If there’s a cabbie that is synonymous with bakkies in South Africa, it is the Toyota Hilux.
For decades, it has topped the best-selling bakkie list, and for many in this country, is the first brand to come to mind when they think of rugged all-rounder that can tote a decent load and withstand punishment at that, for years.
In 2015, the spruced up Ford Ranger rose in the ranks and has been trailing the Hilux in second place ever since.
However, the Toyota still has a firm grip on top spot, selling more than a million units since its introduction in the late 1960s.
The Hilux has serious history here, and to mark its half century, Toyota and Arctic Trucks are creating an Invincible 50 Limited Edition.
This bakkie has earned its stripes, with conquests of both the north and south poles, scaling the slopes of an erupting volcano courtesy of Top Gear, and pulling other 4x4s out of dongas out back on the farm for decades.
The exclusive edition is done in partnership with specialists in extreme terrain driving and, starting with the obvious, includes performance suspension from Bilstein and Arctic Trucks, kwaai new alloy wheels in satin black and a machine lip to provide a snug fit to the 265/75R16 BF Goodrich all-terrain tyres.
This combo apparently gives more ground clearance (40mm at front and 20mm at rear), added articulation and increased steering angles, without jeopardising on-road performance.
And it’s got a meaner look too.
Wider front and rear wing treatments add to the muscular character and raised stance, while a hooped sports bar carries the four high-power LED Vision-X lights for that in the bush night time adventure with the buddies.
Other details added to mark this 50-year rule are rear parking sensors, a tough liner at back (an essential nowadays), a classic Toyota tailgate graphic plus a numbered plaque and Invincible 50 chrome badging where it counts.
All 50 are finished in black.
Senior Vice President of Toyota South Africa Motors Calvyn Hamman says: “The Hilux’s evolutionary progress through the generations has produced a vehicle with the ideal combination of superlative off-road driving manners, car-like refinement, plus rugged workhorse credentials
“It’s undoubtedly the purest distillation of toughness and versatility you’ll ever find in pick-up.”