The What Van? Road Test: Toyota Hilux Invincible X (2018)

Date: Monday, June 24, 2019 | Author: Steve Banner

HILUX INVCcab

Interior and equipment

While the all-black interior is undoubtedly meant to be stylish, it can feel a little gloomy, and the digital clock that sits at the top of the fascia looks a bit like a stuck-on aftermarket afterthought.

By contrast, the tablet-style touch-screen that controls Toyota’s Touch 2 Bluetooth-enabled multimedia system sits snugly in the centre of the dash rather than projecting awkwardly above it, as is too often the case. Satnav is included in the Invincible X deal, and the touchscreen also shows the images from the rear-view camera when reverse is engaged.

A USB port is fitted and the steering wheel plays host to remote controls for the DAB radio.

The instrument binnacle has received a revamp, with white dials and a multi-info display with an Invincible X animation that starts whenever the ignition is switched on. Unfortunately, some of the chrome trim creates distracting reflections in the outside mirrors.

A power heater switch ensures the cab warms up more quickly at the start of a chilly day, and heated front seats are fitted. So is air-conditioning.

The driver’s seat is electrically adjustable for reach and rake while the steering column is adjusted manually for reach and height.

In-cab storage facilities include a roomy, lockable glovebox – cooled to stop your chocolate bar melting – and a deep lidded bin between the front seats that harbours a 220V socket.

There are two 12V power points on the dash.

Slim bins are mounted on all four doors, each of which has a can holder. There are two cupholders between the front seats plus a tray for small change. Look up, and you will see a compartment for your sunglasses just above the windscreen.

Electric windows are fitted all round and the heated exterior rear-view mirrors are electrically adjustable. They flip inwards by pressing a switch.

Driver, front passenger, front side and curtain airbags are installed along with a driver’s knee airbag.

While the front seats are comfortable enough, the rear ones are less so, with excessively firm back rests and limited legroom. At least they all boast headrests and lap-and-diagonal belts. If the middle seat is vacant then the back can be folded down and used as an armrest, complete with a couple of cupholders.

Along with map pockets (remember road maps?) the backs of the front seats boast hooks you can hang your Friday night bag of takeaway food on.

As for electronic safety systems, ABS with emergency brakeforce distribution and brake assist, vehicle stability control (VSC), hill-start assist control, and trailer sway control are all fitted. Ventilated disc brakes are on the front wheels but the rears are equipped with drum brakes.

The impressive-looking 18in alloy wheels are shod with 265/60 R18 Bridgestone Dueler H/T tyres. Turning to the suspension, a double wishbone set-up helps support the truck at the front while leaf springs and a rigid axle do the honours at the back.

Hydraulic power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering offers a 6.4m turning circle kerb to kerb, expanding to 6.7m wall to wall.

What Van? Britain's biggest and best van buyers' guide