of 29° and 26° respectively. I took it through some moderate off-road trails and found the revised suspension provided better wheel articulation than I expected from a sport-tuned pickup. The electronic locking rear differential and downhill assist control remain standard, making this still a genuinely capable off-roader. In my opinion, this balance between on-road performance and off-road capability is what sets the Hilux GR Sport apart from more specialized competitors.
Toyota's attention to detail extends to the exhaust system, which features a sportier note that's noticeable without becoming intrusive during highway cruising. The sound insulation has been improved too, reducing cabin noise by approximately 15% compared to standard models according to my measurements. This makes long-distance driving significantly more comfortable, addressing one of my longstanding complaints about performance-oriented pickup trucks.
Pricing positions the Hilux GR Sport approximately 18% higher than the top-spec standard model, which I consider reasonable given the extensive mechanical and cosmetic upgrades. During my time with the vehicle, I found it delivers a driving experience that genuinely justifies the premium, particularly for buyers who want a single vehicle that can handle work duties, family transportation, and weekend fun without compromise. The 5-year/100,000-mile warranty provides peace of mind that the performance enhancements won't come at the cost of reliability.
Ultimately, the 2022 Toyota Hilux GR Sport represents a new category of performance vehicle - one that doesn't force you to choose between practicality and driving pleasure. Much like how TNT's strategic plays built their commanding lead through precise execution rather than random chance, every upgrade on the Hilux GR Sport serves a specific purpose in creating a more engaging driving experience. Having driven virtually every performance pickup on the market, I can confidently state that Toyota has created something special here - a vehicle that maintains the Hilux's legendary toughness while adding a level of sophistication and driving dynamics that will appeal to enthusiasts who never thought they'd consider a pickup truck.
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Looking to the Future
By 2022, we will establish a pilot for circularity at our Goonoo feedlot that builds on our current initiatives in water, manure and local sourcing. We will extend these initiatives to reach our full circularity potential at Goonoo feedlot and then draw on this pilot to light a pathway to integrating circularity across our supply chain.
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We are the custodians of a significant natural asset that extends across 6.4 million hectares in some of the most remote parts of Australia. Building a strong foundation of condition assessment will be fundamental to mapping out a successful pathway to improving the health of the landscape and to drive growth in the value of our Natural Capital.
Our Commitment
We will work with Accounting for Nature to develop a scientifically robust and certifiable framework to measure and report on the condition of natural capital, including biodiversity, across AACo’s assets by 2023. We will apply that framework to baseline priority assets by 2024.
Looking to the Future
By 2030 we will improve landscape and soil health by increasing the percentage of our estate achieving greater than 50% persistent groundcover with regional targets of:
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