Toyota Motor Corporation has launched a completely redesigned Hilux in Japan. Since its first generation debuted in 1968, the Hilux has supported people’s lives and work, selling in more than 190 countries and regions worldwide.
In the Japanese market, customers have embraced it as a versatile choice across situations ranging from outdoor activities to work, thanks to its high quality, durability, and reliability.
The new Hilux features an updated exterior combining strength with advanced styling, along with a 1GD diesel engine known for power and durability. Beyond improved driving performance, expanded safety, security, and connected functions transform the Hilux into a pickup offering comfort and peace of mind across daily use and outdoor pursuits. The model continues to evolve alongside diverse lifestyles while honouring its inherited DNA under the “TO YOU” spirit of carmaking for a specific someone.
Cyber SUMO Design Concept
With “Cyber SUMO” as the key design concept, the new Hilux retains its utility-vehicle power and interior peace of mind while advancing toward a more solid, sharp style. It comes in two versions: the base Z and the Z Adventure, which emphasises individuality and toughness.
Inspired by the initial charge between sumo wrestlers, the front view presents a powerful presence within a stable stance, achieved through sculpted forms across the fender covers, radiator grille, and bumper. The Z Adventure adds a front lower bumper garnish emphasising toughness and a sports bar accentuating its massive appearance.
Inside, a horizontal instrument panel easily conveys the vehicle’s position during off-road driving, while the independently positioned 12.3-inch centre display minimises eye movement. Driving switches are consolidated at the console’s base, clearly separated from navigation and climate controls for excellent visibility and ease of use.
Package Built for Leisure Activities
The new Hilux features a midsize body measuring 5,325 mm long, 1,885 mm wide, and 1,865 mm tall, with a deck space separate from the cabin. Designed to carry plenty of gear for weekend getaways, it expands versatility as an active-lifestyle vehicle.
It retains a generous cargo capacity of up to 500 kg and a flat floor while featuring a deck space designed for greater usability. The deck height measures 845 mm with the tailgate open, and deck steps on the left and right rear quarter panels make cargo easier to reach for loading and unloading.
Comfortable Driving On and Off Road
The new Hilux uses a traditional ladder-frame structure and a reliable part-time 4WD system, coming standard with Multi-Terrain Select, which integrates drive power and brake hydraulic control for powerful off-road performance. A suspension designed for enhanced ride comfort and electric power steering improve on-road comfort, stability, and controllability while maintaining off-road capability.
The platform refines the ladder-frame structure from the IMV series, with increased plate thickness in the frame side rails achieving an optimal balance of rigidity for excellent handling. An additional 36 spot welds on the floor panel increase rigidity and suppress vibration and booming noise.
The 2.8-litre direct-injection clean diesel engine (1GD-FTV), paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, achieves fuel efficiency and powerful acceleration while ensuring a quiet ride. The part-time 4WD system allows mode selection via the transfer case switch and comes standard with Multi-Terrain Select and Multi-Terrain Monitor. Optimised spring rates, revised shock absorber damping, and electric power steering deliver comfortable, stable driving, while an electric parking brake adds a stop-hold function to the Radar Cruise Control.
Safety, Connectivity, and Customization
Designed for varied scenarios, the new Hilux carries comprehensive safety and security equipment plus advanced connected functions. Toyota Safety Sense has been enhanced with Proactive Driving Assist, which supports steering and braking on public roads, and a Pre-collision Safety system detecting oncoming vehicles when turning right and pedestrians crossing when turning.
Connected functions include Connected Navigation-compatible Display Audio Plus with a 12.3-inch HD display, maintaining a constant connection to the centre via DCM, plus Help Net, which automatically connects to an operator when an airbag deploys. Toyota will continue enhancing functions through DCM software updates.
The Hilux is available in Z and Z Adventure grades, priced at 4,980,800 yen and 5,500,000 yen respectively, both with part-time 4WD, the 1GD-FTV 2.8-litre diesel, and the 6 Super ECT transmission. The base sales volume for Japan is 690 units. Dealer options focused on the deck, including a bed liner, tailgate lift assist, and tailgate emblem, expand customization. The new Hilux is produced at the Ban Pho Plant of Toyota Motor Thailand.