The new generation of Toyota Hilux, which appeared in 2005, received many significant technical changes. There is not much competition in the off-road pickup class. The requirements of potential customers for pickup trucks are quite clear. They expect long, trouble-free operation even when the vehicle's capabilities are fully utilized, which in reality happens quite often. In addition, owners rely on good off-road capabilities and the possibility of tuning.
So? Is the new Hilux an exclusive “vatovoz” or a real practical jeep? Is he ready to meet all demands? Toyota's motto is combining reliability and comfort. Therefore, the pickup truck did not receive either dynamic engines or sophisticated equipment. However, this approach turned out to be a losing one. Competitors offered much more advanced technology. As a result, Toyota had to make a number of changes. First of all, increase engine power and improve the level of equipment.
The new seventh generation of the pickup truck was built on an improved frame. Toyota claimed that thanks to it, body rigidity increased significantly. Which in turn affected the stability of the body and reduced the noise level in the cabin. The cross-sectional area of the side spar has increased by 75%: the height has increased by 2 cm and the width by 3 cm. Engineers have also worked to reduce the number of welds.
The new body has grown significantly, becoming more practical and streamlined. Significant updates also affected the chassis: rack and pinion steering appeared.
Engines
The pickup received the engine from its predecessor without changes. This is a turbodiesel with a modern Common Rail injection system. But its power is not impressive - only 102 hp. Even in 2005 this was very little.
2.5-liter turbodiesel with 102 hp? Sounds unattractive! Drivers who prefer dynamics and spend a lot of time traveling on highways should avoid this version. This pickup truck accelerates to 100 km/h in an endless 18 seconds! The dynamics of later modifications with 120 and 144 horsepower versions of the engine are much more pleasant.
But the 2.5-liter turbodiesel also has its advantages. For example, it is very economical. On the highway it is quite possible to achieve a result of 6.5-7 l/100 km. The motor also pleases with its elasticity. Gears can be safely engaged even if the speed drops below 1500 rpm. But for more dynamic movements it is better to use the version with a 3-liter turbodiesel. This modification was initially equipped with a 4-speed automatic transmission, and later with a 5-speed one.
However, many pickup truck owners are more interested in reliability. In this regard, Toyota engines performed quite well, but not ideally. Many units (mostly 120-horsepower modifications with an intercooler) were equipped with a defective turbocharger. Some of them were replaced as part of warranty repairs. If a turbocharger fails, it is much cheaper to repair it. The cost of a new turbocharger from official dealers exceeds 100,000 rubles. Fortunately, the injectors don't cause many problems. But quite often the clutch wears out after 50,000 km.
The Hilux has performed well with petrol engines of 2.7 and 4.0 liters. The latest version with a compressor (TRD, Australia) develops 306 hp.
Review of Toyota Ist/Temp: a reliable car for the family
I have owned Ista for 5 years. I bought it in 2021. The car itself came off the assembly line in 2004. It’s already quite old, but I don’t want to get rid of it yet. The model suits everyone. For a family who prefers the urban jungle, this option is almost ideal:
- Small dimensions and easy to park.
- Cheap consumables and spare parts.
- High reliability.
- Consumption is 6-6.5 liters per 100 km.
- Possibility of interior transformation.
Started in winter without any problems. In my review of Toyota East, I want to note that somehow I had to go to -37. There were no problems with launching. The engine seized instantly.
I don’t like to drive hard, but overall the car performs well when accelerating. At 140 km/h there were no problems with taxiing. The body hardware is reliable. Transported north from Japan. We don’t skimp on reagents in winter, so after a couple of years the cars start to rot. Everything is fine with Ista. No corrosion has been noticed yet.
The comfort of the seats does not cause any complaints. I didn’t have to drive long distances, but in general the work requires almost constant driving (sales representative). Lateral support improves the quality of use of the machine. My back doesn't go stiff.
There are also disadvantages. The main disadvantage of the model is sound insulation. At low speeds, the car maintains a tolerable sound, but when accelerating, the roar in the cabin becomes incredible. However, in general, this minus is more like a nitpick.
Transmission
The rigidly connected front axle is one of the main disadvantages of the car. The all-wheel drive system cannot be used on hard surfaces such as asphalt. The VSC electronic assistance system was installed only in expensive trim levels. Fans of Toyota Hilux can take advantage of the offer of the German brand Nestle, which for 3400 Euro offers a kit for installing a central differential with full locking.
A few transmission problems occur in cars whose owners have abused all-wheel drive on hard surfaces, such as asphalt. An automatically connected clutch is a privilege of more expensive modifications.
About the model
Every year, Toyota takes the leading position in terms of the number of cars sold. The brand managed to achieve such popular love thanks to a whole combination of factors. The automobile concern offers several dozen different versions of the car. The line includes premium and budget models. Drivers with any budget can get a car from Toyota.
At the same time, the company’s engineers do not make any compromises in matters of quality. The company's offerings are highly reliable. According to this indicator, the brand is noticeably ahead of many competitors. Reviews of Toyota East confirm this thesis.
Review of Toyota East: a simple and reliable car
I've been driving Ista for 3 years. The model is unpretentious, simple, but reliable. I’m not planning to sell yet, and I’m actively persuading my friends to buy the same car. The car as a whole is simple:
- 1.3 liter engine;
- 88 horsepower;
- 2002 release.
A car without bells and whistles. However, this simplicity is captivating. The trunk is very convenient. Outwardly, Ista seems small, but is capable of transporting large loads. If necessary, you can fold the rear seat, increasing the usable volume. Ideal for oversized people. The floor after folding is smooth, without corners or slopes.
