Toyota Hilux Ninth-Generation Pickup Revealed with Electric, Hybrid, ICE, Hydrogen Powertrain Options

Toyota has unveiled the ninth-generation Hilux in Bangkok, featuring electric, hybrid, internal combustion, and hydrogen powertrains as part of its carbon neutrality strategy. The Hilux BEV, launching in December 2025, boasts a 59.2kWh battery with a range of 240–300 km. A 48V hybrid diesel model will follow in 2026, while hydrogen versions are set for 2028. The new design emphasizes durability with enhanced safety features and advanced connectivity options, catering to evolving consumer preferences in Asian markets.

Photo : TIMES DRIVE

Toyota Hilux Ninth-Generation Pickup Revealed with Electric, Hybrid, ICE, Hydrogen Powertrain Options

Toyota has today taken the wraps off the ninth-generation Hilux at a global event in Bangkok, Thailand. Introducing the new-generation Hilux, the company outlined that it will get - electric, hybrid, internal combustion and hydrogen powertrain options. This move aligns with Toyota’s multi-pathway plan toward carbon neutrality. This model can also serve as the base for the next-gen Fortuner SUV, a product which enjoys immense popularity in the Indian market.

Powertrain Options

The rollout begins with the Hilux BEV in December 2025, followed by the 48V hybrid diesel in spring 2026. Internal combustion options - a 2.8-litre diesel and a 2.7-litre petrol - will continue in selected markets such as Eastern Europe and parts of Asia. Toyota has also confirmed a hydrogen fuel cell Hilux for 2028, which will launch first in Europe and Oceania, where hydrogen infrastructure is developing.

Electric Hilux

The Toyota Hilux BEV gets a 59.2kWh lithium-ion battery paired with dual eAxles for permanent all-wheel drive. Preliminary figures indicate an output of 144kW, a range of around 240–300 km (WLTP), a payload capacity of about 715kg and a towing limit of up to 1,600kg. The electric Hilux retains its body-on-frame construction and includes Multi-Terrain Select off-road control, maintaining the pickup’s durability in off-road use.

Hilux Diesel

The Hilux 2.8D 48V hybrid is expected to be the volume seller for Toyota. It gets the 2.8L diesel engine paired with a 48V mild-hybrid system featuring a motor generator and a compact lithium-ion battery. The diesel version is scheduled to be introduced in mid-2026.

Design

The all new ninth-generation Toyota Hilux models adopt the Double Cab body style, based on customer preference trends. The new exterior design features a squared stance, slim horizontal headlamps connected by a central bar with the Toyota branding and redesigned side steps and rear deck step for easier cargo access. The BEV version distinguishes itself with a closed-off front fascia for improved aerodynamics.

Interior & Features

On the inside the cabin design draws inspiration from the latest Toyota Land Cruiser models. It features a horizontally oriented dashboard, a fully digital 12.3-inch instrument display and a touchscreen of up to 12.3 inches. Connectivity and fleet management are handled via the 'MyToyota' app, which allows remote monitoring of location, fuel or charge status and driving data for multiple vehicles. Wireless charging and additional USB ports are standard across variants.

Safety

The new Hilux integrates the latest Toyota Safety Sense and T-Mate technologies, which include Proactive Driving Assist, Emergency Driving Stop, Low-Speed Acceleration Suppression, Blind Spot Monitoring, Safe Exit Assist, and a Driver Monitor Camera. Over-the-air update capability has been added to keep software and safety systems current.

Regional Rollout

Toyota has shared that it will commence with the rollout of the BEV variant in markets such as Thailand and other Asian regions from late 2025, followed by Europe in 2026. A diesel-powered version for Japan is scheduled for mid-2026. Toyota has not yet confirmed India-specific details, but the Hilux continues to be part of the brand’s strategy for Asian markets.

Hydrogen Hilux

Toyota’s hydrogen fuel cell Hilux is scheduled to be introduced in 2028. The vehicle will employ Toyota’s latest fuel cell technology, underlining the brand’s continued development of hydrogen as a clean energy solution for heavy-duty and commercial applications.
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