New 2026 Toyota Hilux: Redesign, Price and Specs, What’s New
The Toyota Hilux is one of the most legendary pickup trucks in the world, known for its toughness, reliability, and off-road prowess. As Toyota gears up to release its next-generation Hilux, fans and truck buyers have been eagerly anticipating major upgrades—but recent spy shots from Thailand suggest that the new model may not be as revolutionary as expected. So, what’s changing with the new 2026 Toyota Hilux, and what’s staying the same? Let’s break down everything you need to know about Toyota’s upcoming workhorse.
A Familiar Platform: The Big Letdown?
One of the most disappointing discoveries about the next-generation 2026 Toyota Hilux is that it appears to be built on a carryover platform—the same IMV platform that has been around since 2004. While this platform was significantly updated in 2015, it’s still considered ancient by modern automotive standards. If you’re not familiar with the term, a platform refers to the underlying structure of a vehicle, including its chassis, drivetrain, electrical systems, and overall dimensions.
Most experts and fans expected Toyota to transition the new 2026 Toyota Hilux to the TNGA-F platform, which is Toyota’s new modular platform used in models like the Land Cruiser 300 Series, Lexus LX, Tundra, and 4Runner. This platform allows for better technology sharing, improved performance, and enhanced safety features. But Toyota isn’t making that leap—at least not yet.
Why Is Toyota Sticking with the Old Platform?
The main reason is likely cost and reliability. The IMV platform has been tested for 20 years in some of the world’s toughest environments. Sticking with it means Toyota doesn’t need to completely redesign the truck from the ground up. However, this decision limits how much Toyota can modernize the 2026 Toyota Hilux, especially in areas like ride comfort, interior space, and advanced technology.
A Glimpse into the Future of Toyota’s Iconic Pickup
Toyota’s legendary Hilux is gearing up for a major transformation, and a recent trademark filing hints at what’s to come. On December 23, 2024, the name “Hilux Travo” was officially registered with Thailand’s Department of Intellectual Property (DIP). This has sparked widespread speculation that the upcoming ninth-generation 2026 Toyota Hilux could adopt this new moniker, at least in certain markets.
If history is any guide, the “Travo” badge might follow the naming pattern set by its predecessors—the eighth-generation Hilux Revo and the seventh-gen Hilux Vigo. However, in most global markets, Toyota is likely to keep things simple, sticking with the universally recognized Hilux name. After all, why change something that people already know and trust?
Exterior Changes: A Fresh Look with Some Tweaks
While the platform remains the same, the exterior design of the 2026 Toyota Hilux is getting a refresh.
Key Design Updates:
- New headlights – The shape and design have been updated for a more modern look.
- Redesigned front grille – Featuring a larger, more aggressive appearance.
- Revised hood and bumper – A completely new hood design and reshaped bumper for a bolder stance.
- Updated rear end – While dimensions remain similar, the tailgate and taillights have been slightly revised.
One interesting addition is an air dam beneath the headlights. While it’s unclear if this is functional, it could be aimed at aerodynamic improvements to enhance fuel efficiency.
Toyota is not significantly widening the new 2026 Toyota Hilux, unlike some competitors like the Ford Ranger and Chinese pickups that are adopting wider body designs for better road presence and stability. While Toyota can make minor tweaks to wheel arches (like in the GR Sport and Rogue models), the core width of the vehicle won’t change due to the carryover platform.
Interior: What to Expect
Inside, don’t expect drastic changes. Because the width of the vehicle remains the same, interior space, particularly rear legroom, will likely be similar to the current Hilux.
However, Toyota will likely introduce new technology updates:
- Upgraded infotainment system – Expect a larger touchscreen with features borrowed from the Land Cruiser and Prado.
- New digital instrument cluster – A more modern, high-resolution display.
- Improved materials – Higher-quality plastics and fabrics for a more refined cabin feel.
Despite these changes, the overall interior layout will remain familiar, meaning the Hilux’s interior may not feel as modern as some newer rivals.