In my review of Toyota East I would like to note the ease of maintenance. During the entire period of ownership, the car never failed. It always started up fine. Even frosts of -35 degrees did not cause any problems with starting.
Interior and equipment
Inside the Toyota Hilux can be different. It is enough to list the possible types of seat upholstery. The basic version is covered in vinyl. In more expensive trim levels, the materials are slightly better. And in the SR5 version there is velor on the seats. Top variations boast leather. The same is true with equipment. Basic versions have 2 airbags and ABS. There can be a total of 6 pillows. There are also copies without comfortable extras.
However, more often there are decently equipped examples with full power accessories and air conditioning. Climate control appeared only after restyling in 2008. The number of seats depends on the cabin. Some of them have a wide seat next to the driver's seat, designed for two people. But it will be cramped for two people on such a seat. In an extended cabin, you shouldn’t rely heavily on the rear seats: they’re cramped and uncomfortable. In a two-row cabin, the rear sofa is already quite comfortable.
Review of Toyota East: excellent choice
I bought the car in 2021. I drove it to Yakutia from Vladivostok on my own. There were no problems on the track. The car has only 109 horses with a 1.5-liter engine, but I had no problems with overtaking and gaining speed. In general, in my review of Toyota East I can highlight a number of advantages:
- Adequate fuel consumption (I use about 7 liters per 100 km).
- Normal work in cold weather, good stove (this is especially important for Yakutia).
- Sturdy and simple chassis.
- 16-inch wheels and good ground clearance allow you to confidently navigate any road.
- Electronic assistants to improve comfort and driving quality (climate, rear camera).
Overall I'm happy with the car. I've been driving it for less than 12 months and nothing has broken yet. If any difficulties arise, I will correct the review.
Freight transportation
In terms of cargo capacity, the Hilux falls into the middle class. In the back it is capable of carrying up to 800 kg of cargo and pulling a trailer weighing up to 2250 kg. In fact, this is not very much. The rear-wheel drive 2WD modification takes even less. But you shouldn’t count on it, since it is poorly adapted for our conditions.
Technical characteristics of Toyota Ist
| Year of issue | 2002 |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Length, mm | 3855 |
| Width, mm | 1695 |
| Height, mm | 1530 |
| Number of doors | 5 |
| Number of seats | 5 |
| Trunk volume, l | 435 |
| Country of assembly | Japan |
Typical problems and malfunctions
The body has one unpleasant drawback - low corrosion resistance. Corrosion is found around the windows, doors and cargo area lid. For frequent off-road trips, the frame should be additionally protected from corrosion.
Other malfunctions include problems with the generator (from 13,000 rubles), chafing of the air conditioning system pipes, wear of the supports and crosspieces of the driveshaft. Oil leaks through the front axle seals were sometimes encountered after 20-30 thousand km. Over time, the transfer case also begins to leak.
Review of Toyota Temp: shocked by reliability
I bought the car at auction 5 years ago. It was delivered to Russia in a container and transported from Vladik to his city by train. A good nimble city hatchback:
- 5 liters;
- 105 horses;
- 2010 release.
In my review of Toyota East, first of all, I want to note the reliability of the car. During the entire time I owned it, the fuel pump failed once. In cold weather it stopped pumping fuel. There were no other breakdowns. I only change consumables (oil and filters).
The ceiling seems a little low for my taste. My height is 175 cm. I don’t experience any particular problems with fit and placement, but larger drivers may experience certain difficulties.
Operation is economical. In the city it takes me about 6 liters per hundred. They almost never go on the highway; in this case, it has not yet been necessary to measure the consumption.
More: Owner reviews of Toyota Previa
Typical malfunctions of Toyota ist engines and their causes
High oil consumption is one of the main problems of the NZ series of engines. Usually, serious oil burns begin after they have driven more than 150-200 thousand km. In such cases, you have to either decarbonize or change the caps and oil scraper rings.
Unnatural sounds in 1/2NZ motors most likely indicate chain stretching, which usually occurs after a mileage of 150-200 thousand km. The problem is solved by installing a new timing chain kit.
Floating idle speeds are symptoms of contamination of the BDZ or IAC. Engine whistling is usually caused by a cracked alternator belt, and increased vibration indicates the need to replace the fuel filter and/or front engine mount. It may also be time to clean the injectors.
ICE 2NZ-FE
In addition to the indicated problems, on 1/2NZ-FE engines the oil pressure sensor often fails and the rear crankshaft oil seal leaks. The BC 1NZ-FE, unfortunately, cannot be repaired and after a mileage of 200 thousand km, the Toyota ist will have to change the engine to a contract internal combustion engine.
The 2ZR power plants are practically no different from the units of the 1ZR series, with the exception of the crankshaft and connecting rod-piston group, so typical malfunctions of the 2ZR-FE completely repeat the problems of the younger engine, 1ZR-FE.
High oil consumption is typical for early versions of ZR units. If the mileage is not high, then the problem is solved by filling with more viscous oil. Noises at medium speeds indicate the need to replace the timing chain tensioner.
Problems with floating speed are most often caused by a dirty throttle valve or throttle position sensor.
In addition, after 50-70 thousand km, the pump on the 2ZR-FE begins to leak. Also, the thermostat often completely fails and the VVTi valve gets stuck. However, despite the above problems, 2ZR-FE engines are quite reliable and high-quality installations that have a high rating and respect from experts.
