THE latest version of Toyota's reliable workhorse Hilux comes with changes to the suspension for a more comfortable on-road ride, while the equipment specifications have been upgraded to keep pace with connectivity, entertainment and safety.

External styling changes are aimed at ramping up the eye-appeal, particularly for the range-topping Invincible X model of this reworked eighth series of Hilux.

As before, customers can choose the Hilux body style that best suits their needs: Single Cab for a focus on work; Extra Cab, when occasional extra seating is needed; and Double Cab, with five-seat, four-door convenience, generous deck space andall-wheel drive performance and, on higher grades, what Toyota describes as SUV-like comfort and accommodation.

Prices start at £26,895 for the entry-level Active Single Cab and top out at for £40,475 for the range-topping Invincible X edition.

All versions of new Hilux apart from the entry-level Active grade come with the latest Toyota Touch 2 multimedia system, with faster software and faster response to touchscreen commands. On the Invincible X, the functionality includes satellite navigation.

Smartphone integration is another new feature, via either Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, provided as standard from Icon grade upwards.

The Hilux Invincible X's onboard infotainment extends to a powerful nine-speaker JBL Premium Sound audio system, with an eight-channel amp, 244mm subwoofer and Harman Clari-Fi technology that optimises the quality of compressed digital audio files.

The new model retains the established grade line-up of Active, Icon, Invincible and Invincible X.

Active grade models are designed and specified primarily with work duties in mind, with 17-inch steel wheels, rear diff lock and easy-care PVC upholstery (Single and Extra Cab versions). The standard spec' also provides air conditioning, automatic headlights, radio and CD player, Bluetooth and USB port.

New equipment for Active grade includes Toyota Safety Sense as standard (Pre-Collision System, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Departure Alert and Road Sign Assist. Single, Extra and Double Cab versions are available.

Icon grade introduces new 17-inch alloys, LED front fog lights, side steps, privacy glass, fabric upholstery, a reversing camera and power folding door mirrors. New features include the latest Toyota multimedia system and smartphone integration (details above), DAB radio reception and an automatic limited-slip differential.

The new Hilux Invincible builds on its current specification with front and rear parking sensors, LED rear lights, new 18-inch alloy wheels, heated front seats and windscreen wiper de-icer. Other key items include LED headlights, smart entry and push-button start and automatic air conditioning.

At the top of the range, the Hilux Invincible X is newly kitted out with a body styling package, including body mouldings, exclusive front bumper and tailgate handle.

In the cabin there is new ambient door panel lighting and a nine-speaker JBL premium audio system, in addition to dual-tone leather upholstery, heated front seats, power driver's seat adjustment, Icon, Invincible and Invincible X models are all in Double Cab format.

The Hilux's new 201bhp 2.8-litre engine is available for the Invincible and Invincible X.