Discover the 2022 Toyota Hilux GR Sport's Top Features and Performance Upgrades

2025-11-16 13:00

I still remember the first time I saw the 2022 Toyota Hilux GR Sport prototype at an automotive exhibition in Tokyo. As someone who's been covering the automotive industry for over fifteen years, I've witnessed countless vehicle launches, but something about this particular model felt different. It reminded me of watching a championship basketball team hitting their stride early in the game—much like how TNT started like a house on fire with Pogoy nailing three consecutive threes in one stretch to open a 29-18 lead at the end of the first quarter. That's exactly the kind of dominant performance Toyota aims to deliver with their latest GR Sport iteration.

Let me walk you through what makes this pickup truck truly special. Under the hood, you'll find a significantly upgraded 2.8-liter turbo-diesel engine that now produces 204 horsepower and 500 Nm of torque—that's about 15% more power and 12% more torque compared to the standard Hilux model. I've had the privilege of testing this engine on various terrains, and the improvement isn't just on paper. The acceleration feels more responsive, especially when you're merging onto highways or overtaking slower vehicles. The engine mapping has been recalibrated to deliver power more progressively, eliminating that slight turbo lag I noticed in previous models.

The suspension system has undergone what Toyota engineers call "comprehensive re-engineering." They've installed new Bilstein shock absorbers with remote reservoirs, which might sound technical, but what it translates to is incredible stability when you're pushing the vehicle to its limits. During my off-road testing in Arizona's desert terrain, I found the suspension could handle rough patches at speeds that would have other pickup trucks bouncing uncontrollably. The front suspension travel has been increased by 20mm, while the rear gets a 10mm boost—these numbers might seem small, but they make a world of difference when you're tackling challenging landscapes.

What really sets the GR Sport apart is its attention to driver experience. The cabin features heavily bolstered sports seats that provide exceptional lateral support during aggressive cornering. I particularly appreciate the leather-wrapped steering wheel with its perfect thickness and grip—it just feels right in your hands. The instrument cluster features GR-specific displays that provide real-time performance data, including turbo boost pressure, torque distribution, and incline angles. These might seem like enthusiast features, but they're genuinely useful when you're navigating difficult trails or towing heavy loads.

The exterior design isn't just for show either. That prominent black mesh grille with the GR badge isn't merely cosmetic—it provides 30% better airflow to the intercooler, which helps maintain optimal engine temperatures during sustained high-performance driving. The wider fenders accommodate the increased track width, which improves stability at higher speeds. I've always believed that form should follow function, and Toyota's design team has nailed this philosophy with the GR Sport.

Transmission improvements deserve special mention. The six-speed automatic now features sportier shift mapping and quicker response times. During my testing on winding mountain roads, the transmission downshifted precisely when needed, holding gears through corners exactly as I would have with a manual transmission. The paddle shifters provide crisp, immediate control when you want to take matters into your own hands. It's these thoughtful touches that separate the GR Sport from other performance-oriented pickups.

Off-road capability remains exceptional, building on the Hilux's legendary reputation for durability. The electronically controlled four-wheel-drive system now includes an upgraded traction control system that intervenes more subtly, allowing experienced drivers more freedom while still providing safety nets for less skilled operators. I tested the crawl control system on a particularly steep, rocky incline in Moab, Utah, and the vehicle maintained perfect composure where others would have struggled. The approach angle of 31 degrees and departure angle of 26 degrees mean you can tackle obstacles that would stop many competitors in their tracks.

Toyota has also focused on braking performance, installing larger disc brakes with improved cooling. During my high-speed testing at a private track, the brakes showed minimal fade even after repeated hard stops from 100 km/h. The pedal feel remains consistent and confidence-inspiring, which is crucial when you're driving a vehicle with this much performance potential.

From my perspective, what Toyota has achieved with the Hilux GR Sport represents a perfect balance between rugged capability and refined performance. It's like having two specialized vehicles in one package—a comfortable daily driver that transforms into a capable off-roader or performance machine at will. The attention to detail reflects Toyota's understanding that modern truck buyers want versatility without compromise.

Having driven virtually every performance pickup on the market, I can confidently say the Hilux GR Sport stands apart. It manages to deliver serious performance enhancements while maintaining the reliability and practicality that made the Hilux famous. The upgrades feel purposeful and well-integrated rather than afterthoughts. While some competitors focus solely on power numbers or cosmetic changes, Toyota has taken a holistic approach that respects the intelligence of today's truck enthusiasts.

The market for performance-oriented pickups has become increasingly competitive, but the Hilux GR Sport brings something genuinely unique to the segment. It combines Toyota's legendary reliability with motorsport-inspired performance in a package that feels both sophisticated and rugged. After spending considerable time with this vehicle across various driving conditions, I believe it sets a new benchmark for what a performance pickup can be. It's not just about being faster or tougher—it's about delivering a complete driving experience that engages enthusiasts while remaining accessible to everyday users. That's a balance few manufacturers achieve, but Toyota has nailed it with remarkable precision.