The 2026 Toyota HiLux has officially been revealed, but it’s not an all-new ute in the traditional sense. While it keeps the same proven bones as before, it gains a bold Australian-led design, a much-improved cabin, and the promise of new electric and hydrogen powertrains. Here’s how it stacks up against the outgoing model.
Design highlights
The new Toyota HiLux gets a distinct new fascia and a sharper rear end, but in profile, it looks nearly identical to the outgoing model. Toyota calls the new look “Cyber Sumo”, a reference to its wider stance and upright front. Compared to the older HiLux’s conservative face, the 2026 model’s squared-off headlights, body-coloured mesh grille, and chunkier bumper give it a tougher, more planted stance.
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It’s an evolutionary update for the Toyota HiLux, not a revolutionary one. The overall shape and proportions remain mostly unchanged, as it still rides on the same IMV platform introduced in 2004. Even the door skins, roof, and window glass are carried over from the outgoing model.
However, small touches make a big difference: an integrated rear step (first seen on the Ford Ranger and now on the Kia Tasman too) adds convenience to tray access, while top trims like SR5 and Rogue now wear black window surrounds and flared wheel arches for a sportier edge.
Dimensions (approx.)
| Model | 2025 Toyota HiLux (current) | 2026 Toyota HiLux |
| Length | 5325mm | 5325mm |
| Width | 1855mm | 1855mm |
| Height | 1815mm | 1820mm |
| Wheelbase | 3085mm | 3085mm |
More proof that the new Toyota HiLux is not that different from the current generation of the ute, as the length, wheelbase and width remain unchanged. There will be variations based on the HiLux trim level’s design.
Cabin highlights
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Step inside and the new Toyota HiLux feels far more modern, a much-needed upgrade for the nearly decade-old ute. The all-new “three-tier” dashboard replaces the outgoing model’s upright design, with a wide central display and a mix of digital and physical controls.
Key interior highlights include:
- Larger touchscreen infotainment system
- Physical switches for key functions, such as air conditioning
- Digital driver display (7.0–12.3 inches), depending on variant
- LandCruiser Prado-style steering wheel with a squared-off hub
- Wider and taller centre console for added storage
- Electronic park brake replacing the old pull-up lever on most models
- Newly designed front and rear seats for improved comfort and support
- Unchanged cabin space, as the body shell and door structure carry over
Toyota says the new seating and control layout was refined with Australian input to balance everyday comfort with the Toyota HiLux’s rugged practicality.
Technology features
Even with its carry-over chassis, the 2026 Toyota HiLux gains a major tech boost. Automatic models get mild-hybrid assistance, while 4×4 variants feature a locally tuned traction system and refined suspension for better comfort and control. The cabin is more modern and practical, with intuitive controls and improved connectivity.
Although Toyota hasn’t revealed the full equipment list yet, expect the usual suite of modern comforts, including Toyota Safety Sense, smartphone connectivity, and enhanced off-road controls.
Highlights:
- 48‑volt mild‑hybrid system (select automatic variants)
- Multi‑Terrain Select 4×4 system tuned in Australia
- Dual suspension tunes for different grades and driving purposes
- Toyota Safety Sense driver assistance suite (including lane‑centering, blind‑spot monitoring, Safe Exit Assist)
- Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
- Wireless smartphone charging + rear USB ports
- Multi‑Terrain Monitor with under‑body and 360‑degree cameras
- Over‑the‑air (OTA) software update capability
Performance highlights
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Despite its new look, the Toyota HiLux continues with the tried-and-tested 2.8-litre turbo-diesel engine (codenamed 1GD-FTV), along with some options getting a 48V mild-hybrid system.
A Toyota HiLux GR Sport version with more power and torque is expected to return later. The 6-speed manual and automatic transmissions carry over, though some automatic grades now include the new 48V mild-hybrid system.
| Specification | 2.8L turbo-diesel (2025) | 2.8L turbo-diesel (2026) |
| Power | 150 kW | 150 kW |
| Torque | 500 Nm (auto) / 420 Nm (manual) | 500 Nm / 420 Nm |
| Transmission | 6AT / 6MT | 6AT / 6MT |
| Payload capacity | Up to 1310kg | To be confirmed |
| Towing capacity | Up to 3,500 kg | To be confirmed |
Electric Hilux and Fuel-cell options coming
Toyota has confirmed that the HiLux will broaden its powertrain offering dramatically. The electric HiLux is set to launch in Australia in early 2026. Though full specs for the Australian model aren’t final yet, Toyota has released global/Thai‑market targets.
| Specification | Toyota Hilux BEV (2026) |
| Transmission | Single-speed auto |
| Battery capacity | 59.2 kWh |
| Range (estimated) | 300 km or more |
| Maximum system output (kW) | 144 |
| Drivetrain | Dual‑motor all‑wheel‑drive |
Toyota will also introduce a hydrogen fuel‑cell version of the HiLux in Australia in 2028. Detailed specifications, including stack output, range, payload, and towing capacity, have not yet been released. The FCEV is part of Toyota’s multi‑pathway strategy to reduce emissions and offer customers alternatives beyond conventional and battery‑electric powertrains.
Pricing (Expected vs Current)
Current Toyota HiLux pricing ranges from about $26,000 to $75,000 before on-roads, depending on variant. Toyota hasn’t confirmed prices for the new model yet, but given its added technology and powertrain upgrades, a modest increase across the range is expected.
The 2026 HiLux will launch in Australia in December 2025 with diesel models first, followed by the electric variant in early 2026 and the FCEV version planned for 2028. Grades for the Toyota HiLux in Australia will once again include WorkMate, SR, SR5, Rogue, and Rugged X, with the GR Sport expected later. Multiple body types to be offered depending on the trim, from a cab-chassis for the work to a double-cab for the lifestyle.
Key takeaways for buyers
For existing Toyota HiLux owners, the 2026 model isn’t about reinvention; it’s about refinement. The carry-over chassis means the new ute should feel instantly familiar, but the added tech, hybrid assistance, and updated design give it a much-needed modern edge.
For fleet and tradie buyers, the diesel’s reliability remains unchanged, while private buyers get a more comfortable, tech-savvy interior. The mild-hybrid system could also mean lower running costs and smoother day-to-day driving.
Meanwhile, the all-electric Toyota HiLux is a glimpse of the future of intra-city workhorses, where range anxiety and multi-tonne towing capacity are not the primary requirements for a zero-emission ute.
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