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One change for the 2016 Hilux is the removal of the low-range four-wheel drive gear lever, which has been replaced by a switch.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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ive had hilux’s for thirty years for my business,, my wife drives a rav, and my private motor is a landcruiser, and now this fiasco with us not getting the 2.8 l in the new lux’s. well today i drove a vw touareg and loved it. if toyota wont supply us with the engine of our choice then its simple,, i’ll buy seven vehicles a year off some other manufacturer. after reading the remarks on the net about this tonight my mind is made up.. i have brand loyalty, and have purchased nothing but toyotas for years, but loyalty goes both ways. and i for one won’t be begging toyota to let us have the larger engine in the lux’s, let them find out the hard way.
Hi Alan,
We’re sorry to hear you feel this way. Have you had a test drive in the 2016 Hilux?
Having read most of these comments, I really think it’s time Toyota really did think about putting a decent sized engine in the hilux, I no longer have a hilux due to the reason of the pathetic 2.4 and possibly 2.8 variants available, being a engineer and understanding there thoughts with smaller engines, it’s not what is wanted if a commercial vehicle, I’m a believer in lead the game, don’t be lead, all other manufacturers have choosen smaller engines, and then Vw blew the pick-up world apart by announcing their 3ltr v6, Nissan Navara D40 did this years ago and that engine is brilliant (even though it’s a Renault commercial engine), so Toyota it’s time to pick-up your game and start leading again, don’t be the sheep on the farm
Our two 3.0 hilux 2012 are now overdue being replaced as I have been waiting for Toyota to put an actual engine rather than a sewing machine in the new hilux. First we waited for the new hilux and were very keen on placing an order…. then with great disappointment we learn that they only offer a tiddly little 2.4 litre.. so have been waiting for them to announce a decent engine. It is now getting silly waiting any longer so have started to test drive others. New hilux is great.. but gutless. The new Amarock is expensive.. but also has a far superior engine and when you include its higher trade in price it costs around £6k (my own estimate..probably wrong.. but it is my own cheque book and responsibility!) more than the hilux over 4 years.. not a massive deterrent to most top of the range pick up buyers.. so unless Toyota announce a larger engine soon I’m sad to say that after 17 years of Being Toyota owners we will be moving over to VW pick ups.. There is only so long loyal customers can wait around for.
Had my 2.4 since last July I would still recommend one despite the small low power engine it’s good on fuel too I would like to think the Toyota GB marketing department will be looking at engine options along with omissions like DAB radio and the technical department looking at the pessimistic fuel gauge that says empty with about 20 liters remaining …
I’m sure it’s fine on the road (as long as you are not swerving to avoid a moose……) but what is it like towing a couple of tonnes?? Hopefully they have also realised that putting the trailer electric socket at the lowest point on the towbar isn’t a great idea on an off-road vehicle!
I’m sure it’s good on the road (unless you are swerving to avoid a moose…) but what is it like towing a couple of tonnes?? And have they worked out that putting the trailer electric socket at the lowest point on the towbar isn’t the cleverest idea on an off-road vehicle??
I have had mine for a month now and I must say even with my concerns of smaller engine, it’s towing has exceeded expectation. We waited till it came out at 3.5 t tow as we are on the limit with what we tow. The engine is more than capable and tows well. I find it a bit more thirsty on general driving than my old 3 litre., but far better drive.
Which one is faster ?
I regularly carry 750kg on the pickup with a 2 tonne load on the towbar. My 3ltr copes well with this on the very steep hills in my area. I doubt if the new one would do this but my local dealership offered me a test drive to prove the point. Big snag.. they would not fit a towbar to the test vehicle unless I agreed to buy the vehicle! Not very clever sales pitch!
‘Are Toyota reading these emails’ is a frequently asked question. Ford certainly are. My local dealership has offered me a 3.2 Ranger at a very attractive price with an ‘exclusive discount for Toyota customers! I am not VAT registered so usually absorb the VAT charge myself. Ford’s offer is good enough to cancel out my VAT loss.
Come on Toyota, wake up before it’s too late!
A big thanks to Toyota GB. for only selling the hi lux 2.4 cripple.
If the 2.8 would have been an option we would have ordered 3 on the nod like we have done every 3 years for the last 32 years. On Saturday the first of 3no 3L amaroks arrived .WOW !
Don’t moan about Toyotas cripple just go out for a test drive in a 3L amarok and get your eyes opened to what you have been missing.
Then think why there is a 4 month wait for the VW. and why Toyota dealers are selling the 2.4 cripple 15% off list through brokers and only a few days delivery.
Hi Pete,
We’re sorry to hear that you’re not happy with the 2.4 engine. Have you had a test drive in one of these models? We think you could change your mind!
Ella see my comment I hav trialled an empty 2.4 against my loaded 3.0 to even get near the performance of mine it got noisy being hammered as that’s how ours are driven carrying 1 ton of recovery equipment and tools I will probably be looking at the ranger 3.2 next unless you come up with something better
Hi Pete,
We’re sorry to hear that you’re not happy with the 2.4 engine. Have you had a test drive in one of these models? We think you could change your mind!
Another blog from pete, at 6:30 on Saturday up for 2 minutes and then taken down, sensorship, what are Toyota frightened of.
Hi Matt,
Comments may go live shortly after a comment has been submitted. They will then disappear as they go into a folder for approval. Due to no-one monitoring blog comments over the weekend, it means Pete’s comment has been responded to this morning. Many thanks.
Am I not allowed to make any comments now either…. comments removed again
Hi Matt,
As stated in a previous reply, comments may appear briefly after you submit them. They then go into an approval folder and will be either posted or responded to when back in the office. Due to your comments being posted over the weekend, we are in the process of reading them and replying. Many thanks.