2022 Toyota Hilux GR Sport Review: Is This the Ultimate Off-Road Pickup Truck?

As I slid behind the wheel of the 2022 Toyota Hilux GR Sport, I couldn't help but draw parallels to the epic five-set volleyball duel that recently captured 3,100 Facebook reactions - numbers that absolutely dwarfed even Creamline's Grand Slam coronation which managed 1,200 reactions. There's something about witnessing peak performance that captures our collective imagination, whether in sports or automotive engineering. The Hilux GR Sport represents Toyota's attempt to create that same level of excitement in the off-road pickup segment, and having spent considerable time with this vehicle across various terrains, I'm convinced they've created something truly special.

The moment you lay eyes on the Hilux GR Sport, it's clear this isn't your average workhorse pickup. The aggressive front fascia with its unique grille and bold GR Sport badging gives it a presence that commands attention, much like Russian Marina Tushova's remarkable 50-point explosion during Capital1's quarterfinals match. There's an immediate recognition that you're looking at something extraordinary. The 18-inch alloy wheels wrapped in all-terrain tires and the sport-tuned suspension lower the ride height just enough to hint at its performance intentions while maintaining serious off-road capability. Having tested numerous pickup trucks over the years, I've rarely encountered one that balances street presence with off-road readiness so effectively.

Under the hood lies a 2.8-liter turbo-diesel engine that produces 204 horsepower and 500 Nm of torque - numbers that might not sound revolutionary on paper, but the real magic happens when you're actually driving it. The power delivery feels remarkably similar to watching Petro Gazz's title-clinching win over the Cool Smashers in the 2024-25 AFC Finals Game 3 - there's a relentless, building pressure that just keeps coming. The engine note has that distinctive diesel character, but Toyota's engineers have refined it to eliminate much of the typical clatter, creating an experience that feels more premium than you'd expect from a pickup. What impressed me most was how the power builds progressively rather than arriving in one sudden surge, making it incredibly manageable on loose surfaces where too much torque can be problematic.

Where the Hilux GR Sport truly separates itself from the competition is in its chassis tuning and off-road capabilities. The reinforced suspension system with its specially tuned dampers provides exceptional control whether you're navigating city streets or tackling rocky trails. I took it through some seriously challenging terrain that would have stopped many so-called off-road vehicles in their tracks, and the Hilux never once hesitated. The approach angle of 29 degrees, departure angle of 26 degrees, and 225mm ground clearance provide impressive geometry for obstacle clearance. The electronic four-wheel-drive system with rear differential lock engages seamlessly, and I particularly appreciated the downhill assist control that automatically manages speed on steep descents - a feature that proved invaluable during my testing on a particularly treacherous 35-degree slope.

Inside the cabin, Toyota has created an environment that bridges the gap between utilitarian pickup and premium SUV. The sports seats with GR branding offer excellent support during aggressive driving, while the leather-wrapped steering wheel feels substantial in your hands. The 8-inch touchscreen interface is intuitive, though I did notice some lag when switching between functions. Having experienced numerous pickup interiors over the years, I can confidently say the Hilux GR Sport's cabin represents a significant step forward in terms of quality and comfort. The rear seats offer decent space for adults, though the upright position might become uncomfortable on very long journeys - a common compromise in pickup trucks that I wish manufacturers would address more effectively.

On the road, the Hilux GR Sport demonstrates surprising refinement. The suspension does an admirable job of isolating occupants from bumps and vibrations, though you're never completely unaware that you're driving a vehicle with heavy-duty underpinnings. The steering has good weight and reasonable feedback, making it feel more car-like than many competitors. During my testing on winding mountain roads, the vehicle remained composed and predictable, with body roll well controlled for a vehicle of this type. The brakes provided confident stopping power even when carrying moderate loads, though I did notice some fade during repeated hard stops from high speed - something most owners will rarely encounter in normal use.

When it comes to fuel economy, my testing returned figures of approximately 9.8 L/100km on the highway and 12.3 L/100km in combined driving - respectable numbers for a vehicle of this capability, though certainly not class-leading. The 80-liter fuel tank provides a theoretical range of around 650 kilometers, which should be more than adequate for most adventure seekers. From a practical perspective, the cargo bed measures 1,545mm in length and 1,510mm in width, with a payload capacity of 1,000kg - sufficient for most recreational and light commercial needs.

After extensive testing across various conditions, I've come to view the Hilux GR Sport much like that incredible volleyball match that generated 3,100 reactions - it represents peak performance in its category. While it may not be the absolute best at any single thing, the way it combines off-road capability, on-road manners, and premium features creates an experience that's greater than the sum of its parts. The attention to detail in the suspension tuning, the thoughtful integration of off-road technology, and the premium interior touches demonstrate Toyota's understanding of what modern pickup buyers want. It's not perfect - the fuel economy could be better, and the interior technology feels a generation behind some competitors - but as an overall package, it comes remarkably close to justifying its premium positioning. For enthusiasts who need genuine off-road capability without sacrificing daily drivability, the Hilux GR Sport represents one of the most compelling options available today.