Toyota has revealed a new V6-powered version of its Hilux pick-up truck that will go on sale in Latin American markets like Brazil, Argentina and Uruguay in early 2020. Dubbed Hilux V6 GR Sport, Toyota has aimed the model squarely at the V6 Ford Ranger Raptor.

Being a Gazoo Racing model, the Hilux GR Sport looks more aggressive than the standard Hilux, featuring a blacked-out front grille with large ‘Toyota’ lettering and a gloss-black bonnet, roof and ORVMs. It can be had in the three Gazoo Racing colours – Black, White and Red. The decals it sports on the side are also in the Gazoo Racing colours; and it has dual-tone alloys and ‘GR’ badging on the front grille and tailgate. The interior gets an all-black theme too, with contrasting red stitching and ‘GR’ logos on the headrests and the centre console.

The new V6 engine is a 4.0-litre unit that produces 234hp and 375Nm of torque and is coupled with a 6-speed automatic gearbox and four-wheel drive. Earlier, the GR Sport was available with a solitary 2.8-litre turbo-diesel engine which puts out 177hp and 450Nm of torque.   

The Hilux V6 GR Sport gets features like a 7.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system, push-button start/stop, LED headlights with DRLs, cruise control, and two driving modes. Standard safety kit includes seven airbags, ABS with EBD, ESC, traction control, hill-start assist and hill-descent assist. 

The Toyota Hilux is based on the same platform that underpins the Fortuner SUV. In international markets, the Toyota Hilux competes with other pick-ups like the Volkswagen Amarok and Ford Ranger.

Closer to home, the Japanese carmaker gears up for the launch of the Vellfire MPV and is co-developing a Creta-rivalling SUV with Maruti Suzuki.