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Toyota has just unveiled a game-changing upgrade to its HiLux ute, which puts the Ford Ranger Super Duty in its sights.
A factory-fitted GVM upgrade priced from $4000 will now be available on some HiLux models.
It will boost payload by 372kg to 435kg, increasing the ute's maximum possible payload to roughly 1525kg.
While the Ranger Super Duty maintains a superior payload of 1982kg, this upgrade brings Toyota's best-selling ute into closer competition.
The towing capacity remains at 3500kg, while the Super Duty can handle 4500kg.
This upgrade will only be available on select 4x4 grades of the HiLux, which are the WorkMate double cab-chassis, WorkMate double-cab pick-up, SR Extra cab-chassis, SR double cab-chassis, SR double-cab pick-up and SR5 double-cab pick-up.
This means the minimum starting price for a GVM-upgraded HiLux is $56,490 (before on-road costs), substantially cheaper than the Super Duty at $80,000-plus.
Longer monotube rear shock absorbers are fitted as part of the Hilux's GVM upgrade, increasing ride height by up to 10mm.
GVM upgrades also usually involve beefing up other suspension elements to support greater load-bearing capacity.
Axle capacities for the upgrades have increased by 100kg on the front and 280kg on the rear, giving the ute greater sturdiness.
These modified HiLux models will maintain Toyota's five-year manufacturer warranty after the upgrades have been carried out, unlike some aftermarket alternatives.
The GVM upgrade uses genuine Toyota parts, as opposed to external ones, such as on the Ford Ranger with 4WD brand ARB.
The brand said the tune has been developed by the local Toyota Australia branch.
Existing HiLux models and those which are already on order will not be eligible for the warranty-backed upgrade, with it being a factory-installed option.
These HiLux models will still have the 2.8-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine producing 150kW and 500Nm.
The upgrade will be available from August of this year.
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