Toyota’s popular pickup truck , the Hilux , is finally undergoing a full model change. The new model is scheduled to make its world debut on November 10, 2025, in Thailand, where it is produced. A teaser video has already been released on Toyota Thailand Motors’ official Instagram, and is attracting a lot of attention on social media.
The new Hilux finally arrives: from Thailand to the world
The most notable feature of this full model change is that a pure EV battery electric vehicle (BEV) version will be released at the same time as the conventional internal combustion engine model. The full picture of the new generation Hilux, which is suited to the electrification era, will finally be revealed.
The 2026 model will be available in two types: diesel and BEV.
According to a presentation leaked by Malaysian media, the new 2026 Hilux will be available in two versions: an internal combustion engine and a battery electric vehicle (BEV). Toyota plans to launch several new vehicles, including the new Hilux, over the next 12 months as it accelerates its electrification strategy.
There have already been hints at the electrification of the Hilux. In the past, the editorial team at Kuruma News had test-driven prototypes of the diesel hybrid, FCEV (fuel cell electric vehicle), and BEV (electric vehicle) in Thailand, and the diesel hybrid was subsequently made commercially available, while the BEV was unveiled as the “Hilux BEV Revo Concept.” These technological developments will come to fruition with this full model change.
Reference: DRIVE
Futuristic and aggressive new design
Dramatic evolution of the front design
The illustrations for the design registration application have been reported by multiple media outlets, and while the design follows the image of the previous model, it has evolved into a more three-dimensional and dynamic front design. The headlights and front grille have been made thinner, giving it an aggressive and futuristic shape.
The styling is reminiscent of the current Hilux-based electric truck “eT60″ manufactured by Australian electrification manufacturer LDK, and it has undergone a unique evolution, differing from the front grille of the US models ” 4Runner ,” ” Tacoma ,” and ” Tundra ” that was initially predicted in online media.
Tacoma Trailhunter
4Runner TRDPro
Tundra-TRD
It is worth noting that the Toyota logo in the grille has been abolished and replaced with the “TOYOTA” logo in the same font type as the ” Land Cruiser FJ .” This is part of Toyota’s global design strategy and aims to unify the brand identity.
The rear design has also been revamped.
The rear combination lamps seen in the teaser video are slimmer than the previous model and feature a futuristic design that uses surface-emitting LEDs. Overall, the exterior design gives the impression of being smarter and more refined.
The interior is modern and functional
The illustration on the instrument panel is reminiscent of the Tundra for the US market, while the octagonal meter hood and matching vents create a modern atmosphere.
The biggest change is the large monitor that has been relocated to the dashboard. This signifies the transition to a new era, and we can expect a significant evolution in the infotainment system. It will likely realize a more intuitive and user-friendly interface for driver assistance systems and vehicle information displays.
Rumor has it that the GR version will have wide fenders
There are rumors that the GR version, which will be a sports grade, will be fitted with wide fenders. Not only will it look sportier, but the wider tread is expected to significantly improve the driving feel.
The Hilux has always been known for its stiff ride, but changes to the geometry are expected to significantly improve ride comfort. If the vehicle can achieve comfort close to that of a passenger car while maintaining the durability of a commercial vehicle, it should be able to appeal to an even wider range of users.
The powertrain is unified to a 2.8L diesel turbo.
All previous engines will be discontinued, leaving only the 2.8L engine
According to media reports in Asian countries, the 2.7L inline 4-cylinder naturally aspirated gasoline engine (for overseas markets) and the 2.4L inline 4-cylinder turbo diesel engine that were installed in the previous model will be discontinued and replaced with a 1GD-FTV type 2.8L inline 4-cylinder turbo diesel engine.
This change is thought to be a measure for the Australian market, which is required to comply with the Euro 6d emissions regulations that will come into effect in December 2025, and since the old engine did not even comply with the Euro 5 regulations, it was essential to change to an engine with better environmental performance.
A highly reliable engine that is well-known in Japan
The 2.8L diesel turbo engine is a familiar sight in the Japanese market, having been installed in the Hiace and Land Cruiser 70. With more torque and power than previous units, it is sure to be well received by users.
However, because it uses a urea SCR system (AdBlue), the effort of periodically refilling the urea solution increases, but this is an unavoidable change in specifications in order to achieve both environmental friendliness and power performance.
