Toyota New Zealand will be offering a
tougher-looking HiLux SR5 Cruiser. The new SR5 Cruiser, which looks very similar to
the Thailand-bound HiLux Rocco, runs with a new grille and front bumper,
complete with a neatly-integrated skid-plate at the front.
As with the Thai-market car, the new look appears to
be inspired by the Tacoma, with vertical fog-lights and a more pronounced air
intake on the lower bumper. It rides on gloss-black 18-inch alloy wheels, too,
and gets unique graphics on the front doors, but the aggressive three-quarter
sail-panel from the Thai car hasn’t carried over. Toyota NZ is offering the car
in a range of seven colours, ranging from subdued silver to an eye-catching
orange. The driver and passenger are treated to heated seats inside, with
electric adjustment for the driver.
A choice of 4WD or PreRunner (high-riding, two-wheel
drive) is available, with no word on what will power the car. Given the rest of
the range makes use of the same 2.8-litre diesel engine, making 177 Hp of power
and 450 Nm of torque, we’re banking on the same showing up in the SR5 Cruiser.
The SR5 Cruiser, with its stylish new nose and more
luxurious cabin, looks like an attempt to steal sales from the Wildtrak and
FX4.
