2025 Toyota HiLux GR Sport Review

The 2025 Toyota HiLux GR Sport is here to solidify its place as the rugged, off-road-ready variant in the HiLux lineup. Crafted with input from Toyota Australia, this top-spec dual-cab ute aims to blend Dakar Rally-inspired toughness with everyday usability. While it’s undoubtedly more capable and aggressive than the standard HiLux, Toyota insists it’s not designed to compete head-to-head with the Ford Ranger Raptor—though comparisons are inevitable.

With significant upgrades to its suspension, powertrain, and off-road gear, the GR Sport positions itself as the ultimate adventure companion for those who demand more from their utility vehicle. However, at $73,990 before on-road costs, it enters a crowded market of high-performance utes. So, does the GR Sport live up to the hype, or is it just a slightly enhanced version of an old favorite? Let’s dive in and see how it stacks up.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Outstanding Off-Road Capability: With its wider track, enhanced suspension, and Dakar-inspired design, the GR Sport is a force to be reckoned with off the beaten path.
• Tough, Aggressive Styling: The bold new bumper, flared arches, and GR branding make it stand out in the dual-cab crowd.
• Retains 3.5T Towing Capacity: Despite its off-road focus, it still delivers the heavy-duty towing performance HiLux owners expect.
• Improved Power and Torque: A 10% boost to both power and torque enhances the driving experience, especially in challenging terrain.
• Comprehensive Safety Features: Equipped with Toyota’s Safety Sense suite, including AEB, lane departure warning, and a 360-degree camera.

Cons

• High Price Point: At nearly $74,000 before on-road costs, it’s one of the priciest HiLux models ever, and competition at this price is fierce.
• Harsh Ride Quality: The stiff suspension designed for off-roading can make everyday driving uncomfortable, particularly on smooth roads.
• Interior Feels Dated: While it has unique GR touches, the cabin doesn’t match the premium feel of newer competitors like the Amarok or Ranger.
• Limited Payload Capacity: The 780kg payload is lower than some rivals, limiting its appeal for workhorse duties.

Exterior Design and Features

The 2025 Toyota HiLux GR Sport is a bold evolution of Toyota’s iconic workhorse, incorporating aggressive styling and functional upgrades to meet the demands of serious off-road enthusiasts. It combines purposeful design elements with a commanding road presence, making it a standout in the dual-cab ute market.

Wider Track for a Tougher Stance

The GR Sport’s wider track—135mm at the front and 155mm at the rear—gives it a more planted and muscular stance. Flared over-fender arches not only add to its rugged appearance but also allow for larger aftermarket tires, such as 33-inch muddies, making it ready for off-road customization.

• Standard 17-inch gloss-black alloy wheels with Bridgestone Dueler all-terrain tires provide excellent off-road grip.
• The 15mm increase in ride height further improves ground clearance for rough terrain.

Aggressive Front-End Design

Toyota has revamped the front-end with a redesigned bumper and grille that incorporate subtle aerodynamic elements. The bold look is complemented by a Dakar-inspired skid plate that offers both protection and style. For additional durability, Toyota offers an optional bull bar through its accessory catalog.

Off-Road-Ready Features

Built for adventure, the GR Sport includes several enhancements tailored for off-road use:

• Rock rails along the sills for added protection on rugged trails.
• Red-painted steel rear recovery points for improved visibility during off-road recoveries.
• A factory-fitted tow bar with a seven-pin wiring harness ensures towing capability is ready to go.

Signature GR Sport Details

The GR Sport’s attention to detail is evident in its finishing touches. GR badging, LED headlights, fog lights, and daytime running lights not only elevate its premium feel but also enhance visibility and safety.

Practical Cargo Solutions

The cargo area features a GR-branded plastic tub liner for added durability. However, its slippery surface may not suit all users, and a spray-in liner could be a worthwhile upgrade for carrying loose items.

With its bold design, thoughtful upgrades, and off-road-specific features, the 2025 Toyota HiLux GR Sport combines form and function to deliver a ute that’s as tough as it looks.

Interior and Comfort

The 2025 Toyota HiLux GR Sport brings subtle yet meaningful upgrades to the cabin, enhancing the driving experience while maintaining the robust and functional character HiLux owners expect. However, while these updates elevate its appeal over standard models, the interior still falls short of the premium feel offered by some of its newer competitors.

