Rugged in name and in nature, this Toyota HiLux wears its meanness with consummate ease. The chrome of the SR5 gives way to black metal with a solid bash plate, imposing front and rear bumpers and proper sliders (rock rails) paving the way for the Rugged X’s off-road intent.
The two red recovery points, fore and aft, are an invaluable companion on off-road adventures and look good, too, while the LED light bar just below the grille is fabulous at night.
Add the height of the snorkel, the decorative decal on the bonnet and the chunky sports bar on top of the tub and the Rugged X certainly makes for a satisfyingly substantial package.
Black is the colour of choice on the inside of the Rugged X and although it satisfies the go-hard, no-nonsense theme it does make for a slightly heavy feel.
The sweeping dash helps to break things up a bit and the switchgear is somewhat interesting, but like the rest of Toyota’s dual-cab range functionality wins out over form.