TOYOTA PREVIEWS ELECTRIC HILUX AT THE 2026 BRUSSELS MOTOR SHOW - WILL IT BE AS POPULAR AS THE ICE VERSION?
Certain names in the automotive world feel untouchable. Hilux is one of them. A bakkie with a reputation forged in mines, farms, war zones and the occasional Top Gear-induced act of mechanical cruelty. Now, at the 2026 Brussels Motor Show, Toyota has done something that would make many lifelong Hilux loyalists raise an eyebrow, clutch their keys a little tighter and mutter under their snors. The ninth-generation Toyota Hilux has arrived, and for the first time in its long, hard-working life, it’s going fully electric. This European debut marks a major milestone for a nameplate with more than 50 years of history and over 27 million units sold globally. Yet Toyota insists this isn’t a betrayal of Hilux values. Quite the opposite. The brand’s sacred trinity of Quality, Durability and Reliability remains at the heart of the new model, even as electrons join diesel in the engine bay conversation.
Rather than forcing one solution on everyone, Toyota is sticking firmly to its multi-path strategy. Translation: choose your poison. The all-new Hilux will be offered with two electrified powertrains in Europe. First, a 2.8-litre diesel with a 48V mild-hybrid system, expected to be the volume seller. Second, the headline grabber: the Hilux BEV, the first battery-electric Hilux to ever reach production. In selected markets, traditional diesel and petrol options will continue to serve those who prefer their fuel old-school and flammable.
All versions shown in Brussels arrive exclusively in double-cab form, reflecting customer demand for a bakkie that can graft during the week and behave like a civilised family vehicle on weekends. Inside, the cabin gets a comfort and tech upgrade, backed by Toyota’s comprehensive T-Mate safety and driver assistance systems.
For many buyers, especially those who tow heavy loads and rack up long distances, the Hybrid 48V diesel will be the sweet spot. Based on the proven 2.8-litre engine, the system adds a 48V lithium-ion battery to smooth out start-up, improve low-speed refinement and reduce fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions. Crucially, nothing important is lost. Payload remains at one tonne, towing capacity stays at a stout 3.5 tons, and water wading capability holds firm at 700 mm. The hybrid hardware is packaged to preserve Hilux’s legendary go-anywhere attitude.
Then there’s the wildcard. The Hilux BEV takes the idea of the “unbreakable” bakkie and adds a silent twist. Powered by a 59.2 kWh lithium-ion battery, it uses front and rear eAxles to deliver permanent all-wheel drive. Torque output stands at 205 Nm at the front and 268 Nm at the rear, delivered instantly and without drama. Final range figures show up to 257 km of combined range, stretching to 380 km in urban use. Payload drops slightly to 715 kg, and towing capacity is rated at 1.6 tons, but for many urban fleets and business users operating in low-emission zones, that trade-off will be acceptable. Importantly, Toyota hasn’t softened the Hilux formula. Ground clearance is 212 mm, wading depth remains 700 mm, and the body-on-frame chassis stays intact. A BEV-specific Multi-Terrain Select system adapts braking and torque delivery to maintain control in tough conditions, while electric power steering and carefully tuned suspension deliver stability and comfort. Shift-by-wire technology completes the modernisation, making gear selection smooth and intuitive.
For markets like South Africa, where Hilux loyalty borders on obsession, the electric version will undoubtedly stir debate. If it ever lands locally, expect curiosity, skepticism and plenty of braai-side arguments. Odds are the diesel models will continue to dominate sales by a landslide.
Take a look at the YouTube video that sees the Autogefühl chaps take a look at the new electric Hilux while comparing it to the fan-favourite diesel version: all-new Toyota Hilux first tour! (2026) diesel vs EV | Autogefühl