The new 2016 Toyota Hilux, unveiled at the 2016 Geneva motor show, is the latest link in the chain of exceptional Hilux models dating back to 1968.
It offers an even tougher chassis, enhanced 4×4 capability, practicality and functionality, better safety features and an even more appealing cost of ownership – not to mention the new styling and improved comfort.
Here’s our rundown of exactly what’s changed for the new Hilux compared with the outgoing model.
Engine and powertrain
The new 2016 Toyota Hilux will be available with a new 2.4-litre D-4D diesel engine, in two- or four-wheel drive variants and with either an uprated 6-speed manual transmission or a new 6-speed automatic.
The new engine has vastly improved torque delivery in the low and medium speed ranges, as well as class-leading fuel economy. As well as having a lower environmental impact, the engine is also far more responsive than before.
One change for the 2016 Hilux is the removal of the low-range four-wheel drive gear lever, which has been replaced by a switch. This is easier to operate and improves the system’s durability and reliability – and only makes it possible to engage low-range gears when it is safe to do so.
See the key engine specs at the bottom of the page.
Chassis and suspension
Compared with the current Hilux, the torsional rigidity of the new model’s chassis has increased by 20 per cent – making it even more stable and strong. New suspension has furthered off-road capability as well as producing improved SUV-like ride comfort.
Dimensions and weights
The new 2016 Toyota Hilux is longer and wider than the outgoing model, with a lower overall height. The wheelbase remains the same.
Due to the new reinforced ladder chassis, increased equipment and additional safety features, the new model weighs 2,100kg* – a 180kg increase on the outgoing model. *subject to homologation
| New Hilux | Current Hilux | |
| Length (mm) | 5,335 (+75) | 5,260 |
| Width (mm) | 1,855 (+20) | 1,835 |
| Height (mm) | 1,815 (-45) | 1,860 |
| Wheelbase (mm) | 3,085 (+0) | 3,085 |
| Curb weight (kg) | TBC (subject to homologation) | 1,920 |
Towing capacity
The maximum towing capacity of the new Hilux is 3.5 tons*.
*subject to UK homologation, may be listed as 3.2 tons in other markets.
In the back
The rear deck has a class-leading maximum width of 1,645mm (124mm more than before), and it’s stronger – with redesigned floor ribs and a reinforced header panel. The tailgate now features stronger link-type tailgate hinges and heavy duty steel plate brackets, to keep your kit super-secure.
Measurements and specifications may vary, depending on cab type.
Looks and exterior design
Hilux now has Toyota’s ‘Keen Look’ styling on the headlamps and upper grille. The bumper has a more expressive shape and a larger lower grille, while the placement of the fog lights and wrap-around headlamps emphasise its width.
At the side, the wheel arches are more pronounced, yet seamlessly integrated into the body shell. A new styling line links the front and rear wheels before curving upwards to anchor the wrap-around rear lamp clusters. The B-pillar is also blacked out within the smooth, rear-slanted silhouette of the cabin, while a new chrome belt-line links the cab and rear deck. There will also be a choice of new 17- and 18-inch alloy wheels.
Viewed from the rear, the Hilux shows off new lamp clusters, a bumper set lower to the ground and with a lower step for improved access. The rear view handle is now integrated into the handle assembly.
The roof aerial has been repositioned from the rear to the front, and the roof itself now has V-shape contours to channel air to the sides of the vehicle, rather than toward the deck or tailgate, where it can create drag.
The interior
Inside, new Hilux has more equipment and better quality materials.
The new features available on Hilux (depending on model trim level and specification) include a new tablet-like 7-inch touch screen multimedia system (see below); a new driver’s instrument binnacle with a full 4.2-inch TFT information display; a new steering wheel with integrated switchgear; a shortened gear lever; a six-speaker audio system; and a new air-conditioning system with new air vents.
Soft-touch materials are now in place on elements like the armrests, while the metallic-coated styling elements create a more cohesive look. All of the interior lighting is now blue, adding to the harmonious feel.
Leather upholstery is only available on top-spec models, while mid grade versions get high-quality fabric. Entry grade models are available with a tough, hard-wearing material ideal for business users.
Interior storage
The Hilux can carry plenty on its flat-bed, but there’s lots of storage spaces inside the cabin too. It has a split-level glove box – the lower section is lockable, while the upper part is connected to the air-con and can act as a cool box for two 500ml bottles.
Other storage includes: a centre console box equipped with a 220V power socket; an overhead sunglass holder; dashboard-mounted cup holders; a large cup holder and storage tray between the drivers and front passenger, which has two 12 V sockets and AUX and USB ports; a rear armrest with twin cupholders; pockets and convenience to the front seat backs; rear ceiling hooks; and under-seat storage compartments in the rear.
Multimedia and navigation
The new Hilux is equipped with Toyota Touch 2 audio, or Touch 2 with Go navigation, depending on grade.
The touch screen is now measures 7 inches corner-to-corner, up from 6.1 inches in the outgoing model. All controls have been integrated into the capacitive touchscreen, which is now a completely flat panel. The screen is easier to use than before, as well as more readable.
Where is the Toyota Hilux made?
The 2016 Hilux models that arrive in the UK and western Europe will be produced in South Africa at Toyota South Africa Motors. The 2.4 D-4D engines are made in Japan and the gearboxes are made in Thailand, Philliphines and India (manuals) or Japan (automatics).
Globally, Hilux will be made in six locations: Thailand, Argentina, Malaysia, Venezuela, Pakistan and South Africa.
The car was designed in Japan and its chief engineer is Hiroki Nakajima.