GR Sport-Specific Touches

The cabin of the GR Sport features unique elements designed to set it apart:

• Sports Seats: Upholstered in a mix of suede and synthetic leather, the seats offer additional bolstering for better support during off-road driving. GR embroidery on the headrests and contrast stitching on the armrests, seats, and steering wheel further enhance the sporty feel.
• Red Seat Belts: A small but eye-catching detail that ties into the GR Sport’s overall aesthetic.
• GR Steering Wheel: Features leather trim, a red center marker, and the same intuitive button layout as the standard HiLux, including the cruise control stalk.

Technology and Practicality

While the GR Sport gets some technology upgrades, certain elements feel dated compared to its competitors:

• 8.0-Inch Touchscreen Media System: Redesigned with a more user-friendly interface and red graphics, though still not as advanced as rival systems. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are included, but some functions, like inputting navigation details, are locked while driving.
• Knobs and Buttons: Retained for easy control of media and climate functions, which is a practical touch.
• Dual-Zone Climate Control: Offers comfort for front passengers, with single-stage heated front seats.

The cabin provides ample storage, including:

• Two cupholders in front of the gear selector.
• A covered center console bin with a 230V power outlet.
• USB and 12V ports for device charging.

Space and Comfort

The GR Sport is practical but not particularly spacious:

• The second row is adequate for adults, but headroom can feel tight, especially for taller passengers. Solid grab-handles above the doors, while helpful during off-road excursions, further encroach on headspace.
• Rear-seat amenities include directional air vents, bottle holders, a flip-down armrest with cupholders, and a clever shopping bag hook on the front passenger seatback.

Family Use Considerations

The HiLux offers some family-friendly features, such as:

• ISOFIX points in the outboard rear seats.
• A single top-tether anchor for child seats, though its central placement behind the headrests may not feel entirely secure.

While the 2025 Toyota HiLux GR Sport provides a sportier and slightly more premium interior compared to standard models, its cabin still feels functional rather than luxurious. It’s a solid choice for those prioritizing off-road capability and durability over cutting-edge design and spaciousness.

Performance and Off-Road Capability

The 2025 Toyota HiLux GR Sport is built for adventure, combining enhanced power and rugged off-road features to handle tough terrain with ease. While its upgrades make it the most capable HiLux to date, it’s important to note that it remains closer to its roots as a utilitarian vehicle rather than chasing the extreme performance benchmarks set by rivals like the Ford Ranger Raptor.

Engine and Powertrain

Under the hood, the GR Sport is powered by a revised version of Toyota’s reliable 2.8-litre turbo-diesel engine:

• Power Output: Increased to 165kW (up 10%).
• Torque: Boosted to 550Nm (up 10%), providing better low-end grunt for off-road and towing applications.
• Transmission: A six-speed automatic gearbox with recalibrated shift logic for improved performance, along with paddle shifters for greater control in demanding conditions.

Despite these enhancements, the added weight of the GR Sport means the performance gains aren’t as noticeable during regular driving unless pushed into Power mode.

Off-Road Enhancements

The GR Sport’s off-road credentials are bolstered by several significant changes:

• Wider Track and Taller Stance: The 135mm wider front and 155mm wider rear track, coupled with a 15mm taller ride height, improve stability and ground clearance.
• KYB Monotube Shocks: Provide better control over rough terrain while maintaining composure at higher speeds.
• Rear Stabilizer Bar Deletion: Enhances wheel articulation, allowing the GR Sport to handle uneven surfaces with more precision.
• All-Terrain Tires: Bridgestone Dueler 265/65R17 tires ensure traction on loose or slippery surfaces.
• Recovery Points and Skid Plate: Red-painted rear recovery points and a Dakar-inspired skid plate offer practicality and durability during off-road excursions.

Towing and Payload Capacity

The GR Sport retains the HiLux’s robust towing capabilities, offering:

• Braked Towing Capacity: 3500kg.
• Payload Capacity: 780kg, slightly lower than some rivals due to the added weight of the off-road equipment.
• Gross Combination Mass (GCM): 5850kg, requiring careful planning for heavier loads.

