While I don't think newer HiLux's won't quite stand the TopGear test, BUT they are indeed made FOR THIS market (versions sold in Latin America are actually built in Argentina), as well as Africa and Asia.
A year ago I got a one year old HiLux, the high neat looking version but 2x4, and with the 2.4L diesel engine... stick shift (manual/mecanica).
Delta Commercial (Santo Domingo & Santiago) sells them with a whooping 3 year/80K km TRANSFERABLE warranty! Mine had 15K Km on it an during this year I put another 15K on it. Only one minor issue, a wheel bearing went noisy and was replaced under warranty... and still I got another year or 50K km to go with warranty.
It's got killer air, plenty of power (turbo) and enough room (double cab) and I put a hard top on the back.
I take good care of my ride but I expect it to take good care of me too (which has included crossing the Yassica river back and forth).
Built in "road authority": Here the system or right of way is easy; the bigger and more threatening the vehicle has right of way. Higher vehicles have preference too. Given, the HiLux will not give you absolute right of way... but it sure stands above most cars, "muertoahoritas" and even many jeepetas (pickups just have that damage creating look to them). I have many less "deals" per mile than I remember having while riding a small 4 door Hiunday rental when I first got here.
Oh... runs 47km/28mls per Gallon (about 8.2 Liters of diesel per 100km)
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... J-D.