It was in January this year when Toyota unveiled the India-spec Hilux and opened the booking counter. The carmaker said it would launch the pickup in March 2022, and it did cut in close to honour that commitment. Toyota has just released the prices of the Hilux, which is available in three variants – Standard MT, Hight MT and High AT. In the same order, their prices are Rs 33.99 lakh, Rs 35.80 lakh and Rs 36.80 lakh.

By default, all three variants come with a 4×4 drivetrain and low range gearbox. And, they get the same engine – the 2.8-litre turbo-diesel unit from the Fortuner. The powerplant pumps out 201bhp/500Nm with the 6-speed automatic gearbox, whereas with the 6-speed manual transmission, the peak torque figure drops to 420Nm.

The standard features include cruise control, an 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system, tilt & telescopic steering adjustment, cooled glovebox, push-button start/stop, and fog lamps at either end. The ‘High’ variants pack extra stuff like LED-powered headlamps with DRLs, dual-zone automatic climate control, leather seats, a powered driver’s seat and a front armrest.

On the safety and assistance front, the Hilux offers Active Traction Control, Downhill Assist Control, Electronic Differential Lock, Vehicle Stability Control with Brake Assist, Hill Assist Control and Park Assist (rear-view monitor and parking sensors at either end).

Toyota offers the Hilux in five monotone shades – Emotional Red, White Pearl Crystal Shine, Silver Metallic, Super White and Gray Metallic. And like all other models, the pickup also comes with a 3-year/1,00,000km standard warranty. That is also extendable up to 5 years/1,50,000km.

The Toyota Hilux has just one rival in India – the Isuzu D-Max V-Cross. That comes with a 1.9-litre diesel engine, with 161bhp/360Nm on tap. The V-Cross range starts at just north of Rs 22 lakh and goes up to Rs 25.6 lakh. Out of the two, which one fits your needs better?