The Toyota Hilux is one of the world’s most stalwart and respected pickup trucks. Known for toughness, reliability, off-road capability, and utility, the Hilux has been around for decades, serving in both commercial & lifestyle roles.
It blends rugged performance with modern amenities (especially in higher trims), making it appealing for people who want both function and comfort.
This review goes into all the current variants, top model, specifications, pricing, and everything you need to know if you’re considering buying one.
Variants / Trims (India & Global Snapshot)
While the Hilux is sold globally with many trim levels, in the Indian market (which has good public data) and in other similar regions, these are the main variants:
| Variant Name | Key Differentiators |
|---|---|
| Standard / STD 4×4 MT | Base model: manual transmission, essential features, rugged build, minimal frills. |
| High 4×4 MT | Adds comforts & better features: higher trim, better interior, more amenities, still manual. |
| High 4×4 AT | Same trim level as “High” but with automatic transmission; more convenient especially in city traffic. |
| Black Edition | Top model: styling upgrades (blacked-out trim, special wheels etc.), automatic transmission, more feature content. |
Other markets also have WorkMate, SR, SR5, GR Sport etc., depending on region, with variations in engine options (petrol/diesel), cabin configurations (single / double cab), drivetrain (2WD / 4WD), etc.
Top Model
The top Hilux in many markets is the Black Edition (or equivalent highest trim). What sets this apart:
- Automatic transmission (for regions where AT is optional).
- The full work-and-lifestyle feature set: upgraded infotainment, interior trim, possibly better materials, special badging, wheels, exterior styling touches (black accents etc.).
- All the 4×4 hardware (low range, diff lock, etc.).
- Best torque/power figures available for that market (diesel, usually).
Pricing (USD and Local)
Here are indicative prices, both from India (as a sample) and approximate USD equivalents. Prices vary by region, import duties, taxes etc., so these are estimates:
| Variant | Price in India (Ex-Showroom) | Approx USD Equivalent* |
|---|---|---|
| STD 4×4 MT | ₹30.40 lakh | ~$36,000–$38,000 |
| High 4×4 MT | ₹37.15 lakh | ~$44,000–$46,000 |
| High 4×4 AT | ₹37.90 lakh | ~$45,000–$47,000 |
| Black Edition (top) | ₹37.90 lakh | ~$45,000–$47,000 |
Converted roughly using current USD/INR approximate rates; actual cost in your country could vary significantly due to local taxes and import/registration fees.
In other markets (Australia, Southeast Asia, etc.), the base Hilux trims start lower or similar depending on duties, and top trims (especially GR Sport or Black look-editions) can be higher due to added equipment.
Full Specifications (Representative for Current Top Diesel 4×4 Models)
Below are key specs drawn from the Indian Hilux lineup (Black Edition / “High AT / High MT / Black”) plus global benchmarks for similar versions:
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.8-litre turbocharged diesel (4-cylinder inline) |
| Displacement | ~2,755 cc |
| Power Output | ~201 bhp (≈ 150 kW) |
| Torque | ~420 Nm (Manual) / ≈500 Nm (Automatic) |
| Transmission Options | 6-speed Manual / 6-speed Automatic (Torque Converter) |
| Drivetrain | 4×4 (4-wheel drive) |
| Seating Capacity | 5 persons (Double Cab) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | ~80 litres |
| Length × Width × Height | ~5,325 mm × 1,855 mm × 1,815 mm |
| Wheelbase | ~3,085 mm |
| Tyres / Wheels | Base models: smaller wheels, top models: ~18-inch alloys with tyres like 265 / 60 R18 |
| Brakes / Suspension | Front: Ventilated Discs; Rear: Drum (in many markets); Suspension: front double wishbone, rear rigid axle with leaf springs. |
| Ground Clearance & Turn Radius | Turning radius around 6.4 metres (varies by trim); ground clearance typical for 4×4 pickups in this class (but official figure may vary by model/tyre). |
| Fuel Economy | In India, user-reported ~10.7-12.5 kmpl depending on variant and driving conditions. |
Features & Equipment
Top trims often offer:
- Automatic climate control / dual-zone AC
- A decent infotainment system with smartphone integration (Apple CarPlay / Android Auto)
- Touchscreen display, multiple speakers
- Rear parking sensors, rear view camera
- Safety features: airbags, ABS, stability control, possibly hill-assist, differential lock etc.