Since it is unlikely that a BEV version will be released in the Japanese market anytime soon, it is expected that the model equipped with the 2.8L diesel turbo engine will be released first.
The much-anticipated BEV version of the Hilux will compete with the Isuzu D-MAX EV
The cruising range is around 300km
The new pure EV model of the Hilux is likely to compete with the Isuzu D-MAX EV, which is sold in the Thai market and is equipped with a 66.9 kWh battery, achieving a range of 263 km.
The new Hilux BEV will have an expanded battery capacity and is expected to achieve a driving range of around 300km on a full charge. Local Thai media have predicted from a meter scale that the driving range on a full charge will definitely be over 250km, exceeding the 263km of its rival, the D-MAX EV.
Dual motors for 4WD performance
The drive system is expected to be a full-time 4WD with dual motors mounted on the front and rear axles, the same system configuration as the D-MAX EV, and aims to maintain the off-road performance required of a pickup truck even with electrification.
Considering that the D-MAX EV achieves a total system output of 140kW (approximately 190ps) and 325Nm with its two motors, it is highly likely that the new car will exceed that. Some reports have suggested that the system will achieve an output of over 190ps, so we can expect ample power performance.
The GR version in particular may have its maximum output set with a balance in mind with the cruising range. The challenge will be to achieve both the powerful driving performance unique to a sports grade and a practical cruising range.
Practicality is a challenge
However, the cruising range of approximately 300 km is not sufficient for commercial use. The range may be even shorter when traveling long distances or carrying heavy loads, and usability may be limited depending on the state of the charging infrastructure.
For the time being, it is expected that the vehicle will be used mainly for urban delivery purposes and in areas with strict environmental regulations. As battery technology advances, models with longer ranges may appear in the future.
When will it be released in the Japanese market?
Expected release in mid-2025
Further details are scheduled to be revealed in Thailand and other Asian countries on November 10, 2025. Judging from the currently released teaser video, the content seems quite promising.
For the Japanese market, it could be announced as early as the end of 2025, with a release date in the first half of 2026. Production of the current Hilux has already been suspended, and it has not been possible to order it in Japan for some time. This will be long-awaited news for customers who have been eagerly awaiting the arrival of the new model.
A hot topic model following the Land Cruiser FJ
On October 21, 2025, the new Land Cruiser FJ (TRJ240) was unveiled for the first time in the world in Thailand as the fourth model in the Land Cruiser series. Available in two designs, “square and round,” it is attracting attention as the youngest Land Cruiser.
The new Hilux will undoubtedly be a hot topic following the Land Cruiser FJ. In particular, the launch of the BEV version will be an important milestone in Toyota’s electrification strategy.
Hilux’s history and market position
The Toyota Hilux is Toyota’s signature pickup truck, which has been sold in over 180 countries and regions around the world since the first model was released in 1968. It is particularly popular in markets such as Australia, Thailand, and South Africa, where it is widely used not only as a commercial vehicle but also for leisure purposes.
Although sales in the Japanese market were once discontinued, it was revived in 2017 after a 13-year hiatus and has since gained a loyal following. Due to its high durability and reliability, it is highly regarded as a tough pickup truck that can withstand use in harsh environments.
Summary: A new standard for pickup trucks in the electrified era
The new Hilux, which will be unveiled on November 10, 2025, will mark an important turning point in Toyota’s pickup truck strategy. By simultaneously releasing a BEV version in addition to the conventional internal combustion engine model, Toyota will be able to respond to diversifying customer needs and environmental regulations.
The unification of the two models to a 2.8L diesel turbo engine achieves both power performance and environmental friendliness, and complies with Euro 6d regulations. The futuristic, aggressive design and modern interior enhance its appeal not only as a commercial vehicle but also as a passenger car.
The BEV version’s range of around 300km is still an issue for a commercial vehicle, but it should be able to meet the needs of urban use and comply with environmental regulations. The dual motor 4WD system maintains the off-road performance required of a pickup truck, even with electrification.
Due to the suspension of production of the current model, it has not been possible to order it in Japan for some time, but the arrival of the new model is sure to revitalize the market. We will be keeping a close eye on the new Hilux, which is expected to be released in Japan between the end of 2025 and the first half of 2026.
Toyota
