Toyota has revealed a new-generation Hilux featuring a complete design overhaul led by the company’s Australian development team, as the iconic ute approaches its 50-year milestone in New Zealand.
The redesigned Hilux was developed over four years with Toyota Australia’s Product Centre in Altona, Melbourne, leading much of the design work and on- and off-road testing in collaboration with teams in Thailand and Japan.
Toyota New Zealand chief executive Tatsuya Ishikawa says the new generation builds on the ute’s reputation while preparing for future powertrain options.
“For generations, Kiwis have trusted Hilux to deliver strength, reliability, and near-unbreakable performance through the toughest conditions this country can throw at it,” Ishikawa says.
“This evolution is more than a celebration of heritage; it’s a statement of Toyota’s vision for the future, with a multi-pathway approach that includes a battery electric vehicle (BEV) and a hydrogen fuel cell Hilux variant scheduled for 2028.”
Bold exterior and interior changes
The exterior design follows a ‘Cyber Sumo’ theme with slim-line headlights, an assertive front end, and sharp modern lines. Nearly every element beyond the cabin and doors has been redesigned, including a new rear section with an integrated tailgate step and wrap-around taillights.
Interior changes include a completely redesigned three-tier instrument panel that sits flatter to create more cabin space and improve forward visibility. All grades now feature digital instrument clusters – a 7.0-inch display for SR grades and 12.3-inch units for SR5, SR5 Limited, and Adventure variants.
A 12.3-inch multimedia touchscreen is standard across all grades, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. The centre console has been widened for improved rigidity and storage, with newly developed front seats offering up to eight-way powered adjustment and lumbar support depending on grade.
Powertrain and variants
Toyota New Zealand will offer 12 diesel and hybrid diesel variants across two-wheel drive, four-wheel drive, single cab, extra cab, and double cab configurations with both cab chassis and well-side options.
The 2.8-litre turbo diesel engine carries over from the current model, delivering 150kW of power and 420–500Nm of torque depending on transmission choice. Transmission options include a six-speed automatic and three manual variants.
Ishikawa says the hybrid diesel option has in popularity as customers recognise its performance benefits.
“The hybrid system takes nothing away from the ute’s performance. In fact, stronger acceleration, smoother operation combined with a Start Stop system, which is now standard across the range, helps reduce CO2 emissions and improve fuel efficiency,” he says.
Market positioning and availability
The new Hilux targets diverse customer segments from farmers and construction workers to families and fleet operators. Ishikawa says the ute has evolved from a simple farm workhorse to a versatile vehicle serving multiple roles.
“Our medium to large fleet and government customers look for something else from a Hilux. They want a vehicle that’s first and foremost safe, meets their functional needs and enables their business while lowering fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions,” he says.
The SR Cruiser and GR SPORT grades with wide-track configuration will not be available at launch, though Toyota is exploring future availability. The company expects to reveal more details on the BEV variant early next year.
Toyota has revealed an electric Hilux variant in Thailand, though specific availability for the New Zealand market has not been confirmed. The new-generation Hilux is expected to achieve a five-star ANCAP safety rating with enhanced Toyota Safety Sense features including motorcycle detection and intersection collision avoidance support.
