New Toyota Hilux Revealed – This Is What It Will Look Like
Toyota has officially unveiled the next-generation Hilux, marking one of the most awaited automotive launches of the year. The event took place in Thailand, now a key hub for production and initial rollouts of Toyota’s pickup trucks.
This model represents the ninth generation of the Hilux and arrives about ten years after the current version first appeared. The Hilux continues to be South Africa’s top-selling vehicle and is locally built at Toyota’s Prospecton plant in Durban.
The worldwide release of the new Hilux is scheduled for 2026 and will offer a variety of configurations. One of the most significant updates is the addition of a battery electric vehicle (BEV) version, which will be sold alongside refreshed internal combustion engine (ICE) models.
Engine choices and availability will vary by market, so South African buyers must wait for Toyota South Africa Motors (TSAM) to announce the official trims and powertrain details.
Design and Key Features
The new Hilux introduces a more contemporary exterior while keeping its recognizable, rugged silhouette. On ICE models, the most noticeable upgrade is a reimagined honeycomb grille inspired by the latest Corolla Cross.
Slim LED headlights and daytime running lights stretch across the upper front, connected by a dark horizontal strip that replaces the traditional Toyota emblem with prominent “Toyota” lettering.
“The new Hilux combines modern design cues with the durability and identity that have made it a global icon,” said a Toyota spokesperson.
Production and Market Outlook
- Built locally at Toyota’s Prospecton plant in Durban.
- Ninth-generation model after a decade-long run of the outgoing version.
- Global rollout planned for 2026 with BEV and ICE options.
Author’s Summary: The ninth-generation Toyota Hilux combines modern styling, electric power options, and global adaptability while preserving its durable pickup legacy.