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The Toyota Hilux in PNG has been classified as a utility vehicle. And while that makes it sound like a pure workhorse car, what sets it apart from others is that it has a luxurious and modern design that many may not expect from a car that packs so much power.

'Utilities' or 'Utes' like the Hilux are a popular option for many people in PNG, especially in urban areas such as Port Moresby because of its strong build and range of features -- perfect for the rough terrains and less than ideal roads in the country. The Toyota Hilux is value for your money, durable, and reliable. It's a vehicle that will get the job done, whatever that may be.

Overview

1st and 2nd Generation (1968 to 1978):

Ironically, one of the top-selling cars of Toyota from this generation didn't start out under the Toyota branding. It was under the manufacturer Hino for their Briska line. Seeing how well the model did upon its release, Toyota then decided to do minor improvements towards the 2nd generation and continued to refer to it as a Briska under the Toyota lineup of cars. Given these cars are over 40 years, old you won't find many in the urban areas of PNG such as Prot Moresby, but there might be the odd few in the Highlands. 

3rd and 4th Generation (1978 to 1988):

Continuing its partnership with Hino, the third generation was officially renamed and launched in 1978 as the Toyota Hilux even though production was still being done at the Hino Motors’ Hamura Plant. This specific model carries chassis code of N10 and did well as a small pick-up, joining the ranks of the Masterline (Crown) and Corona. This generation of the Toyota Hilux started off with the short-wheelbase variant and had a 1.5-litre 4-cylinder petrol engine under the R-series. It also had a 4-speed gearboxe that drove the rear wheels manually. In as little time as a year, the range also grew with the inclusion of a long-wheelbased version. Along with this, the engine was upgraded to 1.6-litres for the base models.

The 4th generation is technically just the 2nd generation of the official Hilux series. It had an revamped body and extended wheelbases. This generation also begun the inclusion of the load-sensing brake proportioning valves and master cylinders that were dual brake and servo-assisted. A more powerful R-series 2.0L engine was also offered from 1974 onwards, along with an optional 3-speed gearbox, a first to be fitted in the Hilux. 

Again, these will be a rare site on Papua New Guinea roads, but given spares are widely avaiable there will be a few still around. 

5th and 6th Generation (1988 to 1995):

The 5th generation of the Toyota Hilux gave the most focus on versatility as it was made to offer comfort similar to that of a saloon without losing its durability. This meant improving the interior by having the extended cab 90mm longer. This generation of Hilux served to be both a passenger vehicle and a leisurely car. This was strengthened by the introduction of the first 4-wheel drive variant that included the drivetrain and transfer case for the gearbox that was originally from the Landcruiser custom-fitted for the new 2.0-litre petrol engine still under the R-series.

In 1983, Toyota launched the 6th generation Hilux which was differentiated from its predecessor through its fresh interior and blistered arches. Single-cab and double-cab variations were also made available. This included a raised-bed variant that had sides that were hinged from the bottom.

Rear-wheel drives from this generation had 1.6L or 1.8L petrol, and 4-wheel drive variants came with 2.0L petrol. And due to competition, Toyota decided to upgrade later units to larger engines such as the 3.0L V6 and 2.4L turbo petrol engines. 

7th and 8th Generation (2004 to 2015):

The 7th generation of the Toyota Hilux met several changes in terms of design and these are a very common car on Papua New Guinea Roads. This generation had aesthetics more similar to a normal sedan based car than its earlier versions. 4-wheel drive variants was reworked to have arch flares and a widened 40mm body. The rear-wheel drive variants, on the other hand, was narrower and had traditional front wings that were flat-sided.

The 8th generation brought about two distinctive uses for the Hilux, business and personal with model to match. Both two and 4-wheel drive with either a single or double-cab configurations became available during this time. 2.0L and 2.7L 4-cylinder petrol units were included at this time. Personal-focused vehicles gave importance to recreational needs and included features like better sound insulation. Business models, however, were more basic. A significant development in the 8th generation was the inclusion independent front suspension.

2017 Toyota Hilux Review - 8th Generation NG Series Re-Design

Toyota's 2017 Hilux marked a big step forward for the model with a major re-design designated as the 'NG Series'.

The redesign was overseen by Toyota styling guru Satura Oya and every part of the Hilux was re-worked. From brand new engines and transmissions (now in 6 speed guise), to a new chassis, exterior and interior styling. The 2017 model is a quantum over previous models and therefore these typically command a premium over prior model years. 

Engines - A little bit of Porsche in every Hilux!
Engines for 2017 were made smaller and more fuel efficient thanks to a move from 3.0 litre turbodiesels to smaller 2.4 and and 2.8 litre models.

Despite reduced engine capacity, the entire turbcharging system of the Hilux was improved to provide greater power, responsiveness and reduced fuel consumption. The biggest innovation was the introduction of a variable vane turbo (VVT) charger, this technology was actually first introduced on production cars in the Porsche 911 Turbo. A VVT turbo dynamically adjusts the fins on the turbine according to engine speed in order to reduce the pressure needed spool up the turbo and pump more fuel into the cylinders. This means the turbo operates in a wider rev range and dramatically increases responsiveness - effectively eliminating the 'turbo lag' associated with traditional fixed vane turbos.

