Motoring News
Article By Malcolm Libera
The new Toyota Hilux revealed – this is what the latest generation it will look like.
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Toyota has officially revealed the next-generation Hilux, confirming one of the most anticipated motoring announcements of the year.
The unveiling took place in Thailand, which has become a key production and launch market for Toyota’s pickup range.
This new model represents the ninth generation of the Hilux and arrives a full decade after the current version made its debut.
The Hilux remains the best-selling vehicle in South Africa and is manufactured locally at Toyota’s Prospecton plant in Durban.
The global rollout for the new Hilux is planned for 2026 and covers a broad range of configurations.
Among the biggest changes is the introduction of a battery electric vehicle (BEV) variant, which will sit alongside updated internal combustion engine (ICE) models.
Engine types and availability, however, will differ depending on the country, so local buyers will need to wait for Toyota South Africa Motors (TSAM) to confirm the exact lineup and specifications.
The new Hilux features a noticeably refreshed exterior while maintaining its familiar, boxy shape, which has become a core part of its identity.
On models with traditional engines, the most prominent change is the redesigned honeycomb grille, which takes inspiration from the updated Corolla Cross.
Slim LED headlights and LED daytime running lights run across the upper front section, with a black horizontal bar that replaces the traditional Toyota badge with bold “Toyota” lettering.
The result is a more modern and assertive appearance that still feels connected to the Hilux heritage.
One of the most notable mechanical changes is the introduction of electric power steering, a first for the Hilux.
Toyota said this improves steering precision, makes low-speed manoeuvring easier, and reduces steering kickback when driving over rough terrain.
The powertrain options announced so far include the well-known 2.8-litre turbo diesel engine, now paired with 48V mild hybrid support to enhance efficiency and responsiveness.
The BEV version is likely to draw significant attention once performance and range figures are announced, particularly given the ongoing growth in electric vehicle interest across global markets.
Updated interior
The cabin sees an even more significant leap in design maturity and quality. Toyota has aligned the new Hilux with the latest Prado SUV, sharing many of the same interior architecture cues.
Inside, there is a chunky three-spoke multifunction steering wheel, a push-button start, and a layered dashboard with an octagonal centre frame.
This area houses the air vents, hazard function, and physical controls for the climate system, reflecting Toyota’s recent move toward retaining tactile controls instead of going entirely touchscreen-based.
Below this section is a slanted panel featuring a USB Type-C port, controls for traction and hill descent management, and a rotary driving mode selector.
The centre console features a gear lever that resembles the one in the new Prado, an electronic parking brake switch, and buttons for heated seats.
Higher-spec models feature a floating 12.3-inch infotainment display and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, while more affordable workhorse variants are expected to make use of simpler analogue dials and trimmed-back technology solutions.
Comfort and safety features include leather seats with eight-way electric adjustment, blind spot monitoring, driver attention monitoring, lane-keep assist, and automatic emergency braking.
Details on South African specification levels, drivetrain selection, and pricing will be confirmed closer to its local arrival.
Toyota continues to dominate new vehicle sales in South Africa, holding just under a quarter of the total market.
The Hilux remains the company’s biggest contributor to this success. Toyota recently reported monthly sales of 3,553 Hilux units, which it says is a new record for the model.
The continued demand speaks to its reputation for reliability, local manufacturing support, and suitability across work, leisure, and fleet environments.
Toyota South Africa’s management noted that despite ongoing economic pressure in the automotive sector, the brand has continued to expand its market presence, driven largely by the Hilux.
Further details will be released as Toyota progresses toward the global launch in 2026.
Article Credit to: BusinessTech
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