Tag: Toyota Hilux Revo

Toyota vs Ford vs VW - Brand New Pickup

Toyota vs Ford vs VW | Ultimate Brand New Pickup Truck Test

Posted on | by SMM

The Toyota Hilux GR Sport, Ford Ranger Raptor, and Volkswagen Amarok Panamericana are some of the most capable pickup trucks in Uganda today. While all three trucks excel in different areas, the real question is which one comes out on top when put through a rigorous series of tests? In this ultimate pickup truck showdown, we dive deep into their engines, performance, pricing, off-road capabilities, and overall practicality to help you decide which truck is best for you.

Engine and Performance Comparison

When it comes to engines, each of these trucks brings its own flavor of power and torque.

  • Toyota Hilux GR Sport is equipped with a 2.8L four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine that churns out 204 horsepower and 500 Nm of torque. It’s paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, offering decent performance for most work and off-road needs.
  • Ford Ranger Raptor features a much larger 3.0L twin-turbo V6 petrol engine, delivering 292 horsepower and an impressive 583 Nm of torque. It also offers a 10-speed automatic transmission, making it a high-performance truck designed for both work and play.
  • Volkswagen Amarok Panamericana is powered by a 3.0L V6 turbo-diesel engine producing 240 horsepower and 600 Nm of torque. Like the Ford, it uses a 10-speed automatic gearbox to put the power down across all four wheels, ensuring ample torque for off-road adventures.

Drag Race Test: Uphill Challenge

The first test of the day was an uphill drag race. Starting with the Toyota Hilux and Ford Ranger Raptor, the Raptor’s larger engine gave it a clear edge, winning the first round easily.

Next, the Volkswagen Amarok squared off against the Raptor. Despite the Amarok’s impressive torque, it couldn’t keep pace with the Ford Ranger Raptor, which emerged victorious once again, thanks to its powerful twin-turbo V6 and robust off-road setup.

Toyota vs Ford vs VW - Brand New Pickup

Price Comparison

Here’s how the trucks are priced:

  • The Toyota Hilux GR Sport starts at $43,500.
  • The Volkswagen Amarok Panamericana starts at $78,990.
  • The Ford Ranger Raptor, being the most performance-oriented of the three, is priced at $48,900

For buyers looking for pickup trucks for sale in Uganda and Kenya, the price difference between the Hilux, Amarok, and Ranger Raptor could be a decisive factor.

Exterior Design

  • Toyota Hilux GR Sport: The Hilux carries a rugged and functional exterior, perfect for both urban driving and off-road. However, its design doesn’t scream performance, except for a few GR Sport badges.
  • Ford Ranger Raptor: The Raptor looks every bit the part of a performance pickup, with a wide stance, aggressive grille, and flared fenders. It’s designed for those who want a truck that can make a statement on the road.
  • Volkswagen Amarok Panamericana: The Amarok leans more towards SUV-like refinement, blending premium looks with a truck’s practicality. Its sleek design may appeal to those who want a blend of luxury and capability.

Interior Design and Comfort

Inside, these trucks offer varying levels of luxury and sportiness.

  • Ford Ranger Raptor: Inside the Ranger Raptor, you’ll find sporty seats, a digital display, and an infotainment system that is easy to use. It also has physical buttons for key controls, enhancing its functionality during off-road trips.
  • Volkswagen Amarok Panamericana: The Amarok’s interior feels more luxurious, with upscale materials and a dashboard that’s more reminiscent of an SUV than a truck. While it lacks the paddle shifters found in the Raptor, its infotainment system and digital features provide a more refined experience.
  • Toyota Hilux GR Sport: The Hilux has a much simpler, utilitarian interior. While the GR Sport trim adds some sporty touches, it feels more functional than luxurious compared to the Raptor and Amarok.

Off-road Capability Test

When it comes to off-road capability, all three trucks offer four-wheel drive and plenty of ground clearance, but with some key differences:

  • The Ford Ranger Raptor features Fox coilovers, front and rear differentials, and Baja mode, making it the most capable off-roader of the group.
  • The Volkswagen Amarok has selectable rear locking differentials and a four-wheel-drive low setting but lacks the front diff-lock found in the Raptor, making it slightly less suited for extreme off-roading.
  • The Toyota Hilux GR Sport is equipped with a rear diff lock and a high/low range gearbox, but its leaf spring rear suspension doesn’t provide the same smooth off-road handling as the coil springs in the Raptor.

