2018 Toyota HiLux Workmate review - Long-term owner

Multimedia and safety technology: 7/10

Five airbags. AM/FM radio. CD player. Don't know how to use anything else. It has a screen, but not sure how it works. Keyless remote broke after five years and is far too expensive to replace. So as I cannot lock it, I don't leave valuables inside. Suits me fine.

Practicality: 9/10

As it is a utility, it is perfect for my business. Perfect for carrying one tonne of weight (e.g. 1sqm of rocks or a pallet of pavers). Interior is basic but has everything that is needed. Air-con, electric windows, nice driving position, great vision, easy turning and parking.

Driving: 10/10

The easiest car (utility) to drive. Heaps of power (2.7 petrol). Five-speed manual with perfect gearing. Light. Great cornering. Good brakes. Drives better with a not-so-heavy load in the back. Armrest at the right height. Everything is positioned for effortless driving. Steering is light but direct and safe.

Running costs: 7/10

With petrol at roughly $1.90 per litre on average, and a 60L tank, it costs over $100 to fill from empty. But the distance is a miserable 450-500km on a full tank. My previous two Hiluxes would achieve 600km on a full tank. Maybe emission control?

Reliability: 10/10

One word: Toyota. This is the 6th Toyota (three Corollas and three Hiluxes) I have owned. The most reliable car on the road. Starts first time every time, and when it doesn't start first time, you know the battery will need replacing soon enough. Just keep regular servicing of the vehicle.