Toyota to Revive HiLux GR Sport in 2027
The new-generation HiLux is reportedly set to bring back the GR Sport performance variant next year.
Updated on Nov. 1, 2026 in Trucks
Toyota is reportedly bringing back the HiLux GR Sport in 2027 on the new-generation model, with Toyota South Africa CEO Andrew Kirby saying it will be introduced to South Africa next year. The previous Australian GR Sport sold from 2023 to 2025 and featured a power upgrade to 165kW and 550Nm.
Why it matters
The return of the GR Sport would extend a performance-focused variant on a ute that has been refreshed with a latest-generation model launched last year. Toyota Australia has said a wide-track return is possible but that nothing has been announced.
The previous Australian GR Sport ran a 2.8-litre turbo-diesel upgraded from 150kW/500Nm to 165kW/550Nm, paired with a six-speed automatic and 17-inch wheels. Toyota has not confirmed whether the wide-track layout or these specifications will carry over to the new-generation model.
The players
Toyota South Africa
The South African arm of the Japanese automaker, which confirmed the new-generation GR Sport will arrive there next year.
Andrew Kirby
Chief executive of Toyota South Africa, who announced the new-generation HiLux GR Sport's introduction to the market.
Toyota Australia
The Australian division of Toyota, which has said a wide-track return is possible but that nothing has been announced.
The details
The previous GR Sport included KYB suspension, Bridgestone Dueler all-terrain tyres and rock rails, while the latest HiLux shares its underpinnings and footprint with its predecessor. Rear disc brakes are standard from the SR5 grade and up on the current model.
Timeline
2022: Wide-track HiLux introduced late in the previous generation's life cycle.
2023: Wide-track Rogue variant and GR Sport badge introduced to Australia.
2023-25: Previous Australian HiLux GR Sport sold.
2025: Latest-generation HiLux launched.
2027: New-generation HiLux GR Sport expected in South Africa and Australia.
Roadmap
The 2023 wide-track HiLux GR Sport was introduced late in the previous generation's life cycle, and its potential return on the new model would continue that performance lineage. The move would also position Toyota's ute line against rivals as the company rolls out its latest-generation HiLux.
Buyers considering a HiLux GR Sport should expect the performance upgrades and wide-track design to be unconfirmed until Toyota announces specifications. Anyone planning a purchase in 2027 may want to compare the new model's pricing and availability once details are released.
The takeaway
The return of the wide-track GR Sport would signal Toyota's continued focus on performance utes, though buyers should wait for official confirmation before making plans around the 2027 model.
What happens next
A new-generation HiLux GR Sport is expected to be introduced to South Africa and Australia in 2027.
Further reading
Explore more in Trucks for context on the HiLux and other utes.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Drive.
