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With a reputation as a durable car, at 22000km this Hilux looks like new

2005 Toyota Hilux Double Cab 4x2 2,7litre VVT-i

2005 Toyota Hilux Double Cab 4x2 2,7litre VVT-i

Price: R209995

Mileage: 22000km

Colour: White

Motor plan: Remainder of the 3-year-100000km factory warranty

Charl Wilken

The legend certainly lives on in the new-generation Hilux. Having been around for more than 35 years and still topping the charts for best-selling bakkie is an accomplishment in itself.

It comes as no surprise that the Hilux, after all these years, still sets the standard in this segment of the market.

Our used test model for the week proved why the Hilux is still selling like hotcakes and admired by everyone.

The car was a 2005 Double Cab 4x2 2,7litre VVT-i fitted with otherwise optional leather interior and wooden trim.

When entering the cabin of the new Hilux, you immediately realise why it's been so successful. The interior is good to look at and very modern.

With its reputation as a durable vehicle, it still appeared like new with a mere 22000km on the clock.

Clearly it has not been used for any off-road bashing before (maybe gravel roads, but nothing more), and the load area also appeared very tidy.

We liked the chrome door handles and side mirrors that looked nice with the chrome bars at the back as well as the side-steps.

There is also a bar in front to prevent the bumper from getting scratched or damaged.

There might be some fancy chrome components, but make no mistake, the Hilux still looks rugged and ready to tame the undiscovered "out-there".

Ground clearance similar to its 4x4 brother and a lockable rear differential ensures the Hilux is more than capable of some moderate off-road driving.

The overall feeling driving this Hilux was that it is basically a new car, but not that we expected otherwise with just 22000km on the clock.

The seats are comfortable and provide sufficient lateral support, even for the longer journeys.

The quality of the ride was particularly impressive. One would have expected a much harsher ride from this kind of vehicle, but the Hilux proved to be more refined than we expected.

The 2,7litre four-cylinder powerplant, mated with a five-speed manual gearbox, delivers all the power to the rear wheels.

Power figures for the 2,7litre petrol unit stands at a healthy 118kW and 241Nm of torque.

The refined engine makes driving on the road a pleasant experience.

The Hilux is equipped with most conveniences one finds in an average luxury sedan.

Air-con, power-steering, electric windows, front-loading CD player and remote central locking are all standard features on the Hilux.

Safety features included dual airbags, side-impact bars and an alarm system.

It comes with the remainder of its 3-year-100000km factory warranty and service plan.

And, if you might not feel quite happy with this vehicle, which I doubt, you can exchange it within seven days of purchase.

l Contact Willy at McCarthy Pre-Owned in Centurion on 012-683-9700.

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