Faults:

Failures in the regeneration of the particulate filter, which sometimes causes white smoke; some loss of power and activation of warning lights on the dashboard.

Fuel injector failures that cause ignition problems. A common symptom is a metallic knocking (rattling) in the engine.

Characteristic noises ("trrrr") when starting, due to wear on the timing chains.

Minor electrical problems such as warning lights on the dashboard that come on, which do not affect the engine's operation in any way.

General Comments:

Despite its utilitarian focus, the equipment is quite comprehensive.

The SR5 with automatic transmission includes air conditioning, smart key, power-adjustable driver's seat, trip computer with color display (without the option to view the digital speedometer), leather upholstery, and a state-of-the-art infotainment system.

The system includes a touchscreen that deploys when the vehicle is started. It is compatible with MirrorLink, has Wi-Fi connectivity, and can even be controlled by gestures.

In terms of quality, the finish is adequate if we consider it a commercial vehicle. All the plastics are hard, but their quality isn't far off from what you'd find in a luxury car like a Corolla. The best thing, really, is the assembly. There isn't a single rattle or squeak to betray poor build quality, which is great news considering it will likely spend a good part of its life on poorly paved or even unpaved roads.

The engine response is very good. While the power isn't quite enough to thrill an enthusiastic driver, the torque makes it clear that even with five passengers and cargo in the bed, this Toyota pickup will have the necessary power to handle any situation. The bed measures 1,525 mm long and 1,540 mm wide, and can carry 805 kg.

The 31 centimeters of ground clearance and 65-profile tires might be fantastic off-road, but in the city and on the highway, they don't mesh well with the soft suspension, rigid rear axle, and the vehicle's 2.1-ton curb weight. The sense of security it provides in these situations isn't the best, especially considering the lack of any assistance beyond ABS brakes.

As for fuel consumption, on the highway at a constant speed and without pushing the engine too hard, it's easy to achieve good fuel economy; in the city, even with heavy traffic, it averages almost 9 km/l, a remarkable figure considering that it's a vehicle that weighs over two tons.

As a utility vehicle —and nothing more—, the Toyota Hilux is wonderful to me: plenty of torque, guaranteed durability and sufficient load capacity.