Toyota Hilux

Model Overview

The Toyota Hilux is an iconic mid-size pick-up truck under the Toyota brand and stands as one of the most legendary nameplates in global automotive history. First introduced in 1968, the Hilux has been sold across more than 190 countries and regions worldwide on the back of its benchmark Quality, Durability, and Reliability (QDR), chalking up cumulative sales of over 17 million units to become one of the best-selling pick-up trucks globally.

In November 2025, Toyota staged the global debut of the all-new ninth-generation Hilux in Thailand. The new model was led in development by Toyota Australia, engineered jointly with teams from Thailand and Japan. On 28 May 2026, the ninth-generation Hilux officially went on sale in Japan. As of June 2026, the pick-up has been rolled out across markets including Japan, Australia, and Southeast Asia. In the Japanese domestic market, the ninth-generation Hilux is offered in two variants – Z and Z Adventure – priced at RM4,980,800 and RM5,500,000 (inclusive of tax) respectively. In the Taiwan market, the pre-booking price for the sole variant stands at RM1,630,000.

Design Language

The exterior styling of the ninth-generation Hilux is built around the core concept of "Cyber SUMO". Drawing inspiration from the initial clash (tachi-ai) of sumo wrestlers, it presents a solid, grounded, and intensely aggressive road presence. The front fascia sports a honeycomb radiator grille bearing bold "TOYOTA" lettering, complemented by sharp Bi-Beam LED headlamps, daytime running lights (DRLs), and a muscular, raised bonnet. In terms of dimensions, the pick-up measures 5,325 mm in length, 1,885 mm in width, and 1,865 mm in height. The Z Adventure variant further adds exclusive front bumper lower garnish, a silver front skid plate, side skirts, a cargo bed sports bar, and dedicated tailgate badging.

Inside, the cabin features a horizontally tiered dashboard layout, allowing drivers to intuitively gauge the vehicle's attitude during off-road driving. A standalone 12.3-inch high-definition central touchscreen is positioned to minimise driver eye diversion. Drive-related control buttons are neatly clustered below the centre console, distinctly segregated from the navigation and air-conditioning interfaces to enable intuitive blind operation during demanding driving. A Land Cruiser-derived multi-function steering wheel and a compact gear selector further elevate the cabin's premium feel.

Powertrain & Performance

The ninth-generation Hilux introduces a diversified powertrain line-up. The internal combustion engine (ICE) version is powered by the familiar 1GD-FTV 2.8-litre inline four-cylinder turbodiesel engine, delivering a maximum output of 204 PS (150 kW) and a peak torque of 500 Nm (51 kgm), paired with a 6-speed Super ECT automatic transmission. Selected markets also offer the 48V V-Active mild-hybrid system (standard on SR grades and above), providing an additional boost of 11.5 PS and 65 Nm of torque assist.

Additionally, Toyota has introduced an all-electric variant for the Hilux for the first time (Hilux BEV), featuring a 59.2 kWh battery pack and a dual-motor all-wheel-drive system. Toyota also plans to roll out a hydrogen fuel cell (FCEV) version around 2028.

Chassis & Handling

Underneath, the ninth-generation Hilux retains its rugged ladder-frame chassis, underpinned by an upgraded IMV (Innovative International Multi-purpose Vehicle) platform. Toyota has reinforced the chassis side rails with thicker steel and added 36 spot welds to the underbody, significantly improving bending and torsional rigidity. The suspension setup consists of a front double-wishbone independent suspension and a rear leaf-spring rigid axle.

Drivetrain duties are handled by a part-time 4WD system supporting selectable 2H (two-wheel drive), 4H (high-range 4WD), and 4L (low-range 4WD) modes. For the first time, the Multi-Terrain Select (MTS) system comes standard, offering six selectable terrain modes including Sand, Mud, and Rock. This works in tandem with the Multi-Terrain Monitor (MTM), which utilises exterior cameras to provide an underfloor "transparent chassis" view. A rear differential lock and Automatic Limited-Slip Differential (Auto LSD) further bolster its off-road recovery capability.

Cabin & Equipment

Inside the cabin, the entire range comes equipped with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12.3-inch floating infotainment touchscreen as standard. The infotainment system supports both wireless and wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. Physical controls for the climate system are retained beneath the central screen for effortless blind operation. The seats are trimmed in premium leather, featuring 8-way power adjustment with lumbar support. Audiophiles are catered to by a premium 9-speaker JBL sound system. Other amenities include a Qi wireless charging pad, Electronic Parking Brake (EPB), and Auto Brake Hold.

At the back, the dedicated cargo bed boasts a maximum payload capacity of 500 kg. The tailgate opening height is rated at 845 mm from the ground, with integrated corner steps newly added to the left and right rear quarter panels for easier access.

Safety & Driver Assistance

The ninth-generation Hilux comes standard with the full Toyota Safety Sense (TSS 3.0) active safety suite across all variants. Key features include the Pre-Collision System (PCS, with junction oncoming vehicle and crossing pedestrian detection), full-speed Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Lane Tracing Assist (LTA), Lane Departure Alert (LDA), Automatic High Beam (AHB), Road Sign Assist (RSA), and Proactive Driving Assist (PDA). The safety package is further bolstered by Blind Spot Monitor (BSM), Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), Safe Exit Assist (SEA), Parking Support Brake (PKSB), and Drive-start Control. A Rear Seat Reminder system detects whether occupants remain in the rear quarters after the vehicle is locked. Connectivity is facilitated via an onboard Data Communication Module (DCM), supporting over-the-air (OTA) software updates.

Market Performance & Evaluation

The Hilux remains an undisputed sales powerhouse in the global pick-up truck segment. Following the debut of the ninth-generation model, it sparked lively discussions across social media, drawing enthusiastic comments from netizens such as "looks tough", "stunning new colour", and "substantial size yet great value". The striking new "Sulphur Metallic Yellow" shade in particular has garnered widespread attention.

In China, the Hilux is available solely via parallel import channels as Toyota has never officially introduced it there. Within the one-tonne pick-up segment, key rivals to the Hilux include the Ford Ranger, Isuzu D-Max, and Nissan Navara. Spanning from the original 1968 model to this ninth-generation iteration in 2026, this legendary workhorse has written one of the most illustrious chapters in automotive history across nearly six decades. While staying true to its hardcore DNA with a ladder-frame chassis and rear leaf springs, the ninth-generation model leaps from an "uncompromising workhorse" to an "intelligent all-rounder" courtesy of a 48V mild-hybrid setup, BEV and FCEV powertrains, Level 2 semi-autonomous driving capabilities, and Multi-Terrain Select. As Toyota puts it, the Hilux will continue to "evolve alongside diverse lifestyles while honouring the DNA passed down by its forebears".