“It’s very powerful”: New suspension details on incoming Toyota HiLux revealed as race ace Fernando Alonso puts it to the off-road test

Toyota has kicked off the official teaser campaign for the new HiLux with a bang, unleashing race ace Fernando Alonso in the updated truck as we countdown the days to its official unveiling. 

And his report? “It’s very powerful”. Succinct, sure, but with a power boost to the HiLux’s 2.8-litre diesel engine that should put it about on par with the Ford Ranger, what else would you expect?

You can watch the full video here.

The HiLux, which will be officially unveiled on June 4, is fully camouflaged in the video, but given the US truck-inspired makeover has already been leaked, we largely know what to expect. 

Those images, which first appeared on the Miele Motors webiste, show bold, Tacoma-inspired front end, new grille and new LED headlights for top-spec models. The images also capture new 17- or 18-inch alloys, a blacked-out treatment for the grille, new DRLs and a new rear light cluster.

We also know that more power and better tech are coming, too, with Australia’s best-selling vehicle to score a power boost to around 150kW and 470Nm – or about 20kW and 20Nm more than the car it replaces. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto will also arrive for the first time.

But news from Toyota today confirms that won’t be the only under-the-skin change to expect, with revised suspension geometry also coming that, given its Alonso driving, should focus on dialling up the on-road enjoyment, or, in the words of Toyota “maintain its reputation for world-class quality, durability and reliability”.

“Hilux is an icon and I’ve always been a fan. It was good to test the new Hilux in a challenging environment and to push it to the limits,” Fernando says.

“The new engine behaves well and the new suspension feels great. Even when you push it, the comfort is still there.”

The HiLux – and the Fortuner – will be revealed on June 4, so watch this space.