Engine specifications
| New 2.4 D-4D 4WD manual | Current 2.5 D-4D 4WD manual | |
| Displacement (cm3) | 2,393 | 2,494 |
| Max power (DIN hp) | 150 | 144 |
| Max torque (Nm/rpm) | 400 / 1,600-2,000 | 343 / 1,600-2,800 |
| 0-62mph (secs) | TBC | 13.3 |
| Max speed (mph / kph) | TBC | 105 / 170 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 39 mpg | 39 mpg |
| CO2 emissions (g/km) | TBC | 194 |
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I doubt that the max. speed of a Hilux is 170mph … 😉
Hi Heidfirst. Thanks for your comment. Top speed for new Hilux is indicated in mph/kph. Top speed is 105 mph / 170 kph!
Seems very unpowered at 150bhp when compared with the rivals!
Hi Lee. Thanks for your comment. Although horsepower is down, torque is well up over the last model, at 400 Nm. New Hilux also has class-leading fuel efficiency and can tow 3.5 tonnes. We’d love for you to try one!
Hi Matt,
There is a 2.8 engine model in Thailand – will we be getting this in UK?
Swaying towards the more powerful new Navara at present – seems a shame – had three Hilux’s in a row.
Thanks, Lee
Hi Lee. Thanks for your loyalty and continued support. Unfortunately, we have no news regarding additional powertrains for the UK market. Although the 2.4 is slightly down on horsepower, torque and fuel economy have both been improved. It has an even tougher chassis, enhanced 4×4 capability, practicality and functionality, better safety features and an even more appealing cost of ownership. We’d strongly suggest that you take a test drive before ruling it out.
Safety features include the rear reversing sensors that don’t work and the forward camera system that will need a fix.
It struggles with 3.5 Ton, believe me, we tow every day and had one from the dealer last week and it was flat as a pancake!!! Our 2015 3 L uses les to the gallon pulling the same weight, the new one was reving it’s butt off, and with that softer suspension it’s not as stable!!! I should know I have had 17 hilux trucks… Toyota need to stop pulling the wool over customers eyes… very disappointed.. especially as I will now have to look at the competition
Hi Totally agree with Lee new Hilux is anemic especially with heavier loads towing, don’t care what toyota uk say about torque being higher it cannot tow worth a f### compared to the old 3 L. My new model Hilux is for sale if anyone wants it not sure if it will be the Nissan or the ford that i change it for but it is my 5th Hilux in a row and before the new model I wouldn’t have bought anything else
Poor offering Toyota
Sorry ment Glenn not Lee
The quoted higher torque is a figure that is relevant for a few hundred RPM, the 3 litre has high torque across the full rev range. The comparisons TGB make on performance are vs the old 2.5 not the 3.0.
TGB have had enough owners (not prospective owners) tell them they want a bigger diesel or a V6/V8 petrol.
There are enough emission compliant engines in the Toyota range that would be more than adequate.
Id personally like a Tundra V8 if it was available in RHD. Interestingly the Yanks would like a Tundra with a diesel (Cummins) V8 engine and despite there being a market Toyota has not provided in each model revision.
We all know diesels days are limited however until the viable alternative is here the customer should be put first.
Come on TGB make it easy for me to order another new Hilux
Well said, I have now tried the wildtrack, build quality not good, but can pull the weight, and very noisy!! The rest are garbage, Amarok is not bad.. looking at importing a 2.8 hilux now
There is a cure search internet for Steinbauer you get 480nm of torque and 177bhp and never less than 32mpg so you a nice new vehicle and it’s leaps more powerful and better fuel than the old hilux and loaded in the tub the wildtrak struggles to keep up with it and Steinbauer have a uk rep
Any idea when it will be available to purchase in UK??
Third Hilux we will have had in Three years IF it is available very soon
Good morning. Thanks for your message and for your interest in the new Hilux. We have no specific release date at this time, but we expect an announcement very shortly. We appreciate that purchasing a vehicle is often time sensitive, and we apologise that we cannot give you more concrete information at this time. Please stay tuned to the blog and our social networking channels for an imminent announcement. Thanks.
Can’t wait I’ve had 3 and they are a world leader for me
Will there be an option to nominate All Terrain tyres. Road tyres on a off road vehicle not great.
Hi John,
Thank you for your post. We have checked this with our product team, and the 2016 Hilux will be supplied with standard tyres. However if you were wanting ot change these to All Terrain tyres your local Toyota Dealer will be able to help with this. Many thanks.
Will it have all round view camera?
Hi Sam,
Thank you for your post. We have checked with our product team and 2016 Hilux will come with a reversing camera. More specifications and details will be released throughout the year so stay tuned to our blog for the latest news and features. Many thanks.
I cannot understand why the Aussi, NZ and South African markets got the new 2.8 engined version from launch but its rumoured the UK will have to wait till 2017
Hi Dave,
Thank you for your post. Unfortunately, we have no news regarding additional powertrains for the UK market. Although the 2.4 is slightly down on horsepower, torque and fuel economy have both been improved. It has an even tougher chassis, enhanced 4×4 capability, practicality and functionality, better safety features and an even more appealing cost of ownership. Please stay tuned to the blog and our social networking channels for the latest news. Hope this helps a little further and if you have any more questions please let us know.
What warranty will there be? Heard it is likely still to be 3 years or 60,000 miles which is well behind competition?
Hi John,
Thank you for your post. We have no news at present, however more details and specifications will be released later this year. Keep an eye on our blog for more news on Hilux. Many thanks.
Will the new model have 3, 3 point seat belt in the rear?
Do we have a UK release date yet? Will the HiLux still be class as a commercial vehicle?