Can the 2023 Toyota Hilux Rogue make the new Ford Ranger sweat?

2023 Toyota Hilux Rogue.

Revealed earlier this year, the new 2023 Toyota Hilux Rogue has finally gone on sale in the Australian market this week where it commands a base price of AUS$70,200 – approx. RM214,431.69. Though based on the existing Hilux Rogue that’s on sale locally right now, this new 2023 version sports quite a few enhancements all around.

Aptly, the visual changes are very clear and, to a certain extent, it all looks poised to make some of its key rivals like the recently launched new generation Ford Ranger WildTrak – and perhaps the Ranger Raptor too – sweat a little. Much of this is fuelled by the tougher new stance the 2023 Toyota Hilux Rogue boasts thanks to its widened track – 140mm front and back – plus the massively flared wheel arches to match. It also ride 20mm taller than before too.

By the way, the widened track width also prompted Toyota to lengthen the front suspension arm and front stabiliser bar, as well as a readjusted shock absorber angle. Also extended is the rear axle, with dampers repositioned further outwards towards the wheel, plus the addition of a rear stabiliser bar – seen for the first time in the Hilux.

All of these chassis tweaks were meant to enhance both on- and off-road performance, according to Toyota, and the firm further claims that roll rigidity has increased by 20% too. In turn, this should also deliver improved on-road handling, as well as improved steering feel whilst tackling corners and switching lanes.

Both the front and rear tracks are now 120mm wider, and are matched with massive flared wheel arches.

New rear disc brakes hides behind a set of larger new 18-inch alloy wheels.

Of course, the upgrades don’t end there as Toyota have also enhanced the 2023 Hilux Rogue’s braking abilities by swapping out the rear drums for a set of new ventilated disc brakes too. These work with upgraded front disc brakes that now measures 432mm (17-inches) – 25mm (1-inch) larger than the ones primed in the outgoing Hilux Rogue.

Capping off the exterior changes are the new and darker-finshed 18-inch alloy wheels the 2023 Toyota Hilux Rogue rolls on.

For the Australian market, the 2023 Toyota Hilux Rogue also sports a number of premium features and amenities on board. Highlights include leather accented upholstery, panoramic view monitor, a 9-speaker premium hi-fi audio  system, not forgetting a few other truck-centric features too such as an integrated trailer wiring harness and towball, locally-developed electric roller cover for flatbed, a sports bar, and flatbed floor lined with something called “marine-grade carpet”.

Mechanically, the 2023 Toyota Hilux Rogue continues to employ the outgoing model’s 2.8-litre 4-cyl turbo-diesel mill that delivers roughly 201 hp and a meaty 500 Nm of twist. The mill is paired exclusively with a 6-speed automatic transmission plus Toyota’s rather bulletproof 4x4 driveline.

Current 2020MY Toyota Hilux 2.8 Rogue.

With its entry into the Australian market, there’s a possibility that this version of the Hilux Rogue might enter the Malaysian market to replace the current Hilux Rogue. Given that the Hilux pick-up truck model has greatly fuelled UMW Toyota Motor’s (UMWT) sales efforts locally in Malaysia for some time, we’re certain this new and toughened version of the Hilux could make an entry into our market soon enough.

Are you digging the 2023 Toyota Hilux Rogue yet? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.