After the new RAV4, and before the next Corolla, for which we’ve so far received design hints from the concept model, Toyota is updating the Hilux. “Updating,” as is common today, is mostly a marketing term: The ninth generation is a comprehensive upgrade of its predecessor, but without dramatic changes to the platform or dimensions, focusing instead on necessary technological updates.
The rugged pickup will be offered worldwide for the first time as an electric model and, starting in 2028, also as a hydrogen version, alongside gasoline and diesel models. Toyota continues to promote its philosophy that no single powertrain suits customers worldwide and that it will offer each market its preferred powertrain.
The Electric Version: Toyota is joining the trend, but cautiously. The electric model is primarily aimed at fleets that need to demonstrate reduced emissions and require a practical pickup with off-road capability. The specs are modest: A 59.2 kWh battery, a payload of 715 kg, towing capacity of 1,600 kg, and a range of just 240 km under European standards—not exactly a vehicle for off-road trips in the Negev.
Toyota promises an upgraded all-wheel-drive system, assisted by brake and torque control to improve traction, and battery protection against damage and water ingress. This seems to be a model designed to help Toyota meet strict European emission requirements; it’s not yet the electric Hilux that will conquer Africa. It is not expected to reach Israel.
Hybrid Diesel Hilux: The powertrain first introduced in the Land Cruiser is now coming to the pickup, with a 2.8-liter turbo diesel engine combined with a 48-volt mild hybrid system. In the Land Cruiser, it produces 204 hp. The electric motor mainly assists with starting and acceleration, and Toyota promises its components are positioned high in the engine bay to maintain water-fording capability of up to 70 cm. The diesel-hybrid Hilux will receive the same upgraded all-wheel-drive system. Production will start in spring 2026, and it is expected to arrive in Israel in the second half of next year.
Gasoline Hilux: For markets outside of South America and the U.S., Toyota will offer the new Hilux with a 2.7-liter engine, likely the same unit from the FJ Land Cruiser, producing 163 hp. Such a version will be marketed, for example, in Eastern Europe. There are no plans for regular import to Israel, and it is unlikely that parallel imports will generate interest either.
Hydrogen Hilux: Toyota was a pioneer in the mass production of fuel-cell vehicles—the system that converts hydrogen into electricity and water vapor—with the Mirai. Now, the Japanese manufacturer is expanding this technology to the Hilux, which will receive such a version in 2028. Using a fuel cell turns the pickup into an electric vehicle that generates its own electricity, with unlimited range, as refueling with hydrogen takes as little time as gasoline or diesel. The problem is hydrogen station availability. Hundreds are being rolled out in Europe, while in Israel, only one station operates in Yagur in the north. Therefore, this model is not expected to come to Israel.
Design: The Hilux receives an updated front in the style of the RAV4 and Corolla Cross, with a closed-off grille on the electric model. Single-cab production will be discontinued, and the new generation will only be offered as a double-cab.
Interior: The center console features a new horizontal design, including a 12.3-inch instrument cluster and a central multimedia touchscreen (up to 12.3 inches). There is also front wireless charging and rear USB ports, depending on trim level.
The electric power steering allows for upgraded active safety features, including lane-keeping, which will join autonomous emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, safe-exit assistance, and a driver-monitoring camera.
The Hilux is the best-selling pickup in Israel. Since the beginning of the year, 2,345 Hiluxes were registered at the licensing office, compared with 1,524 Isuzu D-Max and 145 KGM Musso. The new model will allow it to maintain its lead even as electric pickups begin to enter the market, such as the Maxus Iteron 9 and soon the KGM Musso EV.