Payload and Practicality

In terms of payload, the Ford Ranger Raptor falls short due to its performance suspension, which limits its ability to carry heavy loads compared to the Toyota Hilux and Volkswagen Amarok. However, the Raptor’s rear coil springs make it much more comfortable when driving over rough terrain.

Acceleration and Launch Test

We put each truck through a 0-60 mph acceleration test:

  • Toyota Hilux GR Sport: It completed the sprint in 10.7 seconds, as expected.
  • Volkswagen Amarok Panamericana: The Amarok was faster, completing the test in 8.9 seconds.
  • Ford Ranger Raptor: The Raptor came out on top with a 7.7-second sprint, showcasing its superior acceleration thanks to its powerful twin-turbo V6.

Toyota Revo & Ford Raptor To Buy In Uganda

All three of these trucks performed effectively in the test and good news! Toyota Revo GR 2024 and Ford Ranger Raptor pickup are available to buy.

2024 Toyota Hilux Revo GR Brand New 4WD 2.8

The Toyota Hilux Revo GR 2024 is one of the most exciting and rugged pickup trucks available on the market. With its 2.8-liter 4-cylinder turbo-diesel engine, it delivers a power-packed 204 horsepower and 500 Nm of torque. This makes it a versatile and powerful vehicle, perfect for both urban and off-road driving conditions in Uganda.

The Toyota Hilux Pickup in Uganda is highly popular due to its low maintenance cost, durability, and a long-standing reputation for handling even the harshest conditions

2024 Ford Raptor Brand New 2.0 4WD AT

The 2024 Ford Raptor is a beast in its own right. Powered by a 2.0-liter twin-turbo engine, this pickup truck produces an impressive amount of horsepower, allowing it to accelerate swiftly while maintaining excellent off-road capabilities. With 4WD and a rugged suspension system, the Raptor can tackle anything from rough terrains to smooth highways without breaking a sweat.

For those in Uganda looking to invest in a brand new Ford Raptor, this 2024 model is the epitome of power, style, and performance. Whether for work, off-roading, or cruising in urban settings, the Ford Raptor guarantees a thrilling driving experience while maintaining practicality and durability, making it a top choice for pickup truck enthusiasts.

Conclusion

At the end of this comprehensive test, the Ford Ranger Raptor emerged as the overall winner, dominating in almost every category, from off-road performance to 0-60 mph acceleration. The Volkswagen Amarok followed closely behind, impressing with its premium interior and strong performance. The Toyota Hilux Revo GR 2024, while reliable and functional, lagged behind in terms of modern features and performance but remains an excellent choice for those looking for durability.

For buyers in Kenya and Uganda, the Ford Ranger Raptor is the ultimate choice if you want a high-performance truck that can do it all.

Toyota Hilux

Toyota Hilux Generations RANKED | Good-to-Best

Posted on | by SMM | Leave a Comment on Toyota Hilux Generations RANKED | Good-to-Best

The Toyota Hilux pickup in Kenya has also earned a global reputation for being one of the most rigid, most reliable pickup trucks ever built. Since its introduction in 1968, the Hilux has undergone significant changes across its generations, consistently improving in performance, design, and reliability. Whether you’re driving on rough terrains in Kenya or hauling heavy loads, the Hilux has proven time and again that it is a leader in the pickup market.

In this blog, we’ll take you through every Hilux generation and rank them from good to best based on their overall impact, improvements, and long-lasting performance.

8. First Generation (1968-1972)

The first-generation Hilux (RN10) marked the beginning of Toyota’s journey into the world of pickup trucks. Although basic by today’s standards, it was revolutionary for its time, offering a 1.5-liter engine that generated 76 hp, along with a rear-wheel-drive system. This first model laid the foundation for the Hilux’s legendary reliability and durability. However, compared to its successors, the early Hilux lacked power and comfort, placing it lower on this list.