Driving Experience

On and off the road, the GR Sport delivers a mixed experience:

• On-Road Comfort: The ride remains firm and unforgiving, particularly on smoother roads, due to its off-road-focused suspension.
• Off-Road Dynamics: Excels in low-speed rock crawling, water wading, and high-speed gravel driving, offering a tactile, connected feel that lets drivers sense the terrain beneath them.
• Towing Performance: Impressively stable, even with a near-3200kg caravan in tow, with minimal suspension sag and solid pulling power.

Fuel Efficiency

Fuel consumption is respectable for its class, with real-world figures showing:

• Off-Road Driving: Approximately 11.3L/100km.
• Towing: Around 18.2L/100km when hauling a heavy caravan.

The 2025 Toyota HiLux GR Sport thrives in challenging off-road environments, providing confident handling and serious capability straight from the showroom floor. While it doesn’t reinvent the formula, it offers a well-rounded performance package for those who demand more from their ute in rugged conditions.

Technology and Safety

The 2025 Toyota HiLux GR Sport features a mix of updated technology and essential safety systems, balancing functionality with rugged dependability. While the tech upgrades enhance usability, the absence of an ANCAP safety rating for this specific variant may raise concerns for some buyers.

Infotainment and Connectivity

The GR Sport’s infotainment system receives a modest upgrade, improving its usability without breaking new ground:

• 8.0-Inch Touchscreen Media System: Redesigned with a cleaner, smartphone-style layout and red graphics unique to the GR Sport.
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto: Standard for seamless smartphone integration.
• JBL Nine-Speaker Sound System: Delivers improved audio quality for a premium listening experience.
• Navigation Limitations: While the system includes built-in navigation, inputting addresses while driving is restricted, encouraging the use of voice control.

Practical design features remain a priority:

• Knobs and buttons for key media and climate controls make adjustments simple and intuitive, even on bumpy terrain.
• Dual-zone climate control and directional air vents for rear passengers enhance cabin comfort.

Safety Features

While the GR Sport does not have a specific ANCAP safety rating, Toyota emphasizes the inclusion of its Toyota Safety Sense suite to ensure a high level of protection:

• Auto Emergency Braking (AEB): Detects pedestrians and cyclists to mitigate potential collisions.
• Lane Departure Warning and Lane Keeping Assist: Help keep the vehicle centered in its lane.
• Blind-Spot Monitoring and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert: Improve situational awareness, especially during lane changes and reversing.
• Surround-View Camera: A 360-degree view assists with parking and navigating tight off-road situations.
• Seven Airbags: Including dual front, front side, full-length curtain, and driver’s knee airbags.

Additional safety enhancements include:

• Front and rear parking sensors for greater maneuverability in tight spaces.
• A reversing camera to aid with parking and towing.

Missed Opportunities

• The GR Sport lacks USB ports for rear passengers, which would be a welcome addition for modern families.
• Its ANCAP rating status, while not unusual for niche variants, might deter safety-conscious buyers.

The 2025 Toyota HiLux GR Sport prioritizes practicality and essential safety features while offering modest tech improvements. Though not as tech-forward as some competitors, it remains reliable and functional, particularly for off-road enthusiasts who value durability and simplicity over cutting-edge gadgets.

Cost and Ownership

The 2025 Toyota HiLux GR Sport is the most expensive variant in the HiLux lineup, with a price tag that reflects its enhanced off-road capabilities and unique design. Despite its premium cost, it offers good value for those seeking a ready-to-go off-road ute, though ownership costs may feel steep compared to some rivals.

Pricing and Competitors

The GR Sport is priced at $73,990 before on-road costs, positioning it among the top-tier dual-cab utes. Here’s how it compares to key competitors (all prices exclude on-road costs):

• Mazda BT-50 Thunder: $73,945.
• Ford Ranger Wildtrak V6: $71,190.
• Nissan Navara PRO-4X Warrior: $70,765.
• GWM Ute Cannon-XSR: $52,990 drive-away (a budget-friendly alternative).

While the GR Sport’s pricing is competitive within its segment, its positioning as a top-spec HiLux makes it less affordable for those looking for a work-focused ute or an entry-level off-roader.

