Toyota has officially pulled the covers off the all-new Hilux in Thailand, signalling a major evolution for one of the brand’s longest-running and most trusted nameplates. With a heritage built on toughness, reliability, and endurance, this ninth-generation Hilux enters a new era — blending Toyota’s legendary durability with electrified innovation.
For the first time, the Hilux will be offered with both internal combustion (ICE) and fully electric (BEV) powertrains, reflecting Toyota’s multi-pathway approach to sustainable mobility. This strategy ensures that customers around the world can choose the powertrain that best fits their lifestyle and environment. Market rollouts for both versions are expected to begin from the 2026 fiscal year.
Since its introduction in 1968, the Hilux has been a symbol of dependability, trusted by millions across more than 195 countries. Over the decades, it has evolved from a rugged workhorse into a versatile, all-purpose vehicle — one equally at home on farms, construction sites, or family adventures. The new generation builds upon that legacy, positioning the Hilux as what Toyota calls a true “Partner for Life,” combining strength with practicality, and capability with everyday usability.
The latest model has been designed with versatility at its core. Whether tackling rough terrains, navigating city traffic, or handling demanding work conditions, the Hilux continues to deliver. It embodies Toyota’s long-standing philosophy of “Mobility for All” by catering to a broad range of users and lifestyles, reinforcing its reputation as one of the most dependable pickups in the world.
Built in Thailand under Toyota’s Innovative International Multi-purpose Vehicle (IMV) project, the new Hilux is the result of a global collaboration that began in 2004 under the direction of Akio Toyoda. The IMV initiative focused on developing affordable and region-specific vehicles through local production — a principle that remains integral to the new Hilux’s development. Thailand remains at the heart of this operation, supported by engineering and design input from Toyota’s teams in Australia.
The company describes the new Hilux as tougher, smarter, and more refined, but without compromising its core DNA. Every detail — from chassis enhancements to improved suspension and electric power steering — has been tuned to deliver a smoother and more controlled drive. It’s a pickup designed to perform across all environments, balancing the strength expected of a Hilux with the comfort demanded by modern drivers.
The introduction of a fully electric Hilux marks one of the biggest milestones in the model’s history. The BEV variant promises instant torque and near-silent operation, while maintaining the body-on-frame toughness and payload capabilities that define the nameplate. For those who prefer conventional power, the new ICE versions continue to deliver proven reliability and performance. Together, these variants demonstrate Toyota’s commitment to offering sustainable solutions without forcing drivers to compromise.
The new Hilux now comes equipped with the 1GD-FTV 2.8-litre four-cylinder turbodiesel engine. This unit delivers 204 PS between 3,000 and 3,400 rpm and 500Nm of torque from 1,600 to 2,800 rpm. Buyers can choose between a six-speed manual or automatic transmission, with the manual version limited to 420Nm.
Responding to growing global demand, particularly in Europe and the United Kingdom, Toyota has introduced the all-electric version of its iconic pickup — the Hilux Travo-e. This marks the production debut of the fully electric Hilux, a bold step toward Toyota’s goal of achieving carbon neutrality within its commercial vehicle lineup.
Despite the switch to electric power, the Travo-e remains true to the Hilux’s rugged character. It continues to offer serious off-road and work-ready credentials, including 500 mm of wheel articulation, a 700 mm water-wading depth, and 1,600 kg of towing capacity. However, its payload is slightly lower at around 715 kg. To accommodate the rear-mounted motor, Toyota has swapped the traditional solid rear axle for a De Dion suspension setup, enhancing ride comfort and stability.
Under the hood — or rather, under the floor — lies a dual-motor setup, producing 112 PS and 205 Nm at the front and 176 PS and 268 Nm at the rear. Combined, the system generates 196 PS, giving the Travo-e strong all-wheel-drive traction and confident acceleration. Power is supplied by a 59.2 kWh battery, which delivers a 240 km WLTP-rated range (or up to 315 km under the NEDC cycle). While the battery capacity is modest for a one-tonne pickup, it’s protected by Toyota’s Diamond Shield battery cage, designed to withstand impacts from debris or rocks during off-road driving.
Charging options include 125 kW DC fast charging and 10 kW AC charging, accessed through a port positioned on the front fender.
Inside, the Hilux steps into the digital age with the latest connectivity and safety technologies. Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 provides upgraded pre-collision detection and lane-keeping assistance, while a Panoramic View Monitor and Multi-Terrain Monitor give drivers full visibility when manoeuvring in tight or challenging conditions. The cabin is more connected than ever, featuring seamless smartphone integration and updated infotainment software to make daily driving more intuitive.
Toyota says the Hilux has always been shaped by the communities that rely on it, and this new generation continues that tradition. It represents not just a vehicle, but a bond of trust between the brand and its customers — particularly in Thailand, where the Hilux has long been both built and loved.
As the pickup market grows increasingly competitive, Toyota’s decision to blend heritage with innovation ensures that the Hilux remains a benchmark for strength, quality, and versatility. The introduction of electrified options marks a bold new chapter in its history — one that’s set to keep the Hilux at the forefront of global mobility well into the future.