For the top of the line SR5 Hilux with the 2.8 litre engine the new turbo technology (together with improved intercooler design) this equated to 130KW of peak power and 450NM of torque at between 1600 - 2400 RPM. A solid power output, with plenty of torque for towing. The smaller 2.4 litre unit sports 110KW of poweer at 3400 RPMm

The engine also featured a range of durability improvements to keep the ute running in even the harshet conditions. Of particular note for Papua New Guineans is a significantly improved cooling system with better optimised radiators, an essential given PNG's hot tropical climate. 

Transmissions - A move to 6 speed across the board
Both the manual and automatic transmissions in the 2017 Hilux sported 6 speeds, meaning brisk acceleration, an ability to stay within the power band and improved fuel economy.

Whilst the manual had peak power between 1600 - 2400 RPM, the automatic sported a slightly narrower peak power band, however this was addressed with intelligent gearbox functions that optimises engine revs to maintain then within the peak torque where possible. The automatic gearbox can also be set for either maximum fuel economy, acheived by always selecting the highest gear possible, or maximum responsiveness. A handy feature depending on whether you are highway cruising or using the Hilux for a job such as towing or 4 wheel driving.  


   

External - More modern and sleek
The wheelbase for the 2017 Hilux remained unchanged, however the body shell was increased substantially by 7 cm in length and 2 cm in width. The ute also shed 135 kilograms, despite additional body strengthenning (such as thicker body rails) making it more torsionally rigid and more under-car protection being added. From a practicality point of view, the ute tray size was increased, adding more capacity to carry larger loads.

Aesthetically, Hilux of 2017 looks more sleek and stylish, more similar to a car than the rugged workhorse that it truly is. The obligatory LED daytime running lights were added which, whilst modern and providing additional safety, may well date the Hilux in the long term.




Internal - More like a sedan than a workhourse ute
The revised interior design is reminscent of other Toyota models such as the Camry and Corolla, making the interior feel more like a normal sedan than the work vehicle it is. 

The interior is dominated by a large central touchsscreen which is responsive and allows the driver or passenger to control all of the Hilux's functions such as stereo, climate control and sat nav. The only downside of these screens is the lack of physical buttons which means a driver cannot typically use them without movign their eyes off the road to the screen because of a lack of tactile feedback. Thankfully Toyota offers steerign mounted controls for common functions such as volume up / down which alleviates this somewhat.

The driver and passenger seats are comfortable and supportive. The rear seats accomodate 3 passengers, have slightly more footroom (1 cm) and headroom for adults up to 190cm tall (6 foot 2 inches).   



Offroading ability and towing
The roads of PNG call for a vehicle with supreme offroading capacity; let's face it, even the best roads of the capital Port Moresby are often very poorly made and rough. In addition, for saftey against car jacking, it's important that any car in PNG can quicky transition from the pavement to the the footpath or roadside to escap trouble. Thankfully the 2017 Hilux was definitely better euipped than its forebears to deal with these situations. 

The NG Series sported about 5cm additional ground clearance and sligfhtl greater approach and departure angles than the prior generations. It can also wade through up to 70cm of water, making it a good choice for the Highlands which a prone to flooding. 

For serious offroading, the wheel travel was substantially increased and more under-body armour was added to protect the ute from rocks and branches. For the dedicated 4x4 models a  differential lock was also added as standard and this can be controll electronically from inside the cabin - this is a good safety fearture for PNG givne it can be dangerous to exit your car to lock the differentials. 

Towing capacity for the 2017 Hilux was 920 kg in the ute tray (known as 'payload capacity') and 3,200 kg using a braked trailer (known as 'braked capacity'). 

2017 Hilux Re-Design Conclusion
The re-design of the 2017 Hilux represented a major step for the model and this makes it a popular choice in the second hand market.

Whilst some of its features are arguably simply modernsing the ute to keep pace with competitors, overral it is a super high-quality ute which should be on the list for anybody lookign for a comfortable, strong and safe vehicle to traverse the streets of Port Moresby, right up to the rugged outback Highlands of PNG.   

2018 Toyota Hilux Review - 8th Generation SR+ and TRD Models 

The Hilux of 2018 will see two new models released, the SR+ and the TRD, both being light refeshes of the 2017 Hilux.

2018 Toyota Hilux SR+ 
The SR+ is a less luxurious version fo the SR5 model and includes some common options such as sat nav and alloys, together with a more practial vinyl floor.

This model is priced below the SR5 and represents a good option for those wanting practiality combined with basic options at a decent price. 


2018 Toyota Hilux TRD 
The Toyota Racing Development's (TRD) accesory package for the 2018 Hilux is only available on the top range SR5+ model and adds a swathe of luxury features.

External features comprise a raft of body additions to make the ute look more aggressive such as wheel flares, mudflaps, re-designed and towbar kit grille. On the interior new shift knob, floormats and and cargo liners make up some of the additional gear. 