Servicing and Maintenance

Toyota offers a standard five-year, unlimited-kilometer warranty, which extends to seven years for the powertrain if regular logbook servicing is maintained. However, maintenance costs are higher than average for its class:

• Capped-Price Servicing: $280 per service for the first three years or 60,000km.
• Service Intervals: Every six months or 10,000km, more frequent than many rivals (e.g., Ford and Volkswagen offer 12-month/15,000km intervals).
• Annual Service Cost: $560, totaling $1680 for the first three years.

While Toyota’s reliability is a key selling point, the shorter service intervals may inconvenience buyers accustomed to lower-maintenance schedules.

Running Costs

The GR Sport’s real-world fuel efficiency is reasonable for its size and capability:

• Official Combined Fuel Economy: 8.4L/100km.
• Tested Consumption: Around 11.3L/100km during mixed driving and 18.2L/100km while towing a near-3200kg caravan.

Its 80-liter fuel tank provides decent range, though heavy off-road or towing use will reduce efficiency.

Long-Term Value

Toyota vehicles are known for their strong resale value, and the GR Sport is no exception. Its appeal as a top-spec, off-road-ready HiLux ensures it will hold its value well in the used market.

Ownership Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Long warranty coverage with extended powertrain protection.
• Strong resale value and proven reliability.
• Competitive pricing against similarly equipped rivals.

Cons:

• High servicing costs with short intervals.
• Premium price limits accessibility for budget-conscious buyers.

The 2025 Toyota HiLux GR Sport offers a compelling ownership package for off-road enthusiasts who value capability and durability. While the higher running costs and purchase price may deter some buyers, its reliability, warranty coverage, and strong resale value make it a solid long-term investment.

Final Verdict

The 2025 Toyota HiLux GR Sport solidifies its position as the most capable and rugged HiLux ever, blending Toyota’s renowned reliability with thoughtful upgrades for off-road enthusiasts. While it doesn’t aim to rival the Ford Ranger Raptor, it stands as a serious off-road-ready ute that caters to those who prioritize capability and dependability over outright luxury or extreme performance.

Strengths

• Outstanding Off-Road Capability: The wider track, enhanced suspension, and off-road features like the skid plate and recovery points make it a formidable option for adventurers.
• Rugged, Aggressive Styling: The bold exterior design and GR-specific touches ensure it stands out in the dual-cab segment.
• Improved Power and Towing Capacity: Enhanced engine performance and a solid 3.5-tonne towing capacity cater to heavy-duty needs.
• Toyota’s Proven Reliability: Backed by a strong warranty and a reputation for durability, the HiLux GR Sport is built to last.

Weaknesses

• Unrefined Ride Quality: The firm suspension is great off-road but less comfortable on city streets or highways.
• Dated Interior Technology: While functional, the cabin doesn’t match the premium feel or tech-savviness of competitors like the Ford Ranger Wildtrak or Volkswagen Amarok.
• High Running Costs: Shorter service intervals and above-average maintenance costs may deter cost-conscious buyers.
• No ANCAP Rating: The absence of a safety rating specific to the GR Sport may raise concerns among some buyers.

Who Should Buy It?

The 2025 Toyota HiLux GR Sport is ideal for drivers who want a ready-to-go off-road vehicle with a strong focus on durability and performance. It’s best suited for adventurers, weekend warriors, and ute enthusiasts who value rugged capability over interior luxury or cutting-edge tech.

While it’s not the right choice for those seeking a plush, family-oriented vehicle, it’s a fantastic option for buyers looking to tackle challenging terrain and towing tasks with confidence.

Closing Thoughts

The HiLux GR Sport may not reinvent the formula, but it effectively enhances Toyota’s proven platform with meaningful upgrades. It’s a ute designed for the wild—tough, capable, and unapologetically purpose-built. If you’re after a vehicle that’s as dependable as it is adventurous, the GR Sport fits the bill.

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Zachary Skinner

Zachary Skinner is the editor of TechDrivePlay.com, where tech, cars and adventure share the fast lane.
A former snowboarding pro and programmer, he brings both creative flair and technical know-how to his reviews. From high-performance cars to clever gadgets, he explores how innovation shapes the way we move, connect and live.