2024 Toyota Hilux facelift debuts in Australia with a hybrid drivetrain

KUALA LUMPUR: Toyota has pulled the wraps off the all-new Hilux facelift in Australia ahead of the launch slated for next month. Along with styling and tech updates, the new pickup truck heading to the land down under also gets a 48-volt mild-hybrid system.

The hybrid pickup consists of the tried-and-tested 2.8-litre turbo-diesel four-cylinder engine, a motor generator, and a 48-volt battery. The diesel mill generates a maximum power of 204 PS and a peak torque of 500 Nm while the electric motor contributes 16 PS and 65 Nm.  Also part of the kit is a DC/DC converter and a six-speed automatic transmission.

“The 48-Volt technology helps improve engine smoothness and fuel economy of the venerable diesel mill by approx 6-10 per cent compared to current generation Hilux,” claims Toyota. 

Make note that the hybrid system is standard on 4x4 Rogue and automatic SR5 double cabs, and optional for 4x4 SR double cabs in Australia. These trims also come equipped with a Multi-Terrain Select, offering six selectable drive modes that enhance performance in challenging conditions.

Apart from the new drivetrain, the 2024 Toyota Hilux facelift benefits from a new sense of rugged style with a refreshed front-end design. It features a new grille and redesigned bumper that connect in an interlocking style. The grille has an octagonal shape, the lower section is trapezoidal, and the outer bumper, where the fog lamps are located, stands out boldly. Also new are redesigned headlamps offering better nighttime visibility and a new set of 17-inch alloy wheels.

The highlights exclusive to WorkMate variants are a black honeycomb grille, a black lower and body-coloured side bumper finish, and a tailgate damper.

Depending on the variant picked, the new Hilux comes with the following interior highlights -

• 7.0-inch infotainment unit 
• Dual-zone automatic climate control
• Smart entry and start
• Automatic up-down control for the power windows
• Carpet floor mats
• Two front and four rear parking sensors
• Wireless charging pad
• Two rear USB-C ports 

Toyota Australia Vice President of Sales, Marketing and Franchise Operations Sean Hanley said the upgrades to the new-look HiLux range make it more compelling than ever. 

“Introducing 48-Volt technology on double-cab HiLux models is an exciting step forward, improving fuel efficiency while still providing performance and capability that the HiLux is known for,” he added.

The new Toyota Hilux will hit the Australian showrooms in March this year. 

Also read: 2024 Toyota Corolla Cross facelift gets a debut date