Rugged, tough yet family-friendly defines the Toyota Hilux and Fortuner

Both the popular Toyota Hilux pick-up truck and Fortuner SUV (sport utility vehicle) share a common DNA of toughness, durability and reliability.

Whether conquering tough terrain or cruising through leisure checkpoints, both the Hilux and Fortuner are trusted companions for those who live life beyond boundaries or simply enjoy the thrill of a lifestyle drive.

Carsifu recently spoke to the satisfied owner of a 2014 3.0-litre Hilux, who has fond memories of navigating challenging off-road terrain near Kuantan, Pahang some years ago.

He said his experiences with the Hilux confirmed its reputation for being rugged, dependable, and built to handle demanding environments.

The Hilux owner, who works in the construction sector, says the pick-up’s performance and durability continue to impress him.

In East Malaysia, the Hilux is known as an essential tool for plantation owners who rely on its robust ladder-frame chassis and high-torque engine to navigate muddy, unforgiving trails.

For contractors, its dependability and payload capacity are vital for keeping projects on schedule, whether under the scorching sun or during a torrential downpour.

Earlier in May 2025, UMW Toyota Motor (UMWT) had revved up East Malaysia with two back-to-back weekends of high-octane excitement.

Held in Kota Kinabalu and Kuching, the campaign delivered a thrilling mix of off-road adventures, lifestyle engagement, and community spirit.

Highlights for participants included treasure hunts where the Hilux navigated scenic and challenging routes, thus showcasing the pick-up’s seamless adaptability to both everyday routes and unpredictable conditions.

Participants navigated real-world terrain that ranged from steep inclines to gravel paths and sharp turns, conditions that showcased the Hilux’s legendary quality, durability, and reliability.

Members of the public were also particularly impressed by the Hilux GR Sport variant, praised for its commanding performance and agile handling, particularly during high-speed Gymkhana courses.

The Hilux GR Sport has a powerful 2.8-litre engine making 224PS and 550Nm, and comes with GR Sport exterior and interior styling, and GR Sport tuned suspension.

Meanwhile, for those who need to balance toughness with family life, the Fortuner stands out with a spacious cabin that can fit seven persons, or make room for extra cargo.

Built on the same legendary platform as the Hilux, the Fortuner offers a compelling mix of off-road prowess and seven-seater comfort.

The Fortuner provides the confidence to tackle a flash flood on a city street or venture onto a remote jungle path for a family camping trip.

The durability and reliability that is familiar to owners of rugged Toyota vehicles such as the Hilux and Fortuner, can also be attributed to the Japanese automaker’s involvement in motorsports via Toyota Gazoo Racing (TGR).

Toyota’s global racing division has its roots in its commitment to make ever-better cars through motorsports.

TGR implements a philosophy of challenging vehicles to extremes in motorsports environments, where technology is tested to breaking point and team members cultivate a mindset of teamwork and problem solving.

From its origins at the Nürburgring, Germany - famed for being the world’s most demanding test course - TGR has won World Championships in rally, endurance races and rally-raids.