Toyota unveiled the ninth-generation Hilux in Bangkok last month, and it’s already turning heads worldwide. This pickup truck, a favorite for farmers, adventurers, and tough jobs, gets a fresh look and smarter tech while keeping its unbeatable durability. The 2025 model mixes diesel muscle with hybrid help and even teases electric versions down the line. It’s built to haul heavy loads, tow trailers, and crawl over rocks without flinching. With launches starting in Asia next year, expect this workhorse to hit roads from Australia to Europe, proving once more why it’s sold over 14 million units globally.
A Tougher Look for Everyday Heroes
The new Hilux keeps its boxy, no-nonsense shape but amps up the style with a bolder front grille and sharp LED lights. It’s a bit longer at 5325 millimeters and wider for better stability, yet stays nimble for city drives or farm paths. Inside, things feel built to last, with hard plastics that shrug off dirt and spills. Seats hold up to four adults comfortably up front, though rear space is tight for tall folks. Toyota focused on making it practical, adding spots like dual gloveboxes and under-seat storage. It’s like your reliable buddy who shows up ready for anything, no frills needed.
Engines Built for Real Work
Power comes from tried-and-true diesels with a green twist. The star is the 2.8-liter turbo diesel paired with a 48-volt mild hybrid system. It delivers 201 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque, with the hybrid kicking in extra boost for smooth starts and better mileage. A smaller 2.4-liter option suits lighter duties at 148 horsepower. Both link to a six-speed automatic or manual, and full-time four-wheel drive handles the rough stuff. Fuel sipping hits about 29 miles per gallon combined, a win for long hauls. For those eyeing the future, a battery-electric prototype packs 144 kilowatts from a 59-kilowatt-hour pack, aiming for 186 miles of range on rough terrain.
Here’s a quick peek at the power options:
| Engine Type | Horsepower | Torque (lb-ft) | MPG (Combined) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2.8L Turbo Diesel Hybrid | 201 | 369 | 29 |
| 2.4L Turbo Diesel | 148 | 295 | 28 |
| BEV Prototype | 194 (est) | N/A | Electric |
Smart Features Without the Fuss
Tech steps up but stays simple. An eight-inch touchscreen runs wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, so your phone connects easy. Safety includes auto braking, lane alerts, and adaptive cruise for highway calm. Higher trims add a panoramic camera to spot obstacles off-road and JBL sound for road-trip tunes. Climate control and heated seats make cold mornings bearable. Toyota tossed in service reminders and remote checks via app, keeping downtime low. It’s all about getting the job done, not distracting from it.
Off-Road Ready From the Factory
This Hilux shines where roads end. It boasts 700 millimeters of wading depth, a rear diff lock, and low-range gearing for steep climbs. The Multi-Terrain Select tweaks traction for mud, sand, or snow with six modes. Ground clearance tops rivals at 310 millimeters, and it tows up to 3,500 kilograms or hauls a one-ton payload. GR Sport versions get stiffer springs and all-terrain tires for extra grip. Testers say it climbs like a goat and descends steady, thanks to hill control. No wonder it’s the go-to for global aid workers and overlanders.
Key off-road tools at a glance:
| Feature | What It Does |
|---|---|
| Multi-Terrain Select | Adjusts for dirt, rock, snow |
| Hill Descent Control | Keeps steady speed downhill |
| Rear Diff Lock | Powers through slippery spots |
Prices That Fit the Bill Worldwide
Starting around $45,000 in most markets, the base Active trim covers basics like air con and cruise control. Step up to Invincible for $50,000 with leather and LED lights, or GR Sport at $55,000 for sporty tweaks. In the UK, it kicks off at about 40,000 pounds, with hybrids adding a couple grand. Prices shift by country, but Toyota keeps them competitive against Ford Ranger or VW Amarok. Launches roll out in Asia by mid-2026, Europe and Oz soon after, with electric models in 2028. Long warranty up to 10 years seals the deal for buyers.
Buzz Around the World
Early reviews call it a solid update to a legend. Top Gear praises the smoother ride and unstoppable feel, though it gripes about the bouncy rear on empty runs. What Car? gives high marks for reliability and off-road chops but notes the engine’s gruff roar. Autocar tested one towing heavy and loved the low-end pull, hitting 32 miles per gallon in real life. Globally, fans in Thailand and South Africa hail it as tougher than ever, while Euro testers say it lags rivals in fancy interiors. Overall, it’s the pickup for folks who value grit over glamour, earning four out of five stars across the board.