The TRD is the ultimate Hilux for those who want style, as well as practicality and are prepared to pay for it. 
  

What to look for in a second hand Hilux & pricing in Papua New Guinea:

What to look for when buying second hand
Considering the Hilux is designed as a work vehicle with 4X4 credentials, it's important to check for any indication of excessive usage, wear or mistreatment. If it has been used off-road, you should check the under-body, suspension and paint condition for signs of rust as this can be very expensive to fix. Rust can be a major problem especially if the ute has been used in high flooding areas such as the highlands of PNG where flooding is common due to inefficient drainage. This rarely happens in Port Moresby, but should not be ruled out. 

Much like other vehicles, buyers should also check the interiors for any missing parts or if the electrical components are all working, such as the infotainment system, the heaters, speakers. Newer models with touchscreens should be carefully checked as replacing a full colour screen will be much more expensive than traditional buttons.  

In terms of specific items that are known to have problems, the following is a good checklist:

• - Models with the 3Y and 4Y petrol engines with airconditioning are known for the harmonic balancer coming loose and damaging the crankshaft
• - Diesels engines (pre-turbocharging) will wear rapidly if overrevved beyong 3,000
• - The axels are not as well engineered as serious offroaders like the Toyota Landcruiser, this can mean they are bent relatively easily, CV joints can wear rapidly and rear prop shafts with rubber bushing wear quickly.
• - Timing belts should be replaced regularly at between 80,000 - 100,000 kilometres 

Pricing Used and New

A new Toyota Hilux purchassed in the capital of Port Moresby is around PGK 100,000 
 
A used Hilux about 3 years old will cost around PGK 50,000 depending on the mileage, model and exact condition. 

Where to buy Toyota Hilux New & Used in PNG

Where to buy a used Toyota Hilux in PNG, Port Moresby and Lae:

Various places in PNG like Port Moresby offer the Toyota Hilux, but few of these sources are as convenient as scouting through Marketmeri website or swiping through the Marketmeri app which you can download here.

Where to buy a new Toyota Hilux  in PNG, Port Moresby and Lae:

Ela Motors distributes a variety of vehicle types and models and is the place where you can buy a brand new Toyota Hilux in Papua New Guinea and in Port Moresby.

You can read about the latest model of Hilux available here. 

Listed below are the phone numbers and addresses of their showrooms:

Ela Motors - Port Moresby (Badili Showroom) 
Scratchley Road Badili
Port Moresby NCD,
Papua New Guinea

T:(+675) 7998 7300
F:(+675) 7998 7400

Ela Motors - Port Moresby (Waigani Showroom)
Wards Road, Hohola
Port Moresby,
Papua New Guinea

T:(+675) 7998 7301
F:(+675) 7998 7302

Ela Motors - Lae
Milfordhaven Road
Lae, Morobe Province,
Papua New Guinea

T:(+675) 7998 7700
F:(+675) 7798 7701

Port Moresby - Kokopo
Schamach Street, Takubar
Kokopo, East New Britain Province,
Papua New Guinea

T:(+675) 7998 8200
F:(+675) 7998 8201
 
Port Moresby - Madang
Kasagten Road
Madang, Papua New Guinea

T:(+675) 7998 7850
F:(+675) 7998 7851

Port Moresby - Mt Hagen
Okuk Highway Kimininga
Mt.Hagen, Western Highlands Provinces,
Papua New Guinea

T:(+675) 7998 7800
F:(+675) 7998 7801 Email us 

Port Moresby - Kimbe
Sanrimo Drive
Kimbe, West New Britain Province,
Papua New Guinea

T:(+675) 7998 8300
F:(+675) 7998 8301
 
Port Moresby - Lihir
Lower Londolovit Road
Lihir, New Ireland Province,
Papua New Guinea

T:(+675) 7998 8400
F:(+675) 7998 8401

Port Moresby - Buka
Buka Town
Buka, Autonomous Region of Bougainville,
Papua New Guinea

T:(+675) 7998 8600
F:(+675) 7998 8601

Port Moresby - Goroka
Edwards Street
Goroka, Eastern Highland Province,
Papua New Guinea

T:(+675) 7998 8270
F:(+675) 7998 8271
 
Port Moresby - Kavieng
Lavongai Street
Kavieng, New Ireland Province,
Papua New Guinea

T:+675) 7999 5800
F:(+675) 7999 5801
 
Port Moresby - Wewak
Boram Road
Wewak, East Sepik Province,
Papua New Guinea

T:(+675) 7998 8230
F:(+675) 7998 8231 

Port Moresby - Vanimo
Yakwan Street
Vanimo, West Sepik Province,
Papua New Guinea

T:(+675) 7998 8500
F:(+675) 7998 8501
 
Port Moresby - Tabubil
Ganamop Street
Tabubil, Western Province,
Papua New Guinea

T:(+675) 7998 8340
F:(+675) 7998 8341
 
Port Moresby - Alotau 
Charles Able Highway
Alotau, Milne Bay Province,
Papua New Guinea

T:(+675) 7998 8320
F:(+675) 7998 8321