Toyota has commenced deliveries of the all-new ninth-generation Hilux in India, with six-time world boxing champion and Olympic medallist M.C. Mary Kom taking delivery of the first example in the country.
The special delivery took place at a Toyota dealership in the New Delhi-NCR region ahead of Independence Day. Toyota says the association brings together Mary Kom’s reputation for strength and resilience with the Hilux’s go-anywhere character.
Mary Kom has been a icon for boxing in India, winning multiple medals for the country on the global stage. Mary Kom has also represented India at the Olympics. Post her sporting career, MC Mary Kom got nominated to the Rajya Sabha of the Indian parliament as a member.
The ninth-generation Hilux was launched in India on July 28, 2026. The new pickup continues with the familiar formula of ruggedness and off-road capability, while gaining a more commanding exterior, improved comfort and additional technology.
Toyota says the new Hilux has been developed around its “Tough & Agile” design philosophy. Its styling draws inspiration from what the company calls a “Cyber Sumo” theme, giving the pickup a wider and more imposing stance.
The Hilux continues to be powered by a 2.8-litre diesel engine. It is paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission and gets features such as Multi Terrain Select and Downhill Assist Control for improved performance off the road.
The GD diesel engine makes 200 Bhp of peak power and 500 Nm of peak torque – a state of tune that’s similar to what the Toyota Fortuner gets. However, the Hilux does not get a mild hybrid option like the Fortuner.
A key change in the new Hilux is the addition of a rear wheel drive automatic trim as the base model. The higher trims get the 6 speed automatic gearbox and four wheel drive layout. There’s no manual gearbox option.
The new Hilux also gets a substantial technology upgrade. The equipment list includes a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a digital instrument cluster and connected-car technology.
Other notable features include a 360-degree camera and upgraded comfort equipment. Safety features include seven airbags and Vehicle Stability Control.
Toyota says the new Hilux has already received a strong response from customers in India. Globally, the Hilux has built a reputation spanning more than five decades and is sold in over 180 countries and regions.
For Mary Kom, the first delivery of the ninth-generation Hilux adds another interesting chapter to her association with vehicles that emphasise toughness and performance. Toyota is positioning the new Hilux as more than just a workhorse.
The latest generation also targeting buyers looking for a premium lifestyle pickup that can handle both everyday driving and challenging terrain. Improved comfort and a softer ride quality is a big step towards attracting more such buyers towards the new Hilux.
As of now, the Toyota Hilux competes with the Isuzu V-Cross in India. India’s lifestyle pick up truck market is just about getting started. Later today, Mahindra will launch a new lifestyle pick up truck based on the Scorpio-N platform.