Toyota HiLux (2026)

Toyota has officially unveiled the all-new HiLux, introducing a bold new exterior design led by Toyota Australia, major improvements in driveability and comfort, and a thoroughly redesigned interior featuring advanced multimedia and safety technologies.

Building on its proven diesel performance, the new Toyota HiLux will also become the first model in the lineup to offer a battery-electric powertrain. This new electric HiLux is primarily aimed at fleet and business customers and forms part of Toyota’s multi-pathway approach to decarbonisation. In addition, Toyota has confirmed that a hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicle variant is planned for release in 2028, further expanding customer choice and reinforcing the brand’s long-term commitment to sustainable mobility solutions.

The new HiLux is scheduled to launch in Australia in December 2025 and brings comprehensive updates across design, performance, comfort and technology, while continuing to uphold Toyota’s reputation for quality, durability and reliability.

According to Toyota Australia Vice President of Sales, Marketing and Franchise Operations, Sean Hanley, the new HiLux continues the iconic legacy of one of Australia’s most trusted and popular pickup trucks. Generations of Australians have relied on the HiLux to deliver dependable performance in the toughest conditions, whether for work or recreation. The latest model builds on this legacy with enhanced on-road and off-road capability, improved safety and comfort, a new interior design, and an Australian-developed exterior.

Toyota will offer the new HiLux with a wide range of 21 diesel variants across single, extra and double cab body styles. Customers will be able to choose between 4x2 or 4x4 drivetrains, manual or automatic transmissions, and multiple grades including WorkMate, SR, SR5, Rogue and the new Rugged X. The Rugged X variant is designed for enhanced off-road performance, featuring protective and recovery-focused equipment as standard.

The exterior design of the new HiLux was spearheaded by Toyota Australia’s design team at the Altona Product Centre, working closely with teams in Thailand and Japan. Inspired by a “Cyber Sumo” design theme, the HiLux projects strength and modernity, with slim-line headlights, sharper body lines, and completely redesigned front and rear styling that give it a commanding road presence.

Inside, the HiLux features a completely overhauled cabin that significantly improves comfort, technology and ergonomics. A redesigned three-tier dashboard sits flatter than before to improve forward visibility, especially when driving off-road. All variants now feature a digital instrument cluster, with a 7.0-inch display on WorkMate and SR grades and a 12.3-inch screen on SR5 and above. A 12.3-inch multimedia touchscreen is standard across the entire range.

The latest multimedia system supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, built-in satellite navigation, voice control and expanded Toyota Connected Services. Interior practicality is enhanced by a wider centre console with increased storage and improved driver comfort. New front and rear seats offer improved support, with higher grades featuring power adjustment, lumbar support and leather-accented upholstery.

Climate controls feature large physical buttons and knobs for intuitive operation, while the redesigned steering wheel improves ergonomics and integrates clearly organised controls for infotainment, audio and driver assistance systems. Steering wheel heating is available on select grades.

All diesel-powered HiLux models are equipped with Toyota’s 2.8-litre turbo-diesel four-cylinder engine. Automatic variants produce 150kW of power and 500Nm of torque, while manual versions deliver up to 420Nm. Select automatic double-cab variants also feature Toyota’s 48-volt V-Active technology, which enhances stop-start smoothness and provides additional assistance during take-off.

A major milestone for the HiLux range is the introduction of the first-ever battery-electric HiLux, due to arrive in 2026. Available in double-cab 4x4 SR and SR5 grades, the electric HiLux will feature dual electric motors and a lithium-ion battery, offering zero tailpipe emissions for fleet and business customers.

Under the skin, the new HiLux adopts electric power steering for improved responsiveness, reduced vibration and better overall driving feel. This system also enhances the effectiveness of lane-keeping safety features. A revised suspension setup offers two distinct tunes, with WorkMate and SR grades optimised for heavy-duty work and towing, while SR5 and higher grades deliver improved ride comfort for everyday driving.

Off-road capability remains a core strength, with 4x4 models featuring a part-time system with high and low range. Rear locking differentials and Multi-Terrain Select traction control are standard on automatic SR 4x4 grades and above, with extensive tuning carried out by Toyota Australia to suit local conditions. Higher grades also feature a Multi-Terrain Monitor camera system to assist with navigating challenging terrain.

Structural improvements to the ladder-frame chassis enhance rigidity, comfort and crash performance, supported by new hydraulic engine mounts, revised frame cross members and upgraded suspension mounting points.

Safety has been further strengthened with the latest Toyota Safety Sense suite standard across the range. Features include autonomous emergency braking, active cruise control, lane departure alert, lane trace assist, road sign assist and automatic high beam. Additional standard safety equipment includes blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert and parking sensors. The new HiLux also introduces a cabin detection alert system that uses radar to detect rear-seat occupants and provide alerts when exiting the vehicle.

Complementing these upgrades, Toyota has expanded its Connected Services platform, allowing owners to access a wide range of safety and convenience features through a smartphone app, further enhancing the ownership experience of the new Toyota HiLux.