Toyota’s iconic pickup returns with a more premium cabin, refined styling and the same dependable diesel engine, starting at Rs 31.99 lakh.
The Toyota Hilux is one of Toyota’s most recognised nameplates globally and the pickup has earned a reputation for being virtually indestructible. While the overall robustness remains intact in its latest avatar, Toyota has refined the overall package to appeal to younger buyers.
Exterior
Up front, the new Hilux adopts a more sophisticated design with a small blacked-out grille featuring bold Toyota lettering. There is no chrome in sight and, while it does take away some of the ruggedness of the previous model, it helps the Hilux blend in better with urban traffic.
While the front may look more city-friendly, this is still a massive vehicle when viewed in profile. Measuring 5.3 metres from bumper to bumper, the Hilux is as long as a Mercedes-Benz S-Class. Adding to its butch stance are the black plastic-clad wheel arches that house 17-inch black alloy wheels.
The rear is where the resemblance to the previous generation is most noticeable. Being a utility pickup, the rear bumper is finished in black to better resist scratches while loading and unloading cargo. A thoughtful addition is the integrated rear bumper side step, making it easier to access the cargo bed without opening the tailgate.
Interior and Features
Like the exterior, the interior feels far more modern and less utilitarian than before. The dashboard is finished in soft-touch materials, while a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen dominates the centre console. It supports wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay and also offers wireless smartphone charging.
The Hilux also gets a 360-degree camera, front and rear parking sensors and a tyre pressure monitoring system. These features make manoeuvring such a large pickup through city traffic or into tight parking spaces much less intimidating.
The fully digital instrument cluster and improved material quality make the Hilux feel more like a premium SUV than a bare-bones pickup.
Overall, these additions elevate the cabin considerably. However, one obvious omission is ventilated front seats, which we believe should have been standard at this price point.
Engine
The Hilux continues to use Toyota’s familiar 2.8-litre diesel engine, producing 204bhp and 500Nm of torque. Unlike the Fortuner, however, the Hilux will only be available with a six-speed torque-converter automatic transmission and will be offered in both 4×2 and 4×4 configurations.
The absence of a manual gearbox is notable, although Toyota has not confirmed whether the next-generation Fortuner will also become automatic-only.
Pricing
The Hilux continues to occupy a niche segment in India, where it is seen as both a lifestyle vehicle for weekend adventures and a capable utility pickup. Reflecting this positioning, the entry-level GX 4×2 AT is priced at Rs 31.99 lakh, followed by the GX 4×4 AT at Rs 33.69 lakh, while the top-spec VX 4×4 AT costs Rs 36.69 lakh (all prices, ex-showroom).
Its only direct rival remains the ageing Isuzu V-Cross. While the Isuzu is a capable pickup in its own right, the Hilux benefits from Toyota’s stronger brand appeal and reliability image.
