THE ALL-NEW TOYOTA HILUX: THE WORLD’S TOUGHEST BAKKIE GOES ELECTRIC
For over five decades, the Toyota Hilux has been South Africa’s undisputed bakkie king - from farm roads to city streets, it’s the go-to for anyone who needs something that just won’t quit. Now, the legend steps into a new era. Toyota has unveiled the ninth-generation Hilux, a completely reimagined version of the global icon - tougher, smarter, and for the first time, electrified. Toyota’s approach to electrification isn’t one-size-fits-all, and the new Hilux proves it. The lineup now includes a 48V Hybrid, blending diesel muscle with electric torque, a full Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) model - zero emissions, full capability, and on the horizon is a Hydrogen Fuel Cell Hilux, already confirmed for production in 2028. This multipath approach gives customers freedom to choose - from old-school diesel and petrol workhorses in Eastern markets, to advanced electrified options for the rest of the world. The new Hilux doesn’t mess with the formula; the styling follows a “Tough and Agile” design philosophy, with a more planted stance, sharper lines, and a front end that screams presence. Slim LED headlights connect via a bold central bar proudly stamped with TOYOTA, and the overall look is pure attitude. The BEV version ditches the traditional grille for a cleaner, aero-optimised front, while all models gain new steps for easier access and a redesigned side step for practicality.
Inside, Hilux takes a massive leap forward. The cabin now mirrors Toyota’s latest Land Cruiser, with a 12.3-inch driver display, a central touchscreen of the same size, and improved materials all around. Controls for off-road modes and all-wheel drive are now grouped for easy access, and the BEV gets a futuristic shift-by-wire selector. Connectivity gets a major upgrade too - wireless charging, new USB ports, and app integration via MyToyota, allowing drivers and fleet managers to monitor everything from fuel levels to EV charge status. For the first time, the Hilux gets electric power steering, making it easier to handle without losing that rugged, go-anywhere feel. Toyota’s T-Mate safety suite now includes even more driver aids like Low Speed Acceleration Suppression, Proactive Driving Assist, Blind Spot Monitoring, and an Emergency Driving Stop System.
The all-electric Hilux BEV represents Toyota’s biggest step forward since the nameplate debuted back in 1968. It’s powered by a 59.2 kWh lithium-ion battery, driving front and rear eAxles for permanent all-wheel drive and instant torque. With 205 Nm at the front and 268 Nm at the rear, it delivers serious off-road grunt without a drop of fuel burned. Despite the batteries, it retains the same wading depth as the diesel model, a 715 kg payload, and a 1,600 kg towing capacity. The Multi-Terrain Select system uses smart torque and brake control to adapt to mud, sand, snow - whatever’s under those tyres - matching the feel of low-range driving in a conventional Hilux. With a range of around 240 km, Toyota’s targeting best-in-class charging times to keep downtime minimal.
For those not quite ready to cut the cord, the Hybrid 48V Hilux bridges the gap perfectly. Under the bonnet, a 2.8-litre turbodiesel teams up with a 48V lithium-ion battery, motor-generator, and DC-DC converter to deliver smoother power, improved fuel efficiency, and quieter operation. The system adds electric torque at low revs, making take-off and towing more effortless than ever. The hybrid components are built tough - the motor-generator sits high in the bay, ensuring the bakkie retains its 700 mm wading depth, 1 ton payload and 3.5 ton towing ability. While electrified options lead the charge in Western markets, Toyota isn’t leaving its loyal customers behind. Other markets will still have the option of combustion power - a beefier 2.8-litre diesel and the tried-and-tested 2.7-litre petrol. Pricing will be interesting, and how it will be received in a bakkie-loving, EV-hating market like ours might mean an interesting future for the Hilux.
Take a look at the YouTube video from the chaps that know about these things, Car Expert, and see what they have to say about the all-new flagship of the Toyota bakkie range: 2026 Toyota HiLux first look: Has Toyota dropped the ball? | CarExpert
Be sure to check out our YouTube channel here for more exciting and exclusive SXdrv content! And don't forget to smash that subscribe button!