Toyota’s all-new Hilux breaks cover: Tougher, smarter, and finally electric
Here it is, the all-new, ninth-generation Toyota Hilux. After months of teasers and speculation, the wraps are finally off, and we can now see what Toyota’s been cooking. It feels like a big moment.
The outgoing eighth-gen Hilux has been around for nearly a decade, yet it’s remained a monthly sales champ, proof that loyalty runs deep when it comes to this bakkie. It’s more than just a vehicle, especially in Mzansi, where it’s part of our culture.
But with strong rivals like the Ford Ranger, Isuzu D-Max, VW Amarok, Mitsubishi Triton, and even new challengers from the East like the BYD Shark 6, GWM P-Series, and LDV T60, the new Hilux has its work cut out, and if initial impressions are to go by, it has what it takes to maintain its position on the monthly sales charts.
Speaking of the new Hilux, the headline news is electrification and not just mild-hybrid stuff. For the first time, Toyota’s bringing out a fully electric Hilux bakkie, along with a hydrogen fuel-cell version. That’s huge. While the eighth-gen model was all about ‘redefining toughness,’ this new one takes things up a notch with a ‘tough and agile’ theme. And that’s not difficult to see. It comes with a stance that is more planted, sharper proportions, and an overall look that just oozes strength and purpose.
From the front, the new Hilux has clearly moved on. Gone are the large, chunky headlights; in their place, sleek, slim clusters connected by a bold central bar proudly wearing the TOYOTA nameplate in classic style. The electric version even takes it a step further, ditching the traditional grille entirely for a clean, aerodynamic face and dedicated alloys that scream modern EV. There’s also a new rear deck step for easier access (yes, much like the Ranger’s), and redesigned side steps depending on the trim.
Step inside, and the story gets even better. The cabin takes heavy inspiration from the latest Land Cruiser. Nothing wrong with that. If there was ever one area where the Hilux felt dated, it was the interior. This time, though, it’s been completely revamped. The layout is more horizontal and refined, the materials look premium, and depending on the model, you get a 12.3-inch customizable driver’s cluster and a matching 12.3-inch central touchscreen.
Other features include a wireless device charger, new USB ports in the rear of the cabin, and a shift-by-wire drive selector for the electric model. Worth mentioning is electric power steering for the first time in a Hilux. According to Toyota, this enhances the Hilux’s manoeuvrability, direct operation and less risk of kick-back when driving over irregular terrain.
As for safety, the new Hilux features the extension of Toyota Safety Sense to include Low Speed Acceleration Suppression, Proactive Driving Assist and an Emergency Driving Stop System. Owners will also be able to enjoy over-the-air updates when available. Toyota has also added a blind spot monitor and a driver monitoring camera.
Toyota hasn’t confirmed the local line-up just yet, but over in Europe, customers will continue getting the familiar 2.8-litre 4-cylinder turbodiesel now paired with a 48V mild-hybrid system. It’s the same setup we have locally, producing 150kW and 500Nm, and still capable of hauling serious loads. Toyota claims a payload of up to a tonne and a braked towing capacity of 3,500kg, so yes, it’s still every bit the workhorse it’s always been.
As for us, we expect the same range of engines to carry over, perhaps with a few tweaks here and there to keep things interesting. To refresh your memory, that means the 2.0-litre and 2.7-litre naturally aspirated petrols, plus the 2.4-litre and 2.8-litre turbo-diesels for the higher trims. In short, Toyota’s not fixing what isn’t broken, just refining it.
Regarding the electric Hilux bakkie, Toyota says it will still boast the capabilities associated with the Hilux brand, thanks to electrified components that have been designed for simple integration and to withstand tough conditions. For example, the motor-generator has been positioned high up on the engine so the bakkie soldiers on with its 700mm wading depth.
The new Hilux is expected to touch down in Mzansi sometime in 2026, and judging by what it brings to the table, it’s shaping up to be a serious contender once again. Honestly, it’s about time. Rivals have been pushing the innovation envelope for a while now, and the Hilux was starting to feel a little behind. Yet, somehow, it kept on selling, and that says a lot. In October alone, Toyota moved 3,533 Hilux units, proving just how deep the love for this bakkie runs. With this new one, though, we might finally see the Hilux not just rely on its reputation, but earn it all over again.
