Toyota has uncovered the new generation of the legendary Hilux pickup, complete with fully electric and 48V mild hybrid diesel versions, along with a hydrogen fuel cell version due later.
On sale in Europe from December, the ninth generation of the revered and rugged pickup will solely by offered in double cab form, as driven by customer preference. It also gains a new “ tough and agile” exterior design and an uplift in interior “sensory quality”, inspired by the new Land Cruiser.
The fully electric version – the brand’s first electric pickup and a rival to the Isuzu D-Max Electric and the Maxus eTerron 9 – is expected to have “particular appeal to fleet customers seeking a pickup that combines zero-emission performance with everyday practicality, uncompromised QDR and off-road capability”.
It pairs a 59.2kWh lithium-ion battery with electric motors on both axles to deliver permanent all-wheel drive. Total power is 196hp while the front motor generates 205Nm of torque and the rear delivers 268.6Nm. Initial pre-homologation data indicates approximate figures of 715kg for the payload, and 1,600kg for the towing capacity, with a WLTP driving range of approximately 240km (150 miles).
Charging details are yet to be revealed but Toyota says it’s targeting best-in-class capabilities that will minimise vehicle downtime.
The fully electric version also comes with the Hilux’s signature body-on-frame construction and is engineered for off-road performance, including specific measures to protect the battery from damage or water ingress. Notably the wading depth is equal to the current ICE model.
The Hilux BEV also comes with a Multi-Terrain Select system that adapts vehicle performance to suit different offroad terrains using brake and torque control, equivalent to driving in L4 range in a conventionally powered vehicle.
The new Hilux will also get the 2.8D 48V mild hybrid diesel that joined the current Hilux range earlier this year. It will be the volume seller in Western Europe in the all-new generation.
The 48V mild hybrid system teams up the current-generation’s 2.8-litre turbodiesel engine with an electric motor-generator, a 48V lithium-ion hybrid battery and a DC-DC converter. The mild hybrid tech supports the 2.8-litre engine to deliver smooth, quiet and refined performance in both on- and off-road driving, particularly when pulling away and under acceleration.
The mild hybrid system doesn’t impact load-carrying capability: payload is up to 1,000kg and towing capacity is 3,500kg. The 48V also retains the Hilux’s 700mm wading capability, and comes with the Multi-Terrain Select system, with a Multi-Terrain Monitor available to help position the vehicle in challenging conditions. A panoramic view monitor is also available.
Both versions will also become the first Hilux models to be equipped with electric power steering.
Conventional diesel and petrol internal combustion engines will be available in Toyota’s Eastern European markets only, ensuring “regional customer needs are catered for”.
Toyota has also committed to a hydrogen fuel cell version, due to arrive in 2028, which will further demonstrate its “commitment to realising the potential of hydrogen as a valuable source of clean energy and will add stimulus to a wider roll-out of hydrogen eco-systems and infrastructure in Europe”.
Hilux’s new exterior styling is based on a ‘Tough and Agile’ theme with a new-look front-end that includes an aerodynamic revamp for the front grille on the BEV model. New features across all versions include a new rear deck step for easy access; selected models have a redesigned side step.
Inside, the centre console gets a new horizontal design, incorporating a pair of 12.3-inch driver and infotainment touchscreens, depending on the grade, for a fully digital user experience.
All the AWD and off-road controls are centrally grouped for ease of operation; the BEV model adopts a single-action shift-by-wire drive selector. Hilux is available, again dependent on equipment grade, with a wireless device charger and new USB ports in the rear of the cab.
Drivers can use remote and connected services via the MyToyota app and fleet managers can view data from up to 10 vehicles, including location, fuel level and EV charging status, and driving analytics such as journey history.
New and upgraded driver assistance features include an extension of Toyota Safety Sense to offer low speed acceleration suppression, proactive driving assist and an emergency driving stop system. New over-the-air updates will provide seamless upgrades when available.
Other new items include a blind spot monitor, safe exit assist and a driver monitor camera.
Sales of the new Hilux start from December. Details of the model range, specifications and prices for specific European markets will be announced closer to the launch.