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2022 Toyota HiLux GR Sport coming very soon! Ford Ranger Raptor and Nissan Navara Warrior to be rattled by new beefed-up dual-cab ute: report

The first iteration of the HiLux GR Sport was sold in South America, but a second one is set to go global.

Toyota’s emerging GR performance sub-brand will reportedly go from strength to strength in October, with the best-selling HiLux 4x4 dual-cab ute set to get the GR Sport treatment on a global scale for the first time.

While not the full-fat GR HiLux many having been hanging out for (more on that later), the new HiLux GR Sport is no less a step in the sporty direction for the all-conquering dual-cab ute, one which will see it put pressure on the Ford Ranger Raptor and Nissan Navara Warrior.

According to a new Best Car Web report, the second iteration of the HiLux GR Sport will be introduced globally in “early October”, with this timing more or less matching last month’s claim from another Japanese publication, Creative 311.

So, what does the HiLux GR Sport have in store? Best Car Web says it will have “improved handling performance” over the regular HiLux thanks to its unique sports suspension, which will also deliver better off-roading as well as a stiffer but more comfortable on-road ride.

The front brake callipers are set for a bespoke upgrade, too, while the specific black 18-inch alloy wheels surrounding them will be wrapped in chunky tyres (265/60).

Styling-wise, the HiLux GR Sport will stand out from the HiLux crowd with its grille insert with ‘TOYOTA’ lettering, and more aggressive front bumper, including angry foglight bezels.

Then there will be the black side-mirror covers, tailgate handle and rear bumper, and the body-colour bonnet moulding and doorhandles. A shark-fin antenna will also feature.

Inside, the HiLux GR Sport will be fitted with power-adjustable front sports seats and a branded steering wheel with paddle-shifters. Speaking of ‘GR’ branding, it will also appear on the push-button start, while the gear selector, handbrake and pedals will be special items.

And if you haven’t guessed by now, the HiLux GR Sport isn’t expected to turn the wick up on the regular HiLux’s 2.8-litre single-turbo diesel four-cylinder engine, which had its outputs recently boosted to 150kW/500Nm.

Instead, buyers after more punch will have to wait for the GR HiLux, which is all but confirmed to be part of the next-generation HiLux range from 2023. It’s set to use the upcoming LandCruiser 300 Series upper-large SUV’s new 225kW/700Nm 3.3-litre twin-turbo diesel V6.