The Japanese automotive giant Toyota is all set to launch the all-new ninth-generation Hilux in India today. In the last few weeks, the company has been teasing the lifestyle pickup truck, and finally, it will be launched. Although the new Hilux is expected to get the same rugged ladder-frame platform and proven diesel engine, it will be getting a more premium design, additional technology, and new safety features. So, if you are planning to buy one or want to know what Toyota has changed, here is everything you need to know about the new Hilux before its official launch.
Toyota has given the new Hilux a major design overhaul but has still managed to retain its unmistakable pickup truck character. At the front, the biggest highlight is the new fascia, which now looks much more aggressive than before. It gets slimmer LED headlamps with integrated daytime running lamps, a squared-off black grille with bold TOYOTA lettering replacing the traditional Toyota badge.
It also gets a completely redesigned bumper with larger air intakes and a silver skid plate that further enhances its rugged appearance. Also, the LED fog lamps have been neatly integrated into the bumper. Moving to the side, the Hilux continues with its practical dual-cab body style but now looks sportier thanks to blacked-out B-pillars, black wheel arch cladding, black ORVMs, and new alloy wheel designs.
Now, depending on the variant, Toyota is expected to offer both 17-inch and 18-inch alloy wheels wrapped in radial tyres. At the rear, Toyota has given the Hilux new C-shaped LED tail lamps, a chunky black bumper with an integrated step for easy access to the cargo bed, and large embossed TOYOTA lettering on the tailgate. A reverse parking camera has also been added, which has been placed below the tailgate handle.
The biggest update on the new Hilux will be seen inside the cabin. Toyota has completely redesigned the dashboard and has given it a much more premium and modern appearance compared to the outgoing model. The cabin boasts an all-black theme, which features leatherette upholstery, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with TOYOTA branding, and a layered dashboard design with sleek horizontal AC vents.
The main highlight of the dashboard is a new 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which will be paired with an equally large 12.3-inch fully digital instrument cluster. Toyota has also retained a number of physical buttons for important controls, which make the Hilux easier to operate while driving off-road. The centre console also houses the gear selector, four-wheel-drive controls, off-road mode selector, and cup holders.
The new Hilux is expected to get a long list of premium features. It is expected to include wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, connected car technology, dual-zone automatic climate control, ventilated front seats, a 9-speaker JBL premium sound system, powered front seats, and a fully digital driver’s display.
It will also get wireless connectivity and a 360-degree camera system. Toyota is also expected to offer a 220V power outlet and additional convenience features that are already available on the international-spec model. These additions will make the new Hilux a lot more premium than the outgoing model.
Toyota is also expected to improve the safety package on the new Hilux. Apart from the standard safety equipment, the pickup truck is expected to get a comprehensive Level 2 ADAS suite. Its expected safety features will include Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keeping Assist, Automatic Emergency Braking, a 360-degree camera, Blind Spot Monitor, Electronic Stability Control, Hill Hold Assist, and seven airbags, along with many others.
Mechanically, Toyota is not expected to make any major changes. The new Hilux will most likely continue with the tried-and-tested 2.8-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine. This motor produces 204 PS of maximum power and up to 500 Nm of torque in the automatic version, while the manual variant generates 420 Nm.
Buyers will still get the choice of a six-speed manual or a six-speed torque-converter automatic gearbox, along with Toyota’s capable four-wheel-drive system offered as standard. It is believed that Toyota could offer its 48V NeoDrive mild-hybrid technology on the Hilux, like it is currently offering on the Fortuner Legender in India.
If introduced, this system will not increase power output. However, it will improve fuel efficiency, refinement, and low-speed performance. It will assist the diesel engine during acceleration and enable smoother start-stop operation. Toyota has not officially confirmed this for India yet, but reports have suggested that it could be offered as an optional powertrain.
The outgoing Hilux is currently priced between Rs 28.52 lakh and Rs 36 lakh (ex-showroom). So, now, with the extensive list of updates and premium positioning, the ninth-generation Hilux is expected to get a major price bump. Most likely, it could start around Rs 30 lakh and go up to Rs 40 lakh. Once launched, the new Toyota Hilux will continue to rival the Isuzu V-Cross, which is the only other premium pickup truck in the country.
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