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Unveiling the Toyota Hilux GR Sport: A Review of Power, Performance, and Off-Roading Prowess The Toyota Hilux, traditionally recognized as a utilitarian pickup for construction sites and heavy-duty road use, takes an unexpected turn with the introduction of the Toyota Hilux GR Sport. This variant, designed to tap into the expanding lifestyle market, brings a blend of style and mechanical enhancements, showcasing equal enthusiasm for off-roading adventures as it does for utilitarian duties. Let’s delve into the details. Bold Aesthetics and Design The Toyota Hilux GR Sport presents itself as a substantial truck, boasting a high-riding stance reminiscent of a Fortuner SUV, coupled with a flat bed at the rear, extending its length to 5,320mm—surpassing even the Land Cruiser. The distinctive dual-tone vinyl application on the door bottoms enhances its visual appeal without being overly ostentatious, passing the test of vanity even in a city known for glitz and glamour. Details such as powerful LED headlamp clusters, a trademarked 3D front grille, and a specially designed front bumper with a robust skid plate contribute to the GR Sport’s commanding presence. The wide arch extensions accommodate 265mm wide tires, emphasizing its off-road design. The 17-inch alloy wheels, though downsized from 18 inches for the 2024 model year, enhance sand floatability, making it unmistakably distinctive on the road. Interior Evolution The Hilux GR Sport’s cabin reflects a shift from the traditional utilitarian approach to a more comfortable space, resembling an SUV’s interior. While not luxurious, it offers modern features such as analogue instrument counters with a central digital display, an 8-inch infotainment screen with user-friendly physical buttons, and a more ergonomic shift lever. The 3-spoke steering wheel, wrapped in GR-Sport-specific leather with contrast stitching, and seat upholstery combining suede and faux leather add a touch of sophistication. Convenience is addressed with a push-start button, accessible hazard button, and user-friendly physical A/C controls. The front cabin is generously spacious, but the rear cabin may feel slightly constrained in terms of knee space. Powertrain and Performance Equipped with a 4.0L V6 engine with 235 bhp and 375 Nm torque, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission, the Hilux GR Sport positions itself as a contender among larger competitors. While not as turbocharged, it exhibits purposeful acceleration for traffic maneuvering and highway overtaking. The off-road capabilities shine with a 323mm ground clearance, groovy tires, switchable four-wheel drive, and an automatic limited-slip differential. On-road, the GR Sport offers a commanding view but introduces some road and wind noise into the cabin. Its ride is described as stiff, emphasizing its truck-like characteristics. Features and Practicality Despite being a pickup truck, the Hilux GR Sport boasts conveniences such as a 6-speaker audio system, wireless phone charger, and dual-zone air conditioning. Off-road features include downhill assist control, Active Traction Control (A-TRAC), Hill Start Assist, a rear bed-liner, rear-view camera, parking sensors, and an on-board air compressor. Verdict The Toyota Hilux GR Sport emerges as a robust off-roader with a focus on functionality and reliability. It distinguishes itself with rugged aesthetics, a potent powertrain, and off-roading prowess. While it may lack some refinements found in more sophisticated off-roaders, it compensates with its back-to-basics appeal and enduring reliability, making it a formidable choice for both adventure seekers and those seeking everyday utility.

Selfdrive.ae Foresees 20% Surge in Car Subscriptions and 10% Increase in Rentals for 2024 Selfdrive.ae, the leading mobility tech platform, is predicting a 20 percent rise in demand for car subscriptions and a 10 percent growth in car rentals in the upcoming year, 2024. The company emphasizes the unmatched flexibility offered by car rentals, catering to various needs such as short business trips, weekend getaways, or family vacations without the long-term commitments associated with ownership. Soham Shah, CEO of Selfdrive.ae, highlighted the notable shift in consumer preferences, with an increasing recognition of the advantages of car rentals over ownership. He stated that Selfdrive is strategically positioned to meet this growing demand by providing innovative solutions that redefine how individuals approach on-demand mobility. Currently overseeing assets exceeding $1 billion on its platforms, Selfdrive has announced an exclusive app offer available until the end of the month. Accessible only through the Selfdrive.ae mobile app, customers can enjoy a flat $50 discount on the total amount for monthly bookings of selected cars within the Selfdrive.ae fleet. To avail of this exclusive offer, customers can download the Selfdrive.ae app, explore eligible cars, and apply the promo code during the booking process. As the largest car subscription and car rental mobility platform operating in the UAE, Qatar, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Oman, the UK, and Ireland, Selfdrive collaborates with top car manufacturers and dealerships to manage a robust fleet ready to serve various mobility needs. Whether for a day, a month, or a year, the Selfdrive mobile app provides access to premium mobility solutions.

Vehicles offer advanced features with safety and entertainment options The rental car industry is undergoing a transformative shift as entry-level sedans and mid-level Chinese SUVs gain immense popularity due to their impressive features and cost-effectiveness compared to traditional manufacturers. These vehicles are not only offering an array of advanced features but also capturing the hearts of customers, reshaping the landscape of the car rental market. In recent years, SUVs have emerged as the preferred choice in the car rental market, showcasing exceptional performance and versatility. These vehicles come packed with a wide range of features that appeal to renters looking for both safety and entertainment options. Unlike traditional manufacturers, many of these entry-level sedans and SUVs offer comparable safety features, with some top-tier models even surpassing their traditional counterparts in terms of digital connectivity and in-car entertainment. What sets them apart is their affordability. These vehicles are available at lower rental rates, thanks to their lower purchase costs. This affordability factor is driving their rising popularity in the market, making them an attractive choice for cost-conscious consumers. “It’s worth noting that Chinese manufacturers are poised to dominate the automotive market soon. Their vehicles are increasingly known to surprise you with its superior quality that can come very close to European or Japanese manufacturers. Chinese manufacturers have significantly improved their overall build quality, comfort, luxury, and vehicle features, including safety components. Their availability at highly competitive prices makes them the preferred choice for both entry-level and mid-level buyers,” said Soham Shah, CEO of Selfdrive.ae. The coming years are expected to witness Chinese manufacturers establishing a dominant presence and garnering greater acceptance among consumers. This market shift is likely to bring about significant disruptions in the automotive industry, reshaping the way people perceive and choose rental vehicles. As the market evolves, Selfdrive.ae seeks to provide its customers with a diverse fleet of vehicles that cater to their needs and preferences. The company continues to closely monitor industry trends and adapt to the changing landscape to ensure that its customers have access to the latest and most attractive options in the rental car market