Africa’s fastest man Ferdinand Omanyala made a high-profile appearance at the Kenyan launch of Toyota’s ninth-generation Hilux G9 in Nairobi on Thursday, October 29, posing alongside the latest pickup truck and sharing his enthusiasm about the new model. Ferdinand Omanyala unveiled the Toyota Hilux G9. The sprint champion, who is the car maker’s brand ambassador, congratulated Toyota on bringing the vehicle to the Kenyan market and drew a direct link between the qualities he values as an athlete and what the brand represents. “As an athlete, I understand the importance of strength, resilience, reliability, and performance. These are qualities that define my journey on the track, and they are also qualities that Toyota represents,” Omanyala said.
How much does the new Toyota Hilux G9 cost? The Hilux G9 arrives in Kenya initially as a 2.8-litre Double Cab automatic, offered in two trim levels. The Mid variant carries a price tag of KSh 7.8 million, while the High specification is priced at KSh 10.8 million. Both versions are powered by Toyota’s 2.8-litre 1GD turbo diesel engine, which delivers 150kW and 500Nm of torque. A six-speed automatic gearbox handles power delivery, with Eco, Normal and Sport driving modes available to suit different conditions. Off-road capability comes courtesy of a four-wheel-drive system, Multi-Terrain Select, rear differential lock and Downhill Assist Control. With 312mm of ground clearance, a payload capacity of roughly one tonne and a towing rating of 3,500kg, the truck is clearly built for serious work. Toyota puts fuel consumption at around 12 kilometres per litre from the 80-litre tank. What features does the interior offer? Inside, the Mid model comes fitted with an eight-inch touchscreen, wireless charging, cruise control and an eight-speaker audio setup.
Buyers who opt for the High variant get a larger 12.3-inch infotainment display, leather seats, a nine-speaker premium sound system, an electrically adjustable driver’s seat and a 360-degree camera. Both specifications include dual-zone automatic climate control, tyre-pressure monitoring, an electric parking brake and power-folding mirrors, giving the G9 a noticeably more refined feel compared to its predecessors. Omanyala shared several photos alongside the new Hilux at the launch event, marking a notable moment for one of Kenya’s biggest sporting names.
