2026 Toyota Hilux: All-New 9th Gen Gets Electric Version and Major Redesign

2026 Toyota Hilux: All-New 9th Gen Gets Electric Version and Major Redesign

It’s been over a decade since the current-generation Toyota Hilux launched in 2015.

By pickup standards, that’s not just old it’s ancient.

Yet, despite countless facelifts and global acclaim for its durability, even the “indestructible” Hilux needed change.

In 2026, Toyota answers the call with the ninth-generation Hilux a complete overhaul that brings bold new styling, cutting-edge tech, and for the first time ever: a fully electric variant.

And yes this one runs on batteries.

For the first time in its 55-year history, the Hilux is going electric.

Toyota is launching the battery-electric Hilux (BEV) as the flagship of the new lineup, revealing it ahead of combustion models. Every official press image released so far features the BEV version signaling a shift in priorities without abandoning tradition.

2026 Toyota Hilux: All-New 9th Gen Gets Electric Version and Major Redesign

But don’t worry the diesel isn’t dead.

While the EV leads the charge, Toyota knows many buyers still need range, payload, and refueling speed only fuel can deliver. So the proven 2.8-liter turbodiesel with mild-hybrid tech returns now upgraded and ready for another decade of hard work.

Additional engine options include:

• Non-electrified 2.8L diesel
• 2.7L gasoline engine

And looking further ahead?

Yes hydrogen is still on the table.

Toyota plans to introduce a fuel cell Hilux by 2028, reaffirming its long-term bet on hydrogen. That same year, it will co-develop BMW’s iX5 Hydrogen, proving its commitment beyond the battery pack.

Gone are the days of single cab or extra cab configurations.

For this generation, only the double-cab body style will be offered in Europe a move driven by customer demand. Over recent years, buyers have overwhelmingly chosen the extended cabin for comfort, versatility, and family use.

2026 Toyota Hilux: All-New 9th Gen Gets Electric Version and Major Redesign

So Toyota listened.

The result? A more unified, modern lineup focused on what people actually buy.

Visually, the new Hilux sheds its aging skin.

Now sharper, tougher, and unmistakably modern, it adopts design cues from the North American Tacoma:

• Angular front end with aggressive lines
• Large "TOYOTA" wordmark replacing the oval logo
• Slim LED headlights flanking a rugged face

On the EV model, the upper grille is completely sealed a clear sign of no internal combustion. Meanwhile, ICE versions will feature a functional intake for cooling.

Other visual updates:

• Exclusive EV wheel design
• Redesigned side steps for easier entry/exit
• New rear deck step for improved bed access
• Massive debossed "TOYOTA" lettering on the tailgate a nod to American pickups
• "Hilux" name integrated into the door handle, just below the third brake light

It’s not revolutionary but it’s evolved. And more importantly, it looks ready for the next decade.

Inside, the cabin has aged poorly until now.

2026 Toyota Hilux: All-New 9th Gen Gets Electric Version and Major Redesign

The ninth-gen Hilux gets a complete interior overhaul, borrowing heavily from the latest Land Cruiser for structure and layout.

At the center:

Twin 12.3-inch digital displays one for instruments, one for infotainment

But unlike other brands chasing touch-only interfaces, Toyota sticks to its guns:

• Full suite of physical buttons for climate control
• Dedicated switches for 4x4 modes and terrain settings
• Intuitive placement of critical functions

No digging through menus. No guesswork. Just driver-focused functionality exactly what a working truck should offer.

Also added:

• Wireless charging pad
• Rear USB ports
• Shift-by-wire selector (on EV model)

Toyota is leading with specs for the electric Hilux, which features:

• Dual-motor all-wheel drive
• 59.2-kWh lithium-ion battery
• WLTP range: ~149 miles (240 km)

Torque output:

• Front motor: 205 Nm (151 lb-ft)
• Rear motor: 269 Nm (198 lb-ft)

Payload: up to 715 kg (1,576 lbs)

Towing capacity: 1,600 kg (3,527 lbs)

Compare that to the mild-hybrid diesel:

• Payload: 1,000 kg (2,205 lbs)
• Towing: 3,500 kg (7,716 lbs)

So while the EV offers zero-emission operation and instant torque, the diesel remains the king of heavy-duty tasks.

2026 Toyota Hilux: All-New 9th Gen Gets Electric Version and Major Redesign

This isn’t just about powertrains it’s about progress.

The new Hilux introduces several first-time features:

• Electric Power Steering (EPS) available in Western Europe (hydraulic retained elsewhere)
• Blind Spot Monitoring
• Driver Monitoring Camera
• Safe Exit Assist
• Over-the-air (OTA) software updates
• Enhanced Toyota Safety Sense suite, including:
• Emergency Driving Stop System
• Low-Speed Acceleration Suppression
• Proactive Driving Assist

It’s still built to survive anything but now smarter than ever.

• EV Hilux: On sale in Europe starting December 2025
• Mild-hybrid diesel: Production begins Spring 2026
• Fuel cell version: Expected by 2028

Despite its global reach sold in over 180 markets, assembled in six countries the Hilux won’t come to the U.S., where it would directly compete with the Tacoma. Still, with over 21 million units sold since 1968, the Hilux legacy is undeniable.

Read also: 2027 Lamborghini Temerario Super Trofeo: Pure ICE, RWD Track Beast Revealed