Engines: Any Big Upgrades?
The new 2026 Toyota Hilux is expected to retain its 2.8L diesel engine, which currently produces 500Nm of torque. However, Toyota may make small tweaks to improve fuel efficiency and emissions compliance.
Will There Be a Hybrid Option?
Toyota has been a leader in hybrid technology, but a Hilux hybrid launch seems unlikely—at least initially. Here’s why:
- The IMV platform is not designed for plug-in hybrid (PHEV) systems.
- Toyota has historically favored traditional hybrids over plug-in hybrids in its work vehicles.
- A diesel-hybrid system is possible, but not yet confirmed.
Interestingly, spy photos of the 2026 Toyota Hilux testing in Thailand show a Ford Ranger Stormtrak in the background—this is the plug-in hybrid (PHEV) version of the Ranger. Toyota could be testing against this model, which hints that they may be considering hybrid technology in the future.
Braking System & Safety Features
Toyota has already introduced disc brakes on the rear axle in some variants like the Hilux Rogue and GR Sport. This upgrade is expected to carry over to the new model, providing better stopping power and overall safety. Some budget-focused rivals like the Mitsubishi Triton are still launching with drum brakes in 2024, which makes Toyota’s move to disc brakes a welcome upgrade.
Expect the latest Toyota Safety Sense (TSS) suite to be included, with:
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- Lane Departure Warning
- Automatic Emergency Braking
- Blind Spot Monitoring
Current Toyota Hilux VS new 2026 Toyota Hilux
| Feature | Current Toyota Hilux (Pre-2025) | New 2026 Toyota Hilux |
|---|---|---|
| Platform | IMV platform (since 2004, updated in 2015) | Carryover of IMV platform (no shift to TNGA-F) |
| Engine Options | 2.8L turbo diesel (500Nm torque) | Likely the same 2.8L turbo diesel with minor tweaks |
| Mild Hybrid | Introduced recently (48V system) | Expected to continue with enhancements |
| Plug-in Hybrid | Not available | Unconfirmed, but unlikely |
| Front Design | Standard headlights and grille | New headlights, larger grille, revised bumper |
| Rear Design | Standard taillights, basic tailgate | Possible LED taillights, integrated side step |
| Brakes | Rear drum brakes on lower trims, disc brakes on high-end trims (GR Sport, Rogue) | Rear disc brakes likely standard |
| Interior Tech | Standard infotainment, basic screens | Newer tech, likely borrowed from Prado |
| Chassis & Payload | Standard dimensions, good load capacity | Similar dimensions, |
| Fuel Efficiency | Decent for a diesel workhorse | Expected slight improvements |
| Emission Standards | Euro 5 (48V mild-hybrid) | Might upgrade to Euro 6 with AdBlue |
| Pricing | Competitive, but rising | Could see price increases |
Key Takeaways:
- No major platform change: Toyota is not adopting the TNGA-F platform (used in Land Cruiser 300, Prado, and Tacoma).
- Likely powertrain carryover: No drastic changes to engines, but mild-hybrid tech remains.
- Design improvements: New front-end styling, possible LED taillights, and minor aerodynamic refinements.
- Interior upgrades: Expect better screens and tech features, but cabin space remains unchanged.
- Possible price increase: Due to emission fines and regulatory changes.
Emissions Regulations & Price Increases
Australia’s new emissions regulations (NVES) could have a major impact on the Hilux’s pricing.
How Do These Regulations Work?
The government is setting emissions limits for car manufacturers. If a company sells too many high-emission vehicles (like diesel trucks), they will be fined. To offset these fines, automakers are likely to raise prices.
This means that Hilux buyers could face price hikes, as Toyota will pass these extra costs onto consumers. If Toyota doesn’t introduce a hybrid or lower-emission variant, the 2026 Toyota Hilux could become significantly more expensive in the near future.
