The next-generation 2026 Toyota HiLux has officially been unveiled — and it’s making big waves. With diesel, EV (and later fuel-cell) powertrains, plus a body styled in Australia, Toyota is clearly aiming to reclaim ute supremacy.
The HiLux, which held the title of Australia’s top-selling vehicle for seven straight years until the Ford Ranger took over in 2023, remains Toyota’s flagship nameplate here. This new model isn’t just a facelift — it’s a complete rethink designed to win back its crown.
Unveiled in Bangkok (where future HiLux units will be built), the new generation features an Australian-led exterior design described as a “deliberate departure” from the outgoing model. Toyota Design Australia senior manager Nick Hogios said:
“Over the past 10 years we’ve worked on significant HiLux updates… It was natural that Toyota HQ selected us to design the exterior for the next generation.”
Bold new exterior
While the underpinnings remain based on Toyota’s proven ‘Innovative International Multi-Purpose Vehicle’ (IMV) platform, the 2026 HiLux debuts a bold new look.
Dubbed the “Cyber Sumo” design theme, the ute gets high-set headlights, a body-coloured mesh grille and a chunkier front bumper that gives it a tougher stance. A new integrated rear-step makes accessing the tray easier — clearly inspired by rival utes like the Ranger.
Major interior upgrade
Inside, the HiLux sees its biggest cabin overhaul in decades. While it retains the same door skins, roof and window glass as the previous model, almost everything else has been redesigned.
There’s a new three-tier dashboard, redesigned front and rear seats, and a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with physical buttons for key functions like climate control. Higher-spec models feature a digital instrument cluster (7.0- to 12.3-inch) and a new square-centre steering wheel reminiscent of the LandCruiser Prado.
An electronic parking brake replaces the traditional lever, and a taller, wider centre console adds useful extra storage.
Powertrains and local tuning
At launch, the new HiLux will stick with the familiar 2.8-litre turbo-diesel four-cylinder (code 1GD-FTV). There are no petrol engines yet, and both six-speed manual and automatic transmissions carry over.
Outputs remain at 150 kW/500 Nm for the automatic and 150 kW/420 Nm for the manual, though some automatic variants will introduce 48-volt mild-hybrid assistance to improve efficiency and refinement.
Extensive testing has been carried out in Australia, with Toyota developing two distinct suspension tunes — one for work and towing, the other for general on-road and off-road balance — ensuring the new HiLux feels right at home on Aussie roads.
Model range and timing
The new diesel range will launch locally in December 2025, offered in familiar WorkMate, SR, SR5, Rogue and Rugged X trims across single-, extra- and dual-cab configurations, and with 4×2 and 4×4 drivetrains.
Looking ahead, Toyota will introduce a battery-electric HiLux in early 2026, followed by a hydrogen fuel-cell model expected around 2028 — the brand’s first publicly available fuel-cell vehicle in Australia.
A GR Sport performance variant is also on the way, designed to rival the Ford Ranger Raptor with more power, torque and off-road ability.
The most Australian HiLux yet
From its locally led design to its Australian-specific suspension tuning, the 2026 Toyota HiLux has been built with our market in mind. It’s bolder, tougher and more advanced than ever — and with electrified versions on the horizon, it’s clear Toyota plans to keep the HiLux at the top of Australia’s ute game for years to come. Stay tuned for Discoverauto for pricing and our first steer of the new HiLux.
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