The Toyota Hilux Pick Up 4.0 V6 VVT-i, produced between 2004 and 2008, represents a significant iteration of Toyota’s globally renowned Hilux line. While the Hilux has a long and storied history dating back to 1968, this particular generation, often referred to as the sixth generation in some markets, was primarily aimed at markets outside of North America. The Hilux is not traditionally sold in the United States, but enjoys immense popularity in regions like Australia, Europe, Asia, Africa, and South America, where its reputation for reliability and ruggedness is legendary. This model specifically offered a more powerful engine option – a 4.0-liter V6 – catering to buyers needing increased capability for work or recreational purposes. It occupies the mid-size pickup truck segment, competing with vehicles like the Nissan Navara and Mitsubishi L200 in its target markets.
Toyota Hilux Pick Up 4.0 V6 VVT-i: A Detailed Overview
The Hilux Pick Up 4.0 V6 VVT-i was designed to provide a balance between on-road comfort and off-road capability. It served as a versatile vehicle for both commercial and personal use, appealing to farmers, tradespeople, and outdoor enthusiasts. The introduction of the V6 engine was a key differentiator, offering a substantial power upgrade over the traditionally offered four-cylinder engines. This allowed for improved towing capacity and a more refined driving experience, particularly when carrying heavy loads or navigating challenging terrain. The VVT-i (Variable Valve Timing-intelligent) technology further enhanced the engine’s efficiency and responsiveness.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Hilux Pick Up 4.0 V6 VVT-i is the 1GR-FE engine, a 3.955-liter (241.35 cubic inches) naturally aspirated V6. This engine produces 245 horsepower at 5200 rpm and 382 Nm (281.75 lb-ft) of torque at 3800 rpm. The power-to-liter ratio is a respectable 61.9 hp/l. The engine’s longitudinal front-engine layout contributes to a balanced weight distribution, enhancing handling characteristics. The 1GR-FE is known for its durability and relatively simple design, contributing to the Hilux’s overall reputation for reliability. The engine utilizes a multi-port manifold fuel injection system, ensuring efficient fuel delivery. The engine requires 5.2 liters (5.49 US quarts or 4.58 UK quarts) of engine oil and 9.8 liters (10.36 US quarts or 8.62 UK quarts) of coolant for optimal operation. The Hilux’s powertrain, while not focused on outright speed, prioritizes robust performance and longevity, making it well-suited for demanding applications.
Design & Features
The Toyota Hilux Pick Up 4.0 V6 VVT-i is a four-door pickup truck with a seating capacity of five passengers. Its body-on-frame construction provides a solid foundation for both on-road and off-road driving. The design is functional and utilitarian, prioritizing practicality over extravagant styling. The exterior features a relatively simple, yet robust aesthetic, typical of pickup trucks designed for work. Interior features, while not luxurious, were designed for durability and ease of use. Safety features for this era typically included anti-lock brakes (ABS) and, depending on the specific market and trim level, airbags. The Hilux’s large fuel tank capacity of 87 liters (22.98 US gallons or 19.14 UK gallons) provides a substantial driving range, important for those operating in remote areas. The Hilux’s dimensions – a length of 5130 mm (201.97 inches), a width of 1760 mm (69.29 inches), and a height of 1680 mm (66.14 inches) – provide a practical cargo bed size and overall vehicle footprint. The wheelbase measures 3085 mm (121.46 inches) and the front track is 1510 mm (59.45 inches).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Toyota |
| Model | Hilux |
| Generation | Hilux Pick Up |
| Type (Engine) | 4.0 V6 VVT-i (245 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2004 |
| End of production | 2008 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Power | 245 Hp @ 5200 rpm |
| Power per litre | 61.9 Hp/l |
| Torque | 382 Nm @ 3800 rpm / 281.75 lb.-ft. @ 3800 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | 1GR-FE |
| Engine displacement | 3955 cm3 / 241.35 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 94 mm / 3.7 in |
| Piston Stroke | 95 mm / 3.74 in |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.2 l / 5.49 US qt | 4.58 UK qt |
| Coolant | 9.8 l / 10.36 US qt | 8.62 UK qt |
| Fuel tank capacity | 87 l / 22.98 US gal | 19.14 UK gal |
| Length | 5130 mm / 201.97 in |
| Width | 1760 mm / 69.29 in |
| Height | 1680 mm / 66.14 in |
| Wheelbase | 3085 mm / 121.46 in |
| Front track | 1510 mm / 59.45 in |
The Toyota Hilux Pick Up 4.0 V6 VVT-i remains a popular choice in many international markets, often found as a used vehicle offering a compelling combination of reliability, capability, and affordability. Its enduring appeal is a testament to Toyota’s engineering prowess and the Hilux’s reputation as a truly tough and dependable workhorse.
