New Toyota HiLux Rugged X, Rogue 2021 pricing and spec detailed: Ford Ranger Raptor rival gets more expensive

Toyota Australia has revealed pricing for its 2021 HiLux range toppers, with the Rogue wearing a $68,990 before on-road costs sticker and the Rugged X available from $69,990.

Prices are up over last year’s versions with the Rogue increasing $6500 and the now-automatic-only Rugged X up $5500 as the cheaper manual gets deleted.

Both will arrive in local showrooms in the latter half of November, but exact timing is still be confirmed as both are kitted out in Melbourne where COVID-19 restrictions have hampered their rollout.

As with the rest of the new HiLux range, the Rogue and Rugged X are powered by a 2.8-litre turbo-diesel four-cylinder engine, producing 20kW/50Nm more than before for an output of 150kW/500Nm.

This means both Toyota HiLux flagship utes fall just shy of the Ford Ranger Raptor’s 157kW/500Nm figures.

The turbo-diesel engine in the Rogue and Rugged X are mated exclusively to a six-speed automatic transmission for a 3500kg braked towing capacity – 300kg more than before.

Differentiating the Rogue from the rest of the HiLux line-up is a new grille, fender flares, sports bar and 18-inch wheels, which, along with the LED headlight inserts and foglight surrounds, are blacked out.

The Rogue also scores a locally designed motorised roller cover that works in conjunction with the central locking system and features anti-jam function, integrated lighting, and high levels of waterproofing and dust protection, according to Toyota.

Equipment levels in the Rogue are also bolstered by front and rear parking sensors, and a carpet tub liner, with much of the SR5 gear including 8.0-inch multimedia system, satellite navigation, digital radio and leather-trimmed steering carrying over.

While the Rogue focuses more on cosmetic upgrades, the Rugged X is fitted with a number of features to also make it perform better off-road, namely a steel bumper with bash plate, 17-inch wheels, snorkel, heavy-duty front springs and front lighting bar.

Beefier fender flares and bespoke decals are also fitted, while a unique grille also accommodates the forward-facing safety technology needed for adaptive cruise control.

Other changes in the Rogue and Rugged X include retuned transmission, tweaked suspension and steering, and revised chassis mounts designed to improve comfort on Australian roads.