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One change for the 2016 Hilux is the removal of the low-range four-wheel drive gear lever, which has been replaced by a switch.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 |
Read more:
This blog is 2016 what’s new for 2017?
What changes will there be to the Hilux??
Hi Finners,
At this moment in time, we have no information of any updates to the 2016 Hilux. If anything changes, any announcements will be made on the blog. Many thanks.
They are going to be fitting the twin turbo V8 diesel from the Land Cruiser 200 series to the Hilux!!! :-)………….Only joking! It’s amazing that, with Land Rover Defenders out of action for two years, Toyota aren’t selling 70 series Land Cruisers here. If ever there was an open goal……..
If a V8 diesel Lux went on sale I would buy one on pre order today.
I don’t think the 70 series comply with the nanmby pampy Euro safety regs , but it is a mystery as to why TGB don’t do a landcrusier van ..
Just got 2.4 invincible x auto, after much disappointment about Toyota GB not offering the 2.8d I decided to get one anyway. It is really good, in a different league to the previous version. I’ve owned every version of Hilux since 1995 and have never been more impressed. Suspension is much smoother, it’s much quieter, well thought out media/nav system, great seats and at least as quick as the 3 litre diesel. Can’t recommend it enough.
Hi Ian,
We’re glad to hear that you’ve changed your mind about the 2.4 engine. We’d love to see a picture of your new Hilux, if you could post one to one of our social channels that’d be great! We hope you enjoy the 2016 Hilux for many years to come.
Lets clear up the performance of the D4D 3litre vs new 2.4
Previous 3litre
Power – 171 BHP
0-60 – 12.1 manual
0-60 – 12.0 Auto
Max Torque 343Nm between 1400 rpm – 3400 rpm (wide flat torque band ideal for towing or accelerating under load)
New 2.4
Power – 150 BHP
0-60 – 12.8 manual
0-60 – 12.3 Auto
Max Torque 400Nm between 1600rpm-2000rpm (400rpm opposed to 2000 rpm)
The “improved torque” is available for such a short rev range its unusable once moving.
Can we please have the 2.8 and a bigger diesel too….come on Toyota fit the 5 litre Cummins diesel or import some RHD Tundras please.
I’ve got a15 month old 3.0 invincible loaded with equipment to the maximum it has done 50000 miles tried new one the other day disappointed using the word it was 6 mph slower up half on hill than my fully loaded one won’t be buying another until bigger engine appears
You’re right about the emissions. I think that is what killed the LC200, and the fact no one wanted a giant bloated whale. Just have to put up with an Amarok V6 until Mr Toyota sees sense!
Yes I have the 2.4with manual trans , yes it’s ok I think we are going to miss out on the 2.8 due to diesel bans in London and soon Birmingham and others we will see a petrol option !!!! Wonder if Toyota GB will lead or follow with a v6 or 2.7 4cyl???
A 3.0 V6 would be the only thing to tempt me out of my ’12 Invincible
Hi guys,
Just been out On test drive with new hilux, plus VW . I have 2 14 plate 3.0 Ltr hilux, the new one is much better drive. It might not be as quick as the VW, but is a much better drive.
The interior of the VW is awful and looks very dated.toyota all the way
2 no invincible X ordered for 1st march
Hi Paul,
We’re very happy to hear you like the new Hilux. We’d love to see a picture of it when it’s delivered!
Paul that’s good mate, I agree the Invincible X is a fine looking truck. I don’t doubt the looks handling, ride and interior.
I have a 2014 3l invincible, with every extra on it. Compared to my 3 litre Invincible 200 I had before its much worse, crap rear diff, down on power interior not as nice….however the 2016/17 addresses the interior and suspension issues……Toyota however IS going backwards in terms of engine performance.
in 2008/9 that had trucks with trick bits on from the showroom with 193 BHP and the decent add on parts.
Now the top spec is 150 BHP with worse torque curve (ie very short work range).
I need to replace my Invincible 2014 next month and I don’t know what to do…..Have driven the hilux and DONT like the performance, love interior and exterior looks. Like the VW’s performance but don’t like the styling of the Amarok. Love the AT35 Isuzu styling and ride, but not sure on the 2.5 twin turbo, and I’ve driven them all.
I could pay good money more than a V6 Amarok for the right truck. Had loads of hiluxs and not sure why Toyota GB doesn’t give the customer what we want.
Enjoy your new trucks 🙂
Hi Robert,
I test drove the new 2.4 auto for a week.thought it was a far superior vehicle than my old one, see if they can loan you one too.