Despite its lower rank, the first-gen Toyota Hilux pickup truck in Kenya remains a collector’s favorite and symbolizes the dawn of one of the most reliable pickup trucks in history.

7. Sixth Generation (1997-2004)

The sixth-generation Hilux made notable strides in improving comfort and drivability, distinguishing itself with two distinct lines: one for commercial use and the other for personal or leisure purposes. While the sixth generation didn’t introduce any groundbreaking technological advances, it did offer increased interior space, making it more user-friendly for daily driving.

This period saw the introduction of the Toyota Hilux Prerunner, a precursor to the more modern versions that balance utility with convenience. Although the enhancements were minor, the focus on comfort marked a turning point, but it still ranks lower due to the lack of significant upgrades to the engine and overall design.

6. Third Generation (1978-1983)

The third-generation Hilux (N30/N40) is notable for being the first to offer a 4-wheel drive variant, making it a popular choice among off-road enthusiasts. This model cemented the Hilux’s reputation for reliability and durability, often being likened to a “workhorse” due to its rugged construction.

While it may not have offered much in the way of modern amenities, it was an indestructible tool for those who needed a tough, dependable vehicle. Even today, you can still find third-gen used pickup trucks operational in some regions of Africa, a testament to their build quality. However, the lack of comfort and refinement keeps it from climbing higher in our rankings.

5. Second Generation (1972-1978)

The second-generation Hilux pickup trucks in Kenya took a significant leap from its predecessor. Known as the N20 model, it featured an upgraded design, improved cab space, and new engine options, including the reliable 2-liter 18R engine. This generation is where the Hilux really began to shine, showcasing a balance between utility and comfort.

For the first time, the Toyota Hilux pickup in Kenya added more emphasis on the driver’s comfort, expanding the cab size and making the truck more practical for personal use.

This generation marked the beginning of the Hilux’s transformation from a purely work-oriented vehicle to a versatile, multi-use pickup. Its advancements in comfort and reliability set the stage for future generations.

4. Fourth Generation (1983-1988)

The fourth-generation Hilux is widely recognized as one of the toughest used pickup trucks ever made. Its most famous moment came when the N50 Hilux was put through extreme endurance tests on the British TV show Top Gear, where it survived being set on fire, dropped from a height, and even left atop a building that was demolished. After all that, the engine still started!

This model’s durability cemented its legendary status, making it highly sought-after, especially among off-road enthusiasts. Although it lacked the comfort features of later generations, its toughness and iconic status give it a well-deserved place in the top half of this list.

3. Seventh Generation (2004-2015)

The seventh-generation Hilux was a game-changer, offering a much larger and more comfortable design. This generation was part of Toyota’s Innovative International Multi-Purpose Vehicle (IMV) project, which sought to streamline global production.

The used Hilux pickup truck of this era provided a range of engine options, including a powerful 4.0-liter V6 and 3.0-liter diesel, making it ideal for both work and leisure.

This model gained global acclaim when a modified version was driven to the North Pole on Top Gear and later used to climb an active volcano. The versatility and toughness of the seventh generation, coupled with modern comforts, make it one of the best Toyota Hilux pickup models ever produced.

2. Eighth Generation (2015-Present)

The eighth generation Hilux, which includes the Toyota Hilux Revo 2024, represents the most modern iteration of the truck. Toyota focuses heavily on driver comfort and safety in this generation, upgrading the visibility of interior space and adding new technologies to make driving easier and safer.

With larger dimensions and more luxurious features, this generation has set new benchmarks for pickup trucks. It also offers advanced 4×4 systems, making it a top choice for off-road enthusiasts.

The Toyota Hilux 2WD and 4WD options ensure that the truck appeals to both urban and rural users. Its balance between toughness and modern luxury has won numerous accolades, including the prestigious International Pickup Award.

1. Fifth Generation (1988-1997)

Topping our list is the fifth-generation Hilux. This model, which includes the N80, N90, N100, and N110, perfectly embodies what a pickup truck should be. It wasn’t the most luxurious nor the most powerful, but its sheer indestructibility and reliability make it the pinnacle of the Toyota Hilux pickup truck lineup.

