Using the Raider 2.4 GD-6 4x4 as the donor, the two new Limited Edition models replace the aforementioned Raider 2.4 4x4 variants in standard guise – for a ‘limited’ period only. Badged as the 2.4 GD-6 Raider X 4X4 six-speed manual and 2.4 GD-6 Raider X 4X4 six-speed auto respectively, the newcomers are easily distinguished thanks to the bespoke exterior package.

Boasting some really cool kit, the Hilux Raider X flaunts its extrovert personality with a host of exclusive exterior standard features:

. All-new 17-inch, bi-tone, diamond-polished, chrome and black multi-spoke alloy wheels
. Chunky matt black overfenders with distinctive red insert detailing
. Chrome grille inset bar with Hilux badging
. “Louvre” matt black styling bar and integrated tonneau cover
. Unique Raider X badging

There’s also an exciting colour palette to choose from including Glacier White, Attitude Black, Arizona Red, Graphite Grey, Chromium silver, Cosmic Blue, Oxide bronze, Sand Beige, Orange Metallic and Platinum White Pearl.

And when it comes to practicality, Hilux Raider X goes the extra mile with a fully rubberised cargo bed to soften the blows of extreme loading, not to mention the spring-loaded Tailgate Assist function which makes light work of opening and closing the tailgate.

A peek under the hood exposes what drives the new Hilux Raider X – the proven 2.4-litre diesel powerplant employing DOHC 16-valve, inline 4-cylinder architecture and delivering 110kW and an extraordinary 400Nm of torque available from a very accessible 1600rpm. And there’s zero penalties at the pumps – the combined fuel consumption is pegged at just 7,6 litres per 100km for the manual and 7,7 litres per 100km for the auto.

Move indoors and you can’t help but wax lyrical about the many comfort and convenience features you’ll find on the Raider X’s standard menu. These include such niceties as cruise control; a TFT multi-info display inset within the instrument cluster; a large-screen display audio with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and Bluetooth functionality; steering wheel controls for audio, telephone, info display and voice commands; as well as a reverse camera.

To keep you safe in the new Hilux Raider X there’s an exhaustive array of active and passive systems. It goes without saying that must-haves such as ABS with Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD) are standard, but the list also includes Traction Control and Vehicle Stability Control or VSC. And with its considerable off-roading credentials come Hill Assist Control and Trailer Sway Control. (The Hilux employs an electronically activated Limited Slip Differential and a switchable four-wheel drive system that can be engaged on the fly.)

In terms of the passive safety package the Hilux comes with a full suite of airbags comprising side, curtain, driver, passenger and driver knee airbags. ISOFIX child-seat attachment points for the rear seat keeps things family-friendly, while front and rear Park Distance Control (PDC) with visual and audio warnings assist with parking manoeuvres. Taking care of security, there’s the latest state-of-the-art Anti-Theft System comprising an immobiliser/alarm with Intrusion Sensor.

Pricing, Warranty & Service

The good news is that all this extra kit comes at a very small price premium:

Hilux 2.4 GD-6 4x4 Raider X M/T - R674,800

Hilux 2.4 GD-6 4x4 Raider X A/T - R704,300

Hilux Raider X models are covered by the three-year/100 000km warranty and a 9-services/90,000km service plan. Service intervals are set at 10 000 km and customers can purchase a variety of service plan and warranty extensions from their nearest Toyota dealer (220 countrywide).

All Toyota owners can sign up for a personal MyToyota profile. MyToyota is designed by Toyota SA to provide a platform for owners to quickly and conveniently access all information and services related to their vehicle(s). Additionally, all new Toyota vehicles are fitted with a device that opens up a whole new world of features. Simply opt in and you have access to Wi-Fi capability (15MB free) along with a host of supplementary Connect services.