Expected to debut by the end of this year, the 2026 New Toyota Hilux has been spotted testing in Thailand.
It is no secret that the next-gen model of the Toyota Hilux is under development. Set for a major update later this year, the test mule of the updated pickup truck has been spotted for the first time in Thailand, where it will go on sale first. Let’s run you through the details of the upcoming new Toyota Hilux.
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Next-Gen Toyota Hilux Spied: A Major Facelift or Next-Gen Model?
While the test mule seems to sport a comprehensive update in terms of design, reports suggest that this will be a major facelift of the current generation model. For reference, the current generation of the Hilux was launched in 2015 and it has got tons of updates over the years. This means that it won’t be a ground-up new model, but rather, an overhaul of the packaging based on the familiar underpinnings. It is safe to say that an all-new version of the Hilux is still some time away.
Heavily updating the current models to extend the lifecycle of a product seems to be a common practice nowadays by car manufacturers and in the case of the Hilux, Toyota could be pulling the current set a little longer rather than launching a completely new model. Whether the Japanese carmaker calls it a facelift or a new-gen model, remains to be seen.
Next-Gen Toyota Hilux Spied: What’s New?
Going by the spy shots, the front design is all-new and there seems to be very minimal resemblance to the current model. The upright stance is however maintained, further accentuated by a flat hood line. The headlamps are way sleeker than the current model, flawlessly merging into the top section of the grille. The DRLs are quite noticeable in the test mule.
The grille seems to have shrunk in size and a triangular-shaped housing is visible in the lower part of the bumper, on both ends. This space could be used for fog lamps as well as air curtains. We can say that the upcoming new Hilux will appear far more rugged and appealing.
The company has skipped the camouflage on the sides as the doors are familiar to the current model. However, the front and rear fenders will carry a new design along with an updated design for alloy wheels. The rear section highlights the refreshed tail lamps.
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Next-Gen Toyota Hilux Spied: Changes to the Powertrain and Underpinnings
The current Hilux is based on the brand’s IMV platform and according to reports, it will be continued with the updated Hilux, however, nothing can be confirmed as of now. Furthermore, the updated Fortuner could also do away with the familiar underpinnings. This means that the latest advanced TNGA-F ladder frame chassis is not on the cards for the Hilux and Fortuner duo. The TNGA-F platform currently underpins the Land Cruiser Prado, Tundra and Tacoma.
Under the hood, the updated Hilux will be powered by the familiar 2.8-litre turbo diesel engine but it will likely get the 48V mild-hybrid tech for improved efficiency. The Hilux MHEV is already on sale in the European markets and it will likely be introduced to other countries with the refreshed model.