The fifth-generation Hilux became a global icon, particularly in harsh environments like Kenya, where the truck’s durability and ability to handle rough terrains made it a top choice. This model could handle heavy loads on difficult terrains and still remain easy to maintain, making it an ideal pickup for a variety of users, from construction workers to off-road adventurers. Even today, the fifth-gen Hilux is highly regarded and sought after for its legendary durability.

Conclusion

From its humble beginnings to the modern-day powerhouse that is the Toyota Hilux Revo 2024, the Hilux has remained one of the most dependable and versatile pickup trucks in Kenya. Each generation has brought improvements, whether in performance, comfort, or off-road capabilities. However, the fifth generation remains the benchmark for what a pickup should be: rugged, reliable, and ready for anything.

No matter which generation you choose, the Toyota Hilux pickup in Kenya remains an unbeatable choice for anyone seeking a durable, high-performance truck. Whether you need a Toyota Hilux Prerunner for urban driving or the latest Toyota Hilux Revo for off-road adventures, each generation has something to offer.

Toyota Hilux Vigo Vs Toyota Hilux Revo

Toyota Hilux Vigo Vs Toyota Hilux Revo | What Has Changed? | Detailed Comparison

Posted on | by Admin | Leave a Comment on Toyota Hilux Vigo Vs Toyota Hilux Revo | What Has Changed? | Detailed Comparison

Toyota Hilux has been the most versatile and the most demanded pickup truck in Kenya for decades now, whether it’s the 1980s yet robust “Toyota Hilux Pickup” or the “Revolution”, both of the raging minotaurs are known for their immaculate off-roading capabilities.

However, the undying combat of the 7th generation’s popular Toyota Hilux Vigo and 8th Generation Revo is the most discussed topic in Kenya and many parts of Africa.

In this blog, we’ll take you on the ride and explore the differentiations between the old school and new school pickup trucks in Kenya and determine what has changed.

Overview of Both the Pickups in Kenya

Before delving deep into both the vehicles, let’s take an overview of both the trucks. The 7th generation Toyota Vigo was first assembled and launched in 2004—making an impact in various parts of Africa and overseas. The 2004 model was known for its durability and its prowess in grasping rough roads with ease.  Additionally, it was launched in 54 variants including single cab, dual cab, and extra cab.

On the other hand, the 8th generation model was launched simultaneously in Sydney, Australia, and Bangkok, Thailand. The model featured a keen look and design with slimmer headlights and contributed more power.

Specifics About Toyota Hilux Vigo

Toyota Hilux Vigo—the most craved vehicle for pickup enthusiasts in Africa for various reasons. Firstly, Toyota Vigo boasts a spectacular grip on rough terrains of African cities coupled with its significant durability to fend off hot African climates.

Let’s dive into the specifics and features of Toyota Vigo in Nairobi:

Engine

Toyota Vigo is equipped with a 2.5-liter 16-valve VVTI inline diesel engine—a standard engine that ranges across many variants of Toyota Vigo. Plus, the engine is tested to produce the robust 101 horsepower when reaches 3600 RPM.

Design

Despite the amazing demonstration of the exterior, Toyota Vigo is also considered a larger variant than its predecessors, it has also been eye-catching and beneficial for those who consistently drive around the rough terrains of Kenya.

Exterior

As mentioned above, the exterior of Toyota Vigo has a simplicity that many during those times loved the display.

  • Front: Toyota Vigo boasts a grille design along with classical halogen headlamps. Plus, the front bumper is measured as the most unique from its ancestors. Moreover, the hood of this pickup in Kenya is wide, plus the TRD variants showcase more of a sportier appearance due to the exceptional black matte front grille.
  • Side: The doors of Toyota Hilux Vigo are crafted with chrome while Vigo V, Vigo G, and Vigo GX models are featured with body-colored door handles—However, you can easily get the chrome-designed handles installed from any local automobile market in Kenya.
  • Additionally, the side mirrors lack the indicators but were incorporated in the TRD variants. If we take a close look at the sportier version of the pickup, it was dynamically launched with diverse features that weren’t available for Vigo V, Vigo G, and Vigo Gx, to exemplify: different side badges and a sportier side step.
  • Rear: Despite the simple appearance, the rear end of the vehicle is true and aggressive craftmanship as compared to its front. The bumper is incorporated with tail lamps along with a manual tailgate, whilst the TRD models feature a chrome layer around the tail lamps and the tailgate opener.

