Toyota has officially pulled the covers off the all-new, ninth-generation Hilux, and it’s a milestone moment for one of the toughest names in motoring history. The legendary pick-up—celebrated for hauling everything from hay bales to hopes of survival in the outback—has gone multi-path. And that doesn’t mean it’s lost its way. It means there’s now a Hilux for everyone, from diesel die-hards to electric evangelists, and even hydrogen dreamers.
This new Hilux lineup includes the first-ever battery-electric Hilux (BEV), a Hybrid 48V version aimed squarely at Europe, diesel and petrol options for the East, and the pièce de résistance—an upcoming hydrogen fuel-cell variant due in 2028. In short: the Hilux family just got electrified, diversified, and future-proofed.
Tough Just Got Techy
The Hilux’s new look shouts “muscle with manners.” Toyota calls the design theme “Tough and Agile”, blending the brute confidence of a bouncer with the poise of a yoga instructor. The grille (or lack thereof, on the BEV) sports the proud TOYOTA lettering, and new deck steps and side steps ensure you don’t look awkward climbing in.
Inside, the transformation is equally striking. The cabin borrows finesse from the new Land Cruiser—think 12.3-inch digital cockpit, panoramic view monitors, wireless charging, and enough USB ports to run a small office. Electric power steering makes its Hilux debut, making it easier to park and harder to wrestle.
The Electric Invincible
The Hilux BEV isn’t just a battery on wheels; it’s still very much a Hilux—body-on-frame, all-wheel drive, and engineered for abuse. It packs a 59.2 kWh lithium-ion battery and dual eAxles delivering 205 Nm up front and 268.6 Nm at the rear, proving that quiet can still be mighty.
Its 240 km WLTP range might not conquer continents, but Toyota promises fast charging to keep downtime minimal. Payload? 715 kg. Towing? 1.6 tonnes. Wading depth? Just as deep as your old diesel. In other words, it’ll still pull your trailer, climb your hill, and splash your neighbour’s puddle—all without tailpipe guilt.
The Hybrid Workhorse
The Hilux Hybrid 48V, meanwhile, is Toyota’s sweet spot between old-school torque and new-school tech. With its 2.8-litre engine and compact hybrid system tucked neatly under the rear seats, it delivers smoother acceleration and better efficiency while maintaining that one-tonne payload and 3.5-tonne towing swagger.
For off-roaders, Toyota adds Multi-Terrain Select and Multi-Terrain Monitor, because even adventurers need a little digital help sometimes.
For Those Who Still Smell Diesel in Their Dreams
Not everyone’s ready to plug in, and Toyota gets that. So, Eastern Europe still gets the familiar rumble of internal combustion—with the 2.8-litre diesel and 2.7-litre petrol engines staying on the roster. Somewhere, a farmer just breathed a sigh of relief.
Hydrogen: The Next Adventure
And then there’s the wild card—Hilux Fuel Cell Electric, confirmed for 2028. It’s Toyota’s way of saying, “We’re not done experimenting.” Powered by hydrogen, it promises silent strength and zero emissions, waiting for infrastructure to catch up. When it does, your pick-up will be cleaner than your conscience.
From Dakar deserts to city streets, the Hilux has always been more than a vehicle—it’s a badge of resilience. Now, with battery packs, hybrid systems, and even hydrogen cells under its belt, it’s stepping confidently into the future—without forgetting how to get dirty.
Toyota’s all-new Hilux: tougher, smarter, and more electrified than ever. Still ready to outlive you—and now, your grandchildren’s carbon footprint too.
