History provides a record of iconic figures, events and ‘things’ in an attempt to preserve the memory, status and essence of the subject at hand. Some call it iconic, others remarkable, memorable or even epic. At Toyota we simply call it Legend.
The Hilux nameplate has obtained legendary status globally, forged by adventures, expeditions, quests and even over-ambitious television shows. The humble bakkie in ‘4×4’ guise has reached all corners of the globe and gained a cult-like following in the process.
In South Africa the story is no different, first launched in 1969, Hilux has firmly rooted itself in the SA motoring landscape and become the best-selling bakkie. As a tribute to the success and rich heritage of Hilux, Toyota South Africa first created a bespoke limited-edition model – aptly named Legend 35 – in 2004. This was followed by the Legend 40, built on the global IMV platform, and Legend 45 in 2009 and 2014 respectively. The Legend 45 model was extremely well received by the market and remains a standout in the Hilux lineage.
With the calendar rolling over to 2019, the time for a new Legend has arrived – to celebrate 50 years of local Hilux. Welcome Legend 50!
Exterior Enhancements
The front upper and lower grille has received the full black-out treatment (in gloss finish), with matching stylised fog-lamp surrounds. A stylish silver accent line frames the vertical fog-lamp garnish with matching silver lower bumper guard. Legend 50 badging, offset to the left, rounds off the front façade, complemented by the LED headlamps incorporating daytime running lights (DRL).
The side profile is enhanced by black side protective mouldings (X/C and D/C), chrome exterior mirrors and door handles as well as black side steps. A customised rear styling bar with matching Legend 50 badging and a textured, heavy-duty tonneau cover add rugged appeal. Sleek satin-silver roof rails (X/C and D/C) elevate Legend 50’s presence.
In the rear, a black rear bumper, smoked taillamps and tailgate badging, complete the visual package. A low-profile towbar is fitted as standard – enhancing utility.
The wheel and tyre package consists of Legend 50-specific two-tone 18” alloy wheels shod with 265-60-R18 all-terrain tyres.
Inviting Interior
The interior space of the Hilux Legend 50 invites occupants to enjoy the journey ahead. Black leather trim (on X/C and D/C) with blue perforation and stitching create a premium feel. A stylish chrome accent strip runs across the dashboard, offset by gloss-black panel trim. Branded silver door scuff plates and carpet set, lend both a protective and aesthetic hand.
The instrument cluster features stylish white-faced dials with orange needles and a cog-shaped motif. A 4.2” TFT Multi-information Display with steering wheel control, relays a variety of information to the driver (including audio, compass, navigation prompts, trip info and fuel consumption).
Multi-media Upgrade
The infotainment system has also been upgraded, featuring an enlarged 8” (20.3cm) display (now flush mounted and integrated into the dashboard) with additional rotary dials for volume and tune functions. The unit also features key-function shortcut buttons, touchscreen interface, on-board satellite navigation, DVD, USB, Bluetooth and Aux interfaces. Steering wheel operability and a reverse camera adds comfort and convenience.
Safety and Specification
All Legend 50 models are based on the Raider specification grade and therefore feature a comprehensive specification list. Smart entry (keyless) and push-start ignition functionality now join the specification inventory on Xtra Cab and Double Cab Legend 50 models.
All Legend models come with a full suite of active and passive safety features – including driver, passenger, knee and curtain airbags (body-type dependent). ABS, VSC, EBD, Brake Assist and Hill-assist Control round off the electronic safety aids.
Model Line-up
The Legend 50 package has been applied to 100% of Raider models across all three body shapes (Single-, Xtra- and Double Cab). All S/C and X/C Legend 50 models are powered by the formidable 2.8 GD-6 engine delivering 130 kW and 420Nm (450Nm on Auto variants). These can be paired with both 4×2 (Raised Body) or 4×4 drivetrains.
Double Cab Legend 50 models are available with either the 2.8 GD-6 or 4.0 V6 (exclusively 4×4 auto) powertrain, whilst the diesels can be had in either 4×2 or 4×4 configuration.
| Body Type | Model | Price |
| Single Cab | Hilux SC 2.8 GD-6 RB Legend 50 MT | R 472 000 |
| Hilux SC 2.8 GD-6 RB Legend 50 AT | R 491 100 | |
| Hilux SC 2.8 GD-6 4X4 Legend 50 MT | R 537 700 | |
| Hilux SC 2.8 GD-6 4X4 Legend 50 AT | R 557 100 | |
| Xtra Cab | Hilux XC 2.8 GD-6 RB Legend 50 MT | R 511 100 |
| Hilux XC 2.8 GD-6 RB Legend 50 AT | R 530 200 | |
| Hilux XC 2.8 GD-6 4X4 Legend 50 MT | R 578 800 | |
| Hilux XC 2.8 GD-6 4X4 Legend 50 AT | R 598 200 | |
| Double Cab | Hilux DC 2.8 GD-6 RB Legend 50 MT | R 579 100 |
| Hilux DC 2.8 GD-6 RB Legend 50 AT | R 598 500 | |
| Hilux DC 2.8 GD-6 4X4 Legend 50 MT | R 647 600 | |
| Hilux DC 2.8 GD-6 4X4 Legend 50 AT | R 668 800 | |
| Hilux DC 4.0 V6 4X4 Legend 50 AT | R 712 100 |
Warranty and Maintenance
All Hilux models come with a 3-year or 100 000 km warranty. A 9-services or 90 000 km service plan is standard on all models. Customers can also purchase extended service plans via their Toyota dealer.
Key Performance in Kinsey Report
The Hilux double cab, in automatic transmission guise, walked away with the gold medal in the just-released 2019 Kinsey Report. The single-cab model sampled, achieved bronze status, while the Fortuner SUV once again claimed victory in its category.
** Fortuner Infotainment System Upgrade**
Fortuner 2.8 GD-6 models also receive the infotainment system upgrade – inheriting an enlarged display (from 6 to 8”). A change to traditional rotary dials for volume and tune functions, allow ease of use. The unit also features key-function shortcut buttons, touchscreen interface, on-board satellite navigation, DVD, USB, Bluetooth and Aux interfaces. Steering wheel operability and a reverse camera adds comfort and convenience.
| Body Type | Model | Price |
| Fortuner | Fortuner 2.7 VVTi RB 6AT | R 490 800 |
| Fortuner 2.4 GD-6 RB 6MT | R 509 400 | |
| Fortuner 2.4 GD-6 RB 6AT | R 529 300 | |
| Fortuner 2.4 GD-6 4X4 6AT | R 556 400 | |
| Fortuner 2.8 GD-6 RB 6MT | R 606 000 | |
| Fortuner 2.8 GD-6 RB 6AT | R 626 300 | |
| Fortuner 2.8 GD-6 4×4 6MT | R 672 100 | |
| Fortuner 2.8 GD-6 4×4 6AT | R 692 700 | |
| Fortuner 4.0 V6 4×4 6AT | R 730 200 |
