Toyota Gives The Hilux A Major Refresh With A New Interior And Powertrains

Toyota has given the Hilux a major refresh for the 2026 model year. This new refresh comes with lots of improvements, ranging from a new look, a new dashboard, and a new powertrain, which will include a hydrogen and electric version.

Considering it’s replacing a truck launched in 2015, it’s no surprise that the new Hilux looks substantially different. Toyota has beefed up the styling with a more angular design in keeping with the Tacoma. It too ditches the corporate logo in favor of a large wordmark, flanked by slender headlights for a more modern look.

The closed-off upper part of the front section denotes we’re looking at the EV version. Naturally, models with combustion engines will need additional cooling, necessitating a traditional grille. The charging port is mounted on the front fender, while combustion-powered versions are expected to retain the rear-mounted fuel cap.

Elsewhere, the wheel design is exclusive to the EV, and all variants feature a new rear deck step for easier access to the load bed. The side steps have also been redesigned to facilitate entry and exit. At the back, the tailgate adopts a slice of Americana with massive, debossed Toyota lettering. The truck’s name is neatly integrated into the door handle, just below the mandatory third brake light.

Powertrains

The powertrain features a 59.2 kWh lithium-ion battery and compact front and rear electric axles (eAxles) that provide permanent four-wheel drive, with torque of 205 Nm at the front and 268.6 Nm at the rear. Preliminary data obtained before the final homologation results indicate approximate figures of 715 kg payload and 1,600 kg towing, with a WLTP range of approximately 240 km. Toyota aimed to achieve best-in-class charging that would minimise the time the vehicle spends on a charger.

Still, Toyota knows the EV won’t suit everyone, which is why the 2.8-liter turbodiesel with mild-hybrid tech will continue in the new generation. It can carry up to 2,205 lbs (1,000 kg) and tow 7,716 lbs (3,500 kg), making it far better suited for heavy-duty work than the electric Hilux. In Eastern Europe, the lineup will also include non-electrified 2.8-liter diesel and 2.7-liter gasoline engines.

Looking ahead, Toyota’s diversification plan goes beyond battery power. Starting in 2028, a fuel cell version will join the range, because yes, Toyota still believes in hydrogen. The company is also collaborating with BMW to help the German automaker launch its first production fuel cell vehicle, the iX5 Hydrogen, in the same year.

Interior

Inside, the Hilux features a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and an infotainment screen with the same diagonal. Just like the exterior, the interior of the new Hilux is also considerably more modern than that of the outgoing model.

This is also the first Hilux to be equipped with electric power steering, which provides the benefits of more direct steering, easier maneuvering, and less risk of kickback when driving on rough terrain.

Owners of the new Hilux versions can use remote controls and connected services via the MyToyota app, which is convenient for both private and business/fleet users. Fleet managers can view data from up to 10 vehicles, including location information, fuel level and charging status for electric cars, as well as driving analytics such as trip history.

Sales of the 2026 Hilux will commence in December, with production of the mild-hybrid diesel variant to follow next spring.

• Also See: According To Toyota, Hydrogen Will Eventually Replace Diesel