A Long-Overdue Refresh for the Hilux
The current Hilux has been on the road since 2015, making it nearly a decade old. While Toyota has done its best to keep it fresh with updates in 2017, 2020, and most recently in 2024, the truck is starting to show its age. The latest refresh introduced a redesigned front end with a sculpted bumper and a more modern grille, along with a mild-hybrid diesel engine. However, beyond these changes, the Hilux is beginning to lag behind its competitors in both styling and technology.
New 2026 Toyota Hilux Specs
| Specification | New 2026 Toyota Hilux (Expected) |
|---|---|
| Platform | Same IMV platform (carryover) |
| Engine Options | Likely same engine with minor refinements |
| Transmission | Same 6-speed options expected |
| Hybrid System | Expected to continue, possible enhancements |
| Plug-in Hybrid | Unlikely (Toyota prefers regular hybrids) |
| Drivetrain | 4×2 & 4×4 options |
| Max Towing Capacity | Expected to remain similar |
| Payload Capacity | Likely unchanged |
| Fuel Economy | Slight improvement with aero tweaks |
| Emissions Standard | Possible Euro 6 with AdBlue |
| Front Suspension | Same expected |
| Rear Suspension | Likely unchanged |
| Brakes | Rear disc brakes possibly standard |
| Front Design | Redesigned headlights, larger grille |
| Rear Design | LED taillights, integrated side step possible |
| Infotainment | Likely larger screen, updated UI |
| Interior Space | No major space changes (same body width) |
| Launch Date | Early 2025 |
| Price | Expected price increase due to emission regulations |
Key Insights:
- No major mechanical changes: Same IMV platform and powertrain carryover with minor refinements.
- Updated styling: Redesigned front grille, headlights, and taillights for a fresh look.
- Better tech: Likely larger screens and improved infotainment similar to the Prado.
- Slight emission upgrades: May get Euro 6 compliance to avoid fines.
- Price increase expected: Due to stricter emissions rules and inflation.
Is the 2026 Hilux a Hit or Miss?
The 2026 Toyota Hilux will remain a dependable, tough, and capable workhorse, but the lack of a fully modernized platform might be a letdown for some buyers.
What’s Good?
- Proven reliability – The IMV platform has a 20-year track record.
- Updated exterior design – A fresh new look with revised headlights and grille.
- New tech features – A larger infotainment screen, digital gauge cluster, and better safety tech.
- Retaining the strong diesel engine – 2.8L diesel with 500Nm torque is still a workhorse.
- Disc brakes on the rear axle – A much-needed upgrade.
What’s Disappointing?
- No major platform update – Sticking with the old IMV chassis limits future upgrades.
- No confirmed hybrid option – While Toyota might be considering it, there’s no official hybrid yet.
- Potential price increases – Emission regulations may push prices higher.
And those competitors are fiercer than ever. The Ford Ranger, which launched its latest generation in 2021, is set to receive a mid-cycle refresh in 2025, keeping it at the cutting edge. Other key rivals include the Mitsubishi L200/Triton, Isuzu D-Max, Mazda BT-50, Volkswagen Amarok, and the all-new Kia Tasman. Adding to the mix, an increasing number of Chinese contenders—such as the GWM Cannon Ute and the BYD Shark—are stepping up their game with competitive pricing and impressive features.
With such intense competition, Toyota needs to pull out all the stops for the next 2026 Toyota Hilux. The question is, will the “Travo” name be accompanied by groundbreaking changes, or is it just a rebranding exercise? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: the pickup truck market is evolving rapidly, and Toyota will have to innovate to keep the Hilux at the top of its game.
The new 2026 Toyota Hilux is evolutionary rather than revolutionary. For hardcore Toyota fans, it will still be a solid and capable truck, but buyers looking for cutting-edge innovation may find the competition (like the Ford Ranger or new Mitsubishi Triton) more appealing. What do you think? Would you still buy the 2025 Hilux, or is it time to consider other brands? Let us know in the comments!
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