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

2025-11-18 10:00

Let me confess something upfront - I've always been a sucker for pickup trucks that can handle more than just grocery runs. When Toyota announced the 2022 Hilux GR Sport, I found myself wondering if this could finally be the ultimate off-road companion that balances rugged capability with everyday comfort. Having test-driven numerous pickup trucks throughout my career as an automotive journalist, I approached this vehicle with both excitement and skepticism.

The moment I first laid eyes on the Hilux GR Sport, it was clear this wasn't your average workhorse pickup. The aggressive front fascia with its distinctive GR Sport mesh grille immediately sets it apart, while the 18-inch alloy wheels wrapped in all-terrain tires suggest this vehicle means business. But what really caught my attention during my week-long test drive was how Toyota has managed to transform the Hilux from a purely utilitarian vehicle into something that genuinely excites. The sports seats with GR branding aren't just for show - they provide exceptional support during off-road adventures while maintaining comfort during city commutes. I particularly appreciated the red stitching throughout the cabin, which adds a touch of sportiness without feeling overdone.

Now, let's talk about what really matters - performance. Under the hood, the 2.8-liter turbo-diesel engine delivers 204 horsepower and 500 Nm of torque, numbers that translate to real-world capability rather than just impressive specs on paper. During my off-road testing through some challenging terrain north of Melbourne, the Hilux GR Sport handled steep inclines and rocky paths with an ease that reminded me why Toyota has such a legendary reputation in this segment. The revised suspension and shock absorbers specifically tuned for the GR Sport make a noticeable difference when tackling uneven surfaces. I pushed this truck through conditions that would make most SUV owners nervous, and it never once hesitated.

What surprised me most was how the Hilux GR Sport manages to excel in both extreme off-road situations and daily driving conditions. The electronically controlled four-wheel-drive system with high and low ranges provides confidence when you need it most, while the automatic limited-slip differential ensures power goes where it's needed. During my testing, I encountered a particularly muddy section after heavy rains - the kind that would trap lesser vehicles - and the Hilux powered through with minimal wheel spin. This capability isn't just theoretical; it's the result of Toyota's extensive engineering and testing in punishing environments worldwide.

The interior strikes an interesting balance between rugged durability and modern comfort. The 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration worked flawlessly during my testing, though I did notice some lag during colder morning starts. The dual-zone automatic climate control is a welcome feature that I wish more pickup trucks offered, especially considering the temperature variations I experienced driving from coastal areas to higher elevations. Storage solutions throughout the cabin are well-thought-out, with numerous cubbies and compartments that proved perfect for storing my gear during adventures.

When we talk about ultimate off-road capability, it's not just about conquering tough terrain - it's about doing so reliably day after day. This is where Toyota's reputation for durability becomes particularly relevant. Having owned several Toyota vehicles over the years, I've come to appreciate their almost stubborn refusal to quit, and the Hilux GR Sport appears to continue this tradition. During my testing period, I put approximately 1,200 kilometers on the odometer through a variety of conditions, and the vehicle never showed any signs of strain or discomfort. This reliability factor is crucial for off-road enthusiasts who often find themselves far from professional mechanical assistance.

Comparing the Hilux GR Sport to its competitors reveals some interesting distinctions. While other manufacturers focus on either luxury appointments or raw capability, Toyota has managed to blend both in a package that feels genuinely cohesive. The GR Sport isn't just a trim level with cosmetic upgrades - the engineering enhancements are substantial and meaningful for serious off-road enthusiasts. The improved approach and departure angles compared to the standard Hilux might not sound significant on paper, but when you're navigating a steep descent or climbing over obstacles, those extra degrees make all the difference.

I should mention that no vehicle is perfect, and during my testing I noted a few areas where the Hilux GR Sport could improve. The fuel economy during aggressive off-road driving dropped to about 8.2 km/L, which is understandable given the conditions but worth noting for those planning extended remote expeditions. The steering, while precise off-road, feels slightly numb during highway driving compared to some European rivals. And though the ride quality is generally excellent for a pickup truck, you're still aware that you're driving a vehicle with a ladder-frame chassis when traversing broken pavement at lower speeds.

Looking at the broader context of off-road capable vehicles, the Hilux GR Sport occupies a unique position in the market. It offers substantially more capability than lifestyle-oriented trucks while providing more comfort and refinement than purely utilitarian models. This balance is difficult to achieve, and Toyota's decades of experience in developing vehicles for global markets shines through in the execution. The attention to detail in sound insulation particularly impressed me - wind and road noise are remarkably well-controlled for a vehicle with such off-road intentions.

After spending considerable time with the 2022 Toyota Hilux GR Sport, I've come to appreciate it as one of the most complete off-road pickup trucks available today. It manages to blend Toyota's legendary reliability with genuine performance enhancements that make a difference where it counts. While there are more specialized vehicles for extreme rock crawling or more luxurious trucks for premium comfort, the Hilux GR Sport strikes a balance that few competitors can match. For enthusiasts who want a single vehicle that can handle weekday commuting and weekend adventures with equal competence, this might just be the ultimate off-road pickup truck currently on the market. It's not perfect, but it comes closer to the ideal than any pickup I've driven in recent memory.