The Toyota HiLux is part of the Australian furniture. Tradies, farmers and weekend campers have trusted it for decades, and the new-generation model is Toyota's biggest HiLux update in years. Toyota even calls it "the most Aussie HiLux ever", thanks to an Australian-led exterior design.

So what's actually new, how much does it cost, and which grade should you buy? Here's our Toyota HiLux 2026 review.

Our verdict: the new HiLux keeps its tough 2.8 turbo-diesel and 3,500kg towing, then adds a big 12.3-inch screen, more safety tech and a 48V system on many autos. For most buyers, the SR5 auto is the sweet spot.

What we like

• 12.3-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto on every grade
• Up to 3,500kg towing on diesel 4x4s
• More safety tech standard, including blind spot monitor
• New comfort-tuned rear suspension on SR5 and above
• 5-year unlimited-kilometre warranty

What we don't

• Top grades now cost more than $70,000 before on-road costs
• The 48V V-Active system isn't on every grade
• Manual versions get less torque (420Nm vs 500Nm)

How much does the 2026 HiLux cost?

The range starts at $33,990 for the WorkMate 4x2 single cab-chassis manual. It tops out at $71,990 for the Rogue and Rugged X.

Grade and body	Price (+ORC)
WorkMate 4x2 single cab-chassis manual	$33,990
WorkMate 4x2 double cab pick-up auto	$47,990
SR 4x2 double cab pick-up auto	$52,990
WorkMate 4x4 double cab pick-up auto	$53,990
SR 4x4 double cab pick-up 48V auto	$59,490
SR5 4x4 double cab pick-up manual	$63,990
SR5 4x4 double cab pick-up 48V auto	$65,990
Rogue 4x4 double cab pick-up 48V auto	$71,990
Rugged X 4x4 double cab pick-up 48V auto	$71,990

Manufacturer's list price, plus on-road costs. Source: Toyota Australia, November 2025. Selected variants shown; 16 variants in total. Premium paint adds $675. The SR5 Premium Interior pack adds $2,500.

Want to see what dealers have in stock? Browse new Toyota HiLux utes for sale.

Engine, gearbox and towing

Every diesel HiLux uses Toyota's proven 2.8-litre turbo-diesel four-cylinder. It makes 150kW and 500Nm in automatic variants, and 420Nm with the six-speed manual.

The big news is V-Active. On SR 4x4 double cab autos and above, a 48-volt system with an 8.5kW/65Nm electric motor generator helps the engine when you pull away. It's designed to make take-off feel smoother, not to turn the HiLux into a hybrid.

Towing is still a HiLux strength. Toyota quotes up to 3,500kg for diesel 4x4s and up to 2,900kg for 4x2s.

Is there an electric HiLux?

Yes. Toyota confirmed the first-ever HiLux battery electric vehicle (BEV) for Australian showrooms in March 2026. It's offered as an all-wheel-drive double cab in SR and SR5 grades, and Toyota rates it to tow up to 2,000kg.

Tech and safety

Every new HiLux gets a 12.3-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, DAB+ digital radio and built-in sat nav. The WorkMate has a 7.0-inch digital driver's display, and the SR5 and above get a bigger 12.3-inch one.

Standard safety across the range includes:

• Autonomous emergency braking (pre-collision safety system)
• Active cruise control and lane trace assist
• Blind spot monitor and rear cross-traffic alert
• Lane departure alert and road sign assist
• Reversing camera

The SR adds a panoramic view monitor and tyre pressure monitoring. The SR5 adds an emergency driving stop system and Multi-Terrain Monitor for off-road driving.

Which HiLux grade should you buy?

WorkMate: the no-fuss work ute. It has 17-inch steel wheels and fabric seats, but still gets the 12.3-inch screen and full safety suite. It suits fleets and tradies.

SR: the value pick. It adds alloy wheels, LED fog lights, smart entry, a wireless phone charger, a 300W inverter and eight speakers. 4x4 autos also get a locking rear diff, Multi Terrain Select and downhill assist control.

SR5: our pick for families and touring. It brings a new comfort-tuned rear leaf suspension, 18-inch wheels, a towbar, heated front seats and steering wheel, dual-zone climate control and LED headlights.

Rogue: the premium lifestyle grade. It has black 18-inch wheels, a bedliner with an electric roller cover and a full towing package with an electronic brake controller.

Rugged X: back for the new generation and built for off-road work. It adds a hoopless bullbar, front and rear recovery points and an LED light bar.

What's changed since launch?

In May 2026, Toyota announced an Australian-developed, factory-engineered GVM upgrade option for select HiLux grades. It's aimed at buyers who carry heavy loads or fit lots of accessories.

HiLux vs rivals

The HiLux's main rivals are the Ford Ranger, Isuzu D-Max, Kia Tasman and BYD Shark 6. If you're weighing up a used one instead, read our used Toyota HiLux buyer's guide and our comparison of the HiLux vs Ranger vs D-Max. We've also reviewed the 2026 Kia Tasman and the 2026 Toyota GR Yaris.

Who is the 2026 HiLux for?

It suits buyers who want a proven diesel ute that holds its value, tows a big van and comes with Toyota's dealer network across the country. It's less suited to buyers chasing the lowest price for the most features, where some newer rivals undercut it.

FAQs

How much is the 2026 Toyota HiLux?
Prices start at $33,990 plus on-road costs for the WorkMate 4x2 single cab-chassis manual. The Rogue and Rugged X top the range at $71,990.

How much can the new HiLux tow?
Up to 3,500kg for diesel 4x4s, up to 2,900kg for 4x2s, and up to 2,000kg for the electric HiLux.

What engine does the 2026 HiLux have?
A 2.8-litre turbo-diesel making 150kW and 500Nm in autos (420Nm in manuals). Many autos add a 48V V-Active system.

Is there an electric HiLux in Australia?
Yes. The HiLux BEV is an all-wheel-drive double cab in SR and SR5 grades.

What warranty does the HiLux have?
Toyota's 5-year unlimited-kilometre warranty for private buyers.

The bottom line

The new HiLux doesn't reinvent the formula, and that's the point. It's still the tough, trusted diesel ute Australians love, now with a modern cabin and more safety tech. Our pick is the SR5 auto, but every grade makes sense for the right buyer.

Ready to look? Find a trusted Toyota dealer near you on Auto Buyers Guide.

Sources: Toyota Australia PressRoom (HiLux releases, 12 Nov 2025, 31 Mar 2026 and 19 May 2026) and toyota.com.au/hilux. Images: Toyota Australia.