It’s only my opinion, but it’s the best truck out there. I have spent days test driving them!! Good luck.
Hi Paul,
Glad to hear you’re loving the 2.4! Are you planning on purchasing one?
It’s the same with rav4, no AWD diesel model and it’s less powerful than in 2006. I have a T180 rav4 and no Toyota product can really replace it.
I would be interested in a Hilux but every one complains about the power.
I own of the new ones plenty of power torque but never seen it get above 25mpg I bought it for economy but if I new what I know now I would of gone for the big ford ranger wildtrak might as well have a big engine and lots of power and bad economy instead of smaller engine less power and still rubbish fuel economy I think whoever came up with the hilux fuel specs must of been on something or needs a new calculator!!!
Just double check warranty I bought mine with the understanding that they have 5 year warranty but been told by another that it’s only 3 year says in small print excludes hilux could someone tell me if this is correct or not
Hi Chris,
Every Hilux registered from 01/01/2016 was NEW and from that date they would not have had 5yr/100,000 mile warranty.
It would only be the NEW generation Hilux models supplied after 01/07/2016 that get the 5 year/100,000 mile warranty.
I hope this answers your question. Many thanks.
Hi thanks for confirming this other question do Toyota do any ecu upgrades similar to chipping as it’s using too much fuel actually had Amarok on demo thinking of changing or less there’s a solution
Hi Chris,
Toyota UK do not support any chipping upgrades or ECU upgrades. We do not recommend doing this as there can be unhelpful side effects.
Oh yes! Bought two x ones ready for March 👍🏻👍🏻
That’s great! We hope you have many happy years behind the wheel of your Hilux. We’d love to see some pictures when they arrive, feel free to post them to our Twitter or Facebook. 🙂
Pulled a horse box (3160kg) from Warrington to York last week (170 miles) in a 2.4 Hilux.
Used 45L of diesel = 17mpg.
Did exactly the same journey today, in a 3.0L Hilux, 29.5L= 26mpg.
The 2.4 has to be thrashed to get any power out of it, and constantly up and down the gearbox to keep moving! At one point we were down to 3rd near redline to get over the top (Pennines).
Toyota have got it so wrong with this excuse of an engine!!!
I would echo that I’ve not done much towing with mine I’m getting low 30s mpg but I have. Noticed if it’s well loaded the economy really suffers ,
The 2.4 is a short stroke version of the 2.8 , my guess is less torque and happier revving with a light load 6th gear seems to make it use more fuel as it struggles to pull the higher gear ,
Still like the truck it is a Toyota and built like one , I’m sure the engine options will come I would guess they order well ahead so let’s hope they get there act together for 2018 model year…
I came over the M62 today with a load of bagged sand. 27 mpg with the engine fighting against a 70 mph headwind (storm Doris) which pulled me down to 35 mph in 4th gear. Mine Hilux is the 3ltr, last of the good ones and the best workhorse I have ever had. To pull that load in those conditions would have been a challenge with the underpowered 2.4 and at what fuel consumption? I cannot understand Toyota saying that the smaller engine ‘satisfies the market requirements’ unless they are aiming at the school run instead.
My 3 litre invincible is due for renewal I also pull a 3 tonne trailer tried the 2.4 absolutely rubbish so unless they give us more torque it’s a new 3.2 ranger on 0% finance
Read many posts on this blog where people say there comments haven’t been added.
Seems now that only good comments make it onto the blog. Mine from Saturday about the 2.4L (cripple) not allowed on. What do have to hide from Toyota.
Look at cattle markets where farmers tow cattle to market, they are abandoning hilux’s.
Virtually no 2.4L’s….replaced by rangers and amaroks.
Hi Jill,
All comments go through an approval process, please see that your comment has been published. Due to no-one manning the blog comments over the weekend, all posts posted past 5:30 on a Friday are dealt with on the Monday. Many thanks.
Has this blog shut down ?
Or have Toyota GB made it harder to find because of all the bad comments .
Hi Pete,
Thanks for getting in touch. We will not publish any comments that contain offensive language, external links and email addresses. A number of comments we receive do contain the above and therefore they are not made public. Many thanks.
If you guys brought the 2.8 to the uk maybe you wouldn’t have people asking about chipping the vehicle. Just saying.
Hi Robert,
At this moment in time we have no plans to introduce the 2.8 engine as the performance and economy of the 2.4 unit is sufficient for our market needs. We hope this helps.