Interior

Toyota Vigo’s interior boasts simplicity and elegance that many individuals find similar to the Toyota Corolla 2006. The leather seats are tailored in beige color while demonstrating an array of color options for the seats in the TRD variants. Whilst, the fabric seats are recognized as the standard feature in this pickup truck in Mombasa.

Moreover, the entire family of Vigo boasts manual air conditioning systems with a knob design. Plus, the comfortable seats can be manually adjusted and boast enough headroom.

However, rear passengers can encounter minor discomfort due to the compromised leg space. To conclude, the vehicle is equipped with simple features with no other specializations other than its off-roading capabilities. The vehicle is a clear example of simplicity but can get the job done right.

Fuel Tank Capacity

The raging minotaur’s fuel tank capacity varies on the make model variants:

  •  Toyota Hilux Vigo Champ: The fuel tank capacity is measured to be 76 liters.
  • Toyota Hilux Vigo 2005-2011: A long-range fuel tank with a capacity of 145 liters is available.
  • Toyota Hilux Vigo 2005-2015: An auxiliary fuel tank with a capacity of 88 liters is available. This tank is designed to be fitted in addition to the original factory fuel tank.
  • Toyota Hilux Vigo 2005-2016: A long-range fuel tank with a capacity of 65 liters is available. This tank is made from stainless steel and can store both petrol and diesel.
  • Toyota Hilux Series 7 Vigo 2005- An additional fuel tank with a capacity of 160 liters is available. This tank is made from steel and is for diesel only.

Towing Capacity

The Toyota Vigo in Kenya offers a robust braked towing capacity of 3,500 kilograms, plus, the maximum weight the pickup can effectively carry without a trailer brake is about 750 kilograms.

Safety Features

Toyota Vigo boasts two airbags—a dime-a-dozen safety feature that goes across every model. However, the pickup in Kenya lacks EBD, VSA, and traction control. Plus, the TRD variant showcases cruise control only.

Delving Deep into Toyota Revolution

Hence the name—Revolution, this 8th generation pickup model is an absolute beast and has been recognized as the most popular and most loved Revolution pickup truck in Kenya, the robust demonstration of new features, as reported by Toyota Revolution (Revo) is a dynamic piece of machinery with great off-road capabilities by far.  Read the significant features in detail below:

Engine

The Toyota Revo for sale in Kenya comes with an upgraded engine compared to its predecessor, the Hilux Vigo. The Revo features a 2.8-liter GD-6 turbocharged diesel engine, which significantly outperforms the Vigo’s 2.5-liter engine. This new engine can produce up to 174 horsepower at 3,400 RPM, making it a formidable pickup truck in Kenya for both off-road adventures and urban commutes.

Design

The Toyota Hilux Revo showcases a more modern and aggressive design compared to the Vigo. With sleeker headlights, a bolder front grille, and a more aerodynamic body, the Revo is designed to make a statement on the roads. Its exterior not only enhances the truck’s aesthetics but also improves fuel efficiency and overall performance, making it a popular pickup truck in Nairobi and other cities.

Interior

The interior of the Toyota Pickup for sale in Nairobi is where the Revo truly shines. It offers a more luxurious and tech-savvy environment compared to the Vigo. With features like a touchscreen infotainment system, automatic climate control, and higher-quality materials, the Revo’s interior is designed for both comfort and convenience. Additionally, the Revo provides more legroom and storage options, making it a superior choice for those looking for an imported pickup in Kenya with modern amenities.

Exterior

When comparing the exterior of the Toyota Vigo in Kenya and the Revo, the latter stands out with its futuristic design. The Revo features LED headlights and taillights, which not only improve visibility but also add a touch of sophistication. The truck’s robust frame and stylish alloy wheels further enhance its road presence, making it a preferred pickup truck in Mombasa and other major Kenyan cities.

