Updated: 2024 Toyota Hilux GR Sport priced under PHP 2.2M

New Toyota Hilux GR Sport set to be launched very soon

Editor: The article has been updated to reflect the correct pricing.

Things are picking up again in the pickup truck (no pun intended) market. Just a few months ago, Ford Philippines unleashed the all-new Ranger Raptor on the market. Bigger, bulkier, and more high-tech than ever, the Blue Oval's flagship pickup gets an improved suspension courtesy of new Fox shocks, front & rear differential locks, and a full-time 4WD system with selectable drive modes.

But while the Ranger Raptor appears to be at the top of the pickup truck food chain, Toyota wants to take on Ford's apex predator with a vehicle of its own, the 2024 Hilux GR Sport. Unlike the Hilux GR Sport that the automaker currently sells, the updated version gets a massive overhaul not just in looks and tech, but also in its suspension.

We already received word that the first units of the 2024 Hilux GR Sport are already in the country. In fact, we were able to get a good look at the performance pickup truck before its scheduled debut. But how much will the truck actually retail for?

The 2024 Hilux GR Sport will retail for PHP 2.166 million for the automatic variant, while customers who want the red model will spend another PHP 20,000. 

As far as features are concerned, we won't be surprised if it will have similar equipment as the one launched in Australia earlier this year. With that, we can expect the pickup to have a wider track, dedicated monotube shocks, stiffer springs, a skid plate, rock rails, four-piston brake calipers at the front, a more optimal front/rear suspension balance to help deliver better handling, as well as bulging overfenders. But unlike the Ranger Raptor which gets a multi-link rear suspension, the Hilux GR Sport still uses a leaf spring setup.

Under the hood, the PH-spec 2024 Hilux GR Sport will likely be equipped with the improved 2.8-liter turbo-diesel engine that now cranks out 224 PS at 3000 rpm and a beefy 550 Nm of torque at 2800 rpm. It still gets a 6-speed automatic transmission although Toyota claims it has been retuned to deliver a sportier feel.

Toyota is looking to overpower Ford with its Ranger Raptor fighter. All we can say for now is that we hope Toyota has plenty of units available although we expect them to likely run out right away.