Toyota’s Hilux Pickup Truck
Redesigned model planned after 9 years
Major changes in appearance
Toyota’s mid-sized pickup truck, the Hilux, is preparing for a major redesign, marking the 9th generation of the model. Expected to be unveiled as early as this year, the new Hilux is set to make waves in the market nearly a decade after the last major update. The Hilux has been a key player in Toyota’s global lineup since its debut in 1968, though it was discontinued in the Japanese market after the 6th generation.
Since then, the 7th generation has been launched exclusively in markets outside Japan, while the 8th generation Hilux was first introduced globally in 2015 and re-released in Japan in 2017 after a 13-year hiatus. After nearly nine years since the 8th generation’s launch, the Hilux is set for a next-generation update.
New Hilux Rendering Unveiled
Design Cues Sharing with Toyota Tundra
Ahead of the official release, overseas virtual designer Theottle has created and presented a rendering of the Hilux. It is based on the body of the Toyota Tacoma and has applied some of the Tundra’s design elements. The new Hilux is expected to share many aspects of its exterior design based on the same body-on-frame TNGA-F platform as the Tundra.
With the TNGA-F platform, the body size is expected to be larger than before, and a major design change is expected to follow. If we look closer at the new Hilux in the rendering, we can see its design with sharp ends like the Tundra’s headlamps. However, unlike the Tundra’s headlamps, which protrude downward in a T shape, they are configured in a horizontal type.
Honeycomb Grille Pattern and Bold Frame Highlight Front End
The thick frame emphasizes the octagonal grille’s solid appearance. At the bottom of the grille, a bumper with a protruding feel extends outward and harmonizes with the design. A hexagonal honeycomb pattern is applied to the inside of the grille, and Toyota’s large lettering is placed at the top. Below the bumper, a horizontal air intake and a bumper cover are installed to protect the lower body.
The side features angular cladding in black high-gloss material, side steps, and a chrome line along the window line. The B-pillar is finished in black. The rear features vertical tail lights with a recessed detail on the side of the tail lights. The tailgate features a handle and trapezoidal engraving. The angular bumper and rear steps are below.
Gasoline and Diesel Hybrid Options
Diverse Powertrain Lineup Expected
For the powertrain, a 2.4L gasoline turbo engine and a hybrid system combining an electric motor with a 2.4L gasoline turbo engine will be applied. For diesel, a hybrid system equipped with an electric motor will be provided based on two specifications: a 2.4L diesel turbo and a 2.8L diesel turbo.
An electric vehicle model equipped with a battery is expected to be launched in the future. Since an electric motor drives it, we can expect improved interior quietness and output performance. The 9th generation Hilux, launched next year, is expected to have high expectations for improved product quality through redesign, as the Mitsubishi Triton is considered a strong competitor.
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