Highlights

• Fully electric Hilux arrives with a 59.2 kWh battery and dual-motor setup

• Sleek exterior with larger grille, slim LED headlights, and modern bumper design

• Interior packed with 12.3-inch digital cluster, touchscreen infotainment, wireless charging, and ventilated seats

• Advanced safety with Level 2 ADAS, blind-spot monitoring, 360-degree camera, and seven airbags

• Diesel and petrol mild-hybrid options alongside a future hydrogen fuel-cell EV

Toyota has revealed the ninth-generation Hilux at the Thailand Motor Expo 2025. The new model updates the classic pickup with sharper styling, modern interiors, and a fully electric powertrain. It is designed to appeal to both work-focused users and lifestyle enthusiasts.

Modern Exterior Design That Stands Out

The new Hilux has a bold and contemporary look. The front gets a larger grille with the classic TOYOTA branding instead of just a badge. Slim LED headlamps with C-shaped daytime running lights give it a tougher presence. The bumper has sharper lines and a faux skid plate for an aggressive stance.

The side profile retains muscular haunches and flared wheel arches. Diesel and petrol models feature black off-road alloy wheels, while the electric version gets aerodynamic wheelcaps. At the rear, LED taillamps, a Hilux-branded insert, and a boxy bumper complete the refreshed look. The dual-cab layout is the only variant available in this generation.

Interior Features Designed for Comfort and Technology

Inside, the Hilux adopts a rugged yet modern style with an all-black theme and boxy dashboard design. Technology and comfort are prioritized with:

• 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment

• Wireless phone charger and powered ventilated front seats

• Rear USB charging ports and multiple drive modes

Safety gets a major upgrade with Level 2 ADAS, including blind-spot monitoring, Safe Exit Assist, 360-degree camera, electronic stability control, and seven airbags. The new interior combines utility and convenience for everyday driving and off-road adventures.

Powertrain Options for Every Need

The 2026 Hilux comes with a range of engines including the first fully electric model.

• Electric Hilux

  • 59.2 kWh battery with 242 km WLTP range

  • Dual motor output of 196 PS and 205 Nm torque

  • Payload capacity of 715 kg and towing up to 1600 kg

• Mild-Hybrid Diesel and Petrol

  • 2.8-litre diesel and 2.7-litre petrol engines with 48V mild-hybrid system

  • India expected to get the 2.8-litre diesel shared with Fortuner NeoDrive

• Future Hydrogen Fuel-Cell Version scheduled for 2028

The Hilux EV signals Toyota’s shift toward sustainable pickups while keeping rugged performance intact.

What the New Hilux Means for Nepal

For Nepali buyers, the Hilux presents an exciting opportunity in the premium pickup segment. While currently available overseas, its electric variant could redefine lifestyle pickups in Nepal. The Hilux’s combination of reliability, modern design, and advanced technology is well-suited for Nepal’s growing interest in EVs and rugged vehicles for both urban and off-road use.

The dual-cab layout makes it ideal for families and professionals, while mild-hybrid options will appeal to buyers who want efficiency without compromising performance. With competitors like the Isuzu D-Max and Mahindra pickups, the Hilux could raise the standard for comfort, technology, and sustainability in Nepal.

Launch Timeline and Market Position

Toyota is expected to price the Hilux in India between Rs 35 to 45 lakh ex-showroom. Sales in the UK will start in June 2026, while India could see the launch in 2027. In Nepal, availability is likely to follow shortly after, offering buyers a premium lifestyle pickup with electric and hybrid options.

The all-new Hilux combines sleek design, modern interiors, advanced safety, and multiple powertrain options, making it one of the most compelling pickups in its class. Nepali drivers looking for a versatile and future-ready vehicle will find this Hilux generation a major step forward.