Few vehicles inspire as much confidence as the Toyota Hilux. Trusted across Africa for decades, it has become a symbol of strength, reliability, and resilience. Now, Eswatini drivers can experience an exclusive take on this icon with the Hilux Legend 55, a special-edition bakkie that blends toughness with modern comfort and advanced safety.
A Legend Reimagined
The Hilux has long been a staple for Eswatini’s motorists, equally at home on the farm, in construction fleets, or parked outside urban offices. Toyota’s Legend 55 makes an instant statement with its blacked-out grille, mirrors, and alloy wheels, paired with bold badging and a striking front fascia, separating it from the standard Hilux range. It’s as rugged as ever, but with refined details that give it a premium presence on the road.
Performance That Delivers
Under the bonnet, the Legend 55 is powered by Toyota’s 2.8-litre GD-6 turbo diesel engine, producing 150 kW and up to 500 Nm of torque with the six-speed automatic transmission, or 420 Nm in the manual. These figures ensure it can handle heavy payloads and tough climbs with ease.
With a 3500 kg braked towing capacity (in the Xtra Cab variant and 2750 kg in double cab spec) and a payload of nearly 1 ton (780kg in Xtra Cab and 835kg in double cab), the Hilux Legend 55 is a true workhorse. Built on Toyota’s ladder-frame chassis and equipped with robust suspension, it’s equally at home hauling trailers on rural roads as it is tackling rugged off-road trails.
Double and Xtra Cab Flexibility
To meet the diverse needs of motorists, the Hilux Legend 55 is offered in both Double Cab and Xtra Cab (extended cab) configurations.
- The Double Cab variant combines strength with practicality, offering seating for up to five passengers along with its formidable load and towing capacity. It’s ideal for families, businesses needing crew space, or those who want a vehicle that works hard during the week and doubles as a leisure companion on weekends.
- The Xtra Cab option provides two-door access with additional space behind the front seats for tools, equipment, or personal gear. This makes it especially attractive for small business operators and outdoor enthusiasts who value utility and versatility.
Both variants are available with a choice of a six-speed manual gearbox or a six-speed automatic transmission, ensuring buyers can select the option that best suits their driving style and needs.
Comfort Meets Utility
Step into the cabin and the Legend 55 surprises with premium finishes, leather trim, and a modern infotainment unit with a premium 9-speaker JBL sound system. Touchscreen controls, smartphone connectivity, and a reverse camera make everyday driving simpler. Dual-zone climate control, multiple charging ports, and steering-mounted controls ensure comfort and convenience, whether on long drives or busy workdays.
Advanced Safety Features
Beyond Toyota’s standard build quality, the Legend 55 introduces advanced driver-assist features that raise its safety credentials. Adaptive cruise control automatically adjusts speed to maintain a safe following distance on highways, reducing fatigue on long drives. Lane departure alert monitors road markings and gently warns drivers if the vehicle drifts unintentionally, enhancing peace of mind.
These join a suite of features including multiple airbags, ABS brakes, stability control, trailer sway control, and downhill assist, making the Legend 55 one of the safest bakkies in its class.
The Verdict
The Toyota Hilux Legend 55 isn’t just another special edition—it’s a celebration of a legendary nameplate tailored for today’s motorists. With 150 kW of power, 500 Nm of torque, impressive towing capabilities, and advanced safety tech, it blends proven strength with modern sophistication. Available in Double Cab and Xtra Cab formats, it’s as versatile as it is dependable.
For Eswatini’s farmers, contractors, entrepreneurs, and outdoor enthusiasts, the Hilux Legend 55 is more than transport—it’s a partner in progress..
