Toyota , Hilux , N80/N90/N100/N110

Engine and Performance

The Toyota Hilux N80 (1988-1991) was powered by a 2.0-liter 4A-GE inline-four cylinder engine producing 90 horsepower. The N90 (1991-1993) featured a 2.0-liter 4A-FE inline-four cylinder engine with 85 horsepower, while the N100 and N110 models came equipped with a 2.4-liter 3R-E inline-four cylinder engine producing 95 horsepower.

Transmission and Drive

All Hilux models from this era were available with a 5-speed manual transmission as standard, with an optional 4-speed automatic transmission available on certain trims. Rear-wheel drive was the norm, but four-wheel drive systems were also offered in various configurations to suit different needs.

Interior and Comfort

The cabin of the Toyota Hilux N80/N90/N100/N110 featured a simple yet functional design. The dashboard was plain with basic gauges, while the seats were cloth-trimmed and provided decent support. Ample space for passengers and cargo was available, making it an ideal vehicle for both leisure and commercial use.

Exterior Design

The exterior of these Hilux models was characterized by a boxy shape with a flat front grille, angular headlights, and rectangular taillights. A distinctive feature of the N80/N90 generation was the placement of the fuel filler on the driver's side, which later shifted to the rear in subsequent generations.

Suspension and Handling

The Hilux employed a conventional leaf spring suspension setup at the rear, combined with MacPherson struts at the front for improved stability. While it was designed for heavy-duty use, its handling could be somewhat harsh over rough roads, particularly when empty.

Safety Features

The Toyota Hilux N80/N90/N100/N110 lacked many modern safety features as standard equipment but could be optionally equipped with a rearview mirror and sometimes, at the discretion of local markets, airbags or anti-lock brakes (ABS).

Dimensions and Capacity

• Length: 4,935 mm
• Width: 1,795 mm
• Height: 1,745 mm
• Wheelbase: 2,950 mm
• Max Payload: Up to 750 kg (depending on the model and variant)
• Towing Capacity: Approximately 2.5 tons

Trim Levels

These models were available in various trim levels across different markets, including the base ST, mid-range SR, and higher-spec Limited, with varying degrees of comfort and luxury features.

Availability and Discontinuation

The N80 was produced until 1991, followed by the N90 which lasted until 1993. The N100 (and its variant, the N110) continued production through the late 1990s, offering a more refined version of the original design for an extended period.

Special Editions and Variants

Special editions and variants were produced over the years to commemorate certain milestones or appeal to niche markets. These included models like the SR5, which was known for its sporty styling cues and upgraded features compared to standard trim levels.

Maintenance and Reliability

The Toyota Hilux has a reputation for being robust and reliable. The engines were generally easy to maintain with simple mechanical components, but their longevity could vary depending on usage and maintenance practices.

Market Impact and Competition

The Toyota Hilux was one of the most popular vehicles in its class during this period. It faced competition from other pickup trucks like the Ford Ranger, Nissan Navara, and Holden Rodeo, among others, in various markets.

Overall Assessment

The N80/N90/N100/N110 generation of the Toyota Hilux represented a transitional phase for the model line. While they continued to emphasize durability and simplicity, they also introduced design elements that would become more prominent in subsequent generations. Despite being somewhat outdated by the end of their production cycle, these models remained faithful to the brand's reputation for building rugged vehicles capable of withstanding heavy use.