It has shown a dual cab Rogue with a wider body on wider front and rear track (140mm) and an updated suspension package that includes a 20mm lift. The front end’s bottom arms are longer, the shock absorbers are mounted at an adjusted angle and the front anti-roll roll bar is also a new, longer version.

The rear of the Rogue is also modified, with the axle length extended, dampers moved closer to the wheels, and a rear stabiliser bar installed to improve cornering stability.

Toyota says the suspension enhancements have enhanced roll rigidity by 20 per cent for improved steering feel, particularly when cornering or changing lanes.

In a HiLux first, ventilated disc brakes will replace the model’s drum brakes. This change is limited to the top range models.

Other changes for the flagship Rogue include 17-inch front disc brakes (one inch larger) and those wider guards and front body extension.

Both Ford and Nissan have ute models that act as performance flagships: the Raptor and the locally enhanced Pro4X Warrior.

Australian media are speculating that the existence of these rivals, together with Toyota’s motorsport successes in the gruelling Dakar rally may point toward a more powerful V6 version of the HiLux as an ‘apex’ performance model: the GR DKR Hilux T1+ runs a 298kW/660Nm 3.5 litre twin-turbo V6 based on the one used in the 300 Series Land Cruiser.

In New Zealand, widebody HiLuxes can be ordered now for end of year delivery. Toyota’s ‘driveaway’ price is $62,990 with a clean car fee of $2990.00. The pricing includes all on road costs: WOF, registration, 1000kms of RUC, a full tank of fuel, Toyota Care Service Advantage fixed price servicing package, floor mats and a three year or 100,000 km warranty.