A phenomenon of UK sales in recent years has been the growth in the double cab pick up market. The UK market for all pick ups, single to double cab, two wheel drive to four wheel drive grew by 347 per cent between 1998 and the end of 2005. This year sales are increasing still further.When you consider that the UK's new car market is around 2.4 million new vehicles each year, the 34,314 pick up sales in the UK last year is really only a drop in the ocean but the growth potential is not being overlooked by manufacturers who are busy bringing new, updated and more sophisticated vehicles to market.Mitsubishi is the clear market leader in this sector with 80 per cent of its sales being for high value, technically advanced double cabs used as alternatives to 4x4s and SUVs. They have found favour with private buyers, and because of the personal tax and VAT reclaim advantages that apply to commercial vehicles, importantly company car user choosers and businesses have all added to the demand.Nissan and Isuzu have also updated their model ranges and Ford will be launching their larger and more powerful pick up Ranger models soon.Not to be left out, Toyota, once the market leader for UK pick up sales, has recently introduced its sixth generation Hilux. Like its competitors the Hilux is available in single and double cab forms with two and four wheel drive options depending on which model is chosen.The Hilux has a worldwide reputation for ruggedness and they can be found in virtually every corner of the world. The Hilux is sold in 164 different markets worldwide with more than 12 million sales to date and it ranks as Toyota's second best selling model behind the Corolla.The new Hilux, now in its sixth generation, is considerably larger than the previous models, not least of all in length, which has increased by nearly a foot. The extra length is mainly in the wheelbase which gives more interior space, a better ride and improved passenger comfort. However where it matters, in the load bed, the capacity has been increased by 25 per cent for single cab models and 30 per cent for double cabs.One of the big complaints about the new Mitsubishi L200 double cab models is their smaller load bed and whilst it still appeals to recreational users it does not have the appeal it once enjoyed with commercial users where load space is the priority and increased interior space is a bonus.The new Hilux models have a new ladder frame chassis which is 45 per cent stiffer than the previous models. They have better aerodynamics and much more modern styling. Following Mitsubishi and Nissan, the new Toyota Hilux has a much roomier interior, plenty of storage space and a car-like specification. The double cab has four passenger doors and seating for five passengers. It has car-style controls, including an easier to use central handbrake. The only real letdown for the Hilux over the L200 and Nissan Navara is that the middle passenger in the rear seating position only has a lap seatbelt; other competitors have a full three point and there is no driver's seat height adjustment seatbelt.The Hilux double cab is available with three grades of specification but all models have air conditioning, electric windows and remote control central locking. ABS braking and driver and front passenger airbags are also standard fit. The sound system varies between each specification.In the technical department the Hilux has a new double wishbone front suspension which improves the road handling characteristics. The rear suspension still has leaf springs for durability and to allow for heavy loads to be carried but this does give a harsh ride for passengers especially if the vehicle is unladen.The Hilux scores heavily over the L200 because all models have a rear differential lock, a must for those venturing off road especially if the vehicle is being used for towing. Four wheel drive is no good if you lose traction through the rear wheels. Having a differential lock is, I think, a must for such vehicles.The move from two to four wheel drive and back to two wheel drive can be done on the move.The most disappointing element of the Hilux is the low power 2.5-litre D-4D turbodiesel engine. The power output of just 101bhp is simply not in keeping with what other manufacturers are offering these days when up to 160bhp is quite normal. The torque output of 260Nm for four wheel drive models from 1,600rpm is acceptable and it pulls well and drives with flexibility at low speeds but once on open roads it gives a lacklustre performance. This engine would be a perfect case to benefit from the power boost kits just introduced by Owen Developments. They are specialists at getting more safe and useable power out of petrol and diesel engines and are the brains behind similar power upgrades for Mitsubishi products, everything from Lancer Evolutions to L200 pick ups. The new power upgrade for this diesel engine raises the output from 101bhp to 120bhp and it raises the torque as well. This kit costs £525 plus VAT according to the latest press releases I've seen from them. I've driven both the L200 and Isuzu pick ups fitted with their power upgrades and they really are excellent.The Hilux may lose out to the L200 and Nissan Navara as far as performance goes but where it matters in practical load area carrying space, even for recreational users, the Hilux is the winner. The load bed is wider and longer than previous Hilux models and the sides are deeper so the payload capacity is 1,085kg and the volume 0.983kg. The braked towing capacity is 2,250kg.On the road vehicle prices (excluding VAT as it is a commercial vehicle) start from £12,145 and range up to £17,245. My test model, the Hilux double cab 4WD in HL3 specification form costs £15,745 making it pretty good value for money. With slightly better engine performance it would give the L200 and Navara competitors a more serious run for their money. It scores on passenger and load carrying practicalities though. I gather Toyota have the power thing in hand and a more powerful engine option will be offered fairly soon.MILESTONES: Toyota Hilux Double Cab 4WD HL3. Price: on the road excluding VAT: £15,745. Engine: 2.5-litre, D-4D four cylinder, common-rail direct injection turbodiesel, 101bhp and 260Nm of torque from 1,600rpm. Performance: As it is a commercial vehicle Toyota, in common with some other manufacturers, do not publish official figures but top speed is around 100mph, 0-60mph in 18.2 seconds with a combined cycle fuel consumption of 34mpg. Payload 1,085kg, towing capacity braked 2,250. Typical insurance group: 9For: Sensible conservative styling, large load area, good interior passenger space, good specification, pleasant to drive. Against: Lack-lustre engine, driver's seat adjustment, harsh ride unladen.
