TOYOTA is upgrading its Hilux pick-up truck with a more powerful engine, more technology and a new rugged look.

The new model will be on the road in November and priced from £34,925 for a version powered by the current 2.4-litre diesel or £35,400 for one with the new 2.8-litre block.

Two trim grades will be available - Invincible and Invincible X - with the higher specification models using the new engine exclusively and priced from £38,975.

Automatic transmissions are available on both engines and carry a £1,500 premium with the range topping out at £40,475 for a 2.8-litre Invincible X automatic.

The new 2.8-litre turbodiesel engine develops 201bhp - 53bhp more than the 2.4 - which enables the Hilux automatic double cab to accelerate from 0 to 60mph in 10 seconds, some 2.7 seconds quicker than before.

Toyota says that the engine comes with a stop/start system to aid economy although official fuel figures have still to be published.

The new Hilux has been restyled at the front with a chunky bumper arrangement which stretches completely around the grille as well as redesigned LED lights clusters front and rear.

Inside, there is redesigned instrument cluster and on higher grade versions an eight-inch display screen mounted on the centre console.

Other features include an automatic limited-slip differential, a JBL nine-speaker premium audio system and front and rear parking sensors.

Changes have also been made to the suspension set up for better ride and handling and the Hilux now has a 29-degree approach angle, a 26-degree departure angle and 293mm ground clearance on Double Cab models.

It is capable of wading to a depth of 700mm and the Hilux can carry loads of up to a tonne with a towing limit of 3.5 tonnes.

Toyota Is also making its Safety Sense protection system stand across the Hilux range which includes collision avoidance, adaptive cruise control, lane departure and traffic sign recognition.