It scarcely feels as if 15 years have rushed by since the first Toyota Hilux Legend appeared in 2004 to celebrate what was – then – a true milestone in local automotive history, namely 35 years on the market and now, there is Legend 50!

The Legend 35 was followed by the Legend 40, built on the global IMV platform and Legend 45 in 2009 and 2014 respectively.

The Toyota Hilux sealed the second quarter of 2019 with its highest ever recorded monthly sales total in South Africa. The June total of 4 770 is 35 units more than the previous highest total of 4 335 which was recorded in 2011. Of the Hilux models sold last month, 1 885 were double cabs, 1 648 Xtra cabs and 1 237 single cabs.

Cause to celebrate indeed and the new Legend 50 sees the front upper and lower grille getting 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.

At the rear, a black rear bumper, smoked taillamps and tailgate badging, complete the visual package. A low-profile towbar is fitted as standard.

The wheel and tyre package consists of Legend 50-specific two-tone 18-inch alloy wheels shod with 265-60-R18 all-terrain tyres.

The interior space sees Black leather trim (on X/C and D/C) with blue perforationl. A 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 white-faced dials with orange needles and a cog-shaped motif. A 4,2-inch 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).

The infotainment system has also been upgraded, featuring an enlarged 8-inch 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.

All Legend 50 models are based on the Raider specification grade and feature 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 crash bags (body-type dependent), anti-lock braking, VSC, EBD, Brake Assist and Hill-assist Controls.

The Legend 50 package has been applied to all 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 2.8 GD-6 engine delivering 130 kW and 420 Nm. 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.

All Hilux models come with a 3-year/100 000 km warranty. A 9-services/90 000 km service plan is standard on all models.