Safety Features

The Toyota Hilux Revo is equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, ensuring the well-being of both the driver and passengers. Here’s a closer look at some of the key safety elements:

  • Immobilizer with Security Alarm: The Revo comes with an advanced immobilizer system paired with a security alarm to protect against theft, a crucial feature for those investing in a Toyota Pickup for sale in Kenya.
  • Drive Start Control: This feature prevents accidental acceleration, adding an extra layer of safety during start-up, particularly in congested areas like Nairobi.
  • Vehicle Stability Control: Revo’s Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) system helps maintain stability during sharp turns or on slippery surfaces, making it a reliable pickup truck in Nairobi.
  • 3-Point ELR Front Seatbelts: These seatbelts offer optimal restraint and comfort, ensuring safety in the event of a collision.
  • SRS Front Driver & Passenger Airbags: Standard in the Revo, these airbags provide essential protection for both the driver and the front passenger.
  • SRS Driver Knee Airbag: Additional protection for the driver’s knees in case of a frontal collision.
  • Rear ISOFIX Child Seat Fixture: A critical feature for families, the ISOFIX fixture ensures that child seats are securely attached, providing peace of mind when traveling with children.

Towing Capacity

The Toyota Revo for sale in Kenya comes with a towing capacity that rivals the best in its class. The Revo can tow up to 3,500 kilograms when braked, making it ideal for hauling heavy loads. This capability, combined with its advanced safety features and robust engine, makes the Revo a top choice for those looking for a dependable Toyota Pickup for sale in Mombasa or other parts of the country.

What Has Changed?

Needless to say, the Toyota Hilux Vigo was the premiere and latest machinery of its time—however, 10 years later, the Toyota Revo made an entry into the market with a spectacular demonstration of features, including exceptional new safety structures and aptitude for the off-road capabilities. So, surely Toyota Revo is a wise choice for driving on the rough terrains of Kenyan cities.

Top 3 Dominant Motoring Toyota Pickups in Kenya

No matter which Toyota machinery you select as your next pickup truck in Kenya, Toya Hilux will remain the best vehicle. Dominant Motoring has stocked diverse models of Toyota Hilux Pickup trucks that won’t break the bank and will be a top-notch vehicle for your utilization.

2023 Toyota Hilux Revo Rocco Double Cab

Unleash your inner pickup enthusiasm and cruise on the roads of Nairobi in our black beauty of Toyota Revo. Coming at $24,800, This 2-wheel-drive piece of immaculate machinery is designed for those who prefer something modern yet robust that handles rough terrains like a pro. Launched in 2023, the Toyota Revo Rocco has been driven only 4,307 Kilometers and boasts a smooth grip on the road that every driver direly needs. Book this artful escape now at Dominant Motoring.

2023 Toyota Hilux Revo Rocco Double Cab

Toyota Hilux Revo 4WD 2.8

Cruise on the road a lot but it doesn’t matter when the vehicle’s condition is spotless! This diesel-powered 2800cc Toyota Hilux Revo is showcased at $23,500 only, with workable safety features and DVD navigations with enough capability to help you ride on the rough roads like a boss! This Toyota Revo in Nairobi has driven 84,000 kilometers and waiting to be driven more, get this beast now only at Dominant Motoring with an easy booking method.

2018 Toyota Hilux Revo 4wd 2.8

2014 Toyota Hilux Vigo Smart Cab 2.7 4WD

It’s rugged, it’s powerful, it’s Vigo! The 2014 Toyota Vigo for sale in Kenya demonstrates efficient off-roading abilities that may be hard to find in any other average pickup in Kenya. With its prowess to go  7000 RPMs with a proven track record of smooth driving on the road since its launch—the Toyota Vigo 2014 is perfect for those who seek to keep their work processes aligned at no extra expense! Explore this Pickup truck for sale in Nairobi more and book now.

2014 TOYOTA HILUX VIGO SMART CAB 2.7 4WD AT

Conclusion

Toyota Hilux went on a serious makeover with its launch of Revo lines. However, both the old and new schools are some of the top-rated pickup trucks in Kenya that are waiting to be driven on the rough and smooth roads of African cities. With immaculate demonstration of safety features and specifics, both the vehicles are keen choices for the drivers.