- Exterior styling touches on higher trims: alloy wheels, black accents (in black edition), better lighting (LEDs)
- Comfort features: power mirrors, tilt & telescopic steering adjustment, possibly leather or upgraded upholstery in some markets
Base trims are more utilitarian: basic interior, more rugged materials, manual everything (mirrors, windows etc depending on market), simpler wheels / tyres.
Performance & Driving Impressions
- Excellent torque from diesel at low-rpm especially in manual and automatic options in 4×4. Good off-road performance with selectable 4WD, low range and limited-slip or diff lock (depending on variant).
- On paved roads, ride can feel firm, especially with empty bed (leaf springs in rear), sometimes bouncy. AT versions tend to be more comfortable in city traffic.
- Engine noise is noticeable under hard throttle, especially on diesel; in higher trims insulation is better but still not luxury-level.
- Excellent pulling power, capability for difficult terrain, load-carrying, towing (in markets that allow).
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Legendary reliability and durability.
- Strong resale value and service network globally.
- Good off-road ability and overall capability in rugged conditions.
- Strong torque and power in diesel variants, especially in 4×4.
- Top trims offer much of the comfort and tech people expect.
Cons
- Ride comfort is compromised compared to SUVs or luxury pickups, especially on urban roads or with lighter load.
- Diesel engine can be noisy, and fuel efficiency suffers in heavy usage / city traffic.
- Price is high in markets with heavy import/tax/registration duties.
- Lower trims may lack many creature comforts.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1. What engine options are available in the Hilux?
A1. For many current markets (India being one), the main engine is the ~2.8-litre turbo diesel. Manual and automatic options are offered. In other markets there may be petrol/diesel variants of different displacements, depending on emissions norms and local demand.
Q2. Is automatic transmission available?
A2. Yes — in higher trims (e.g. “High AT”, “Black Edition”) automatic (torque converter) transmission is available. Manual is still standard in base trims.
Q3. What’s the fuel economy / mileage like?
A3. In India, user-reported mileage is about 10.7-12.5 kmpl depending on variant, driving condition, load etc. In other countries, mileage or consumption will depend heavily on engine, usage, and whether on petrol or diesel.
Q4. How good is the Hilux off-road?
A4. Very good, especially in 4×4 versions. Hilux has a proven 4WD system, high torque, good ground clearance, and rugged build. Lower trims may have less off-road equipment (tyres, differential locks etc.), so top trims are better for serious off-roading.
Q5. What’s the payload / towing capacity?
A5. Payload and towing specs vary by market. Globally, Hilux has strong towing/payload numbers in its class. (Exact values would depend on local regs and trim.)
Q6. What are the dimensions? Is it large?
A6. Yes, it’s a large double-cab pickup. In India for example ~5,325 mm long, ~1,855 mm wide, ~1,815 mm high; wheelbase ~3,085 mm. So parking, maneuvering in cities can be challenging.
Q7. What is the cost of ownership like?
A7. Expect high maintenance and fuel costs in heavy or off-road use. But Toyota’s reliability, spare availability, and resale value help. Insurance, tax, and service costs depend heavily on local import duties, policies, and fuel prices.
Q8. Which variant should I buy if I want a balance of comfort & utility?
A8. Probably the High 4×4 AT or “Black Edition” if you want comfort + features. If work utility is priority (load carrying, rough use), Standard or High 4×4 MT may be more suitable.
Price & Specifications- Global/Other Markets (Estimate & Context)
To give you a wider perspective, here are estimates and data from global markets –
- In Australia, Hilux trims range from basic “WorkMate” 4×2 petrol/manual variants (lower price) up to premium diesel 4×4 / GR Sport versions that can cost significantly more (up to around AUD $65,000–70,000+) depending on options.
- In Southeast Asia (Thailand, etc.), pricing is more competitive; strong diesel 4×4 versions are common; local production helps reduce cost.
Conclusion
If you need a rugged, reliable, capable pickup that can serve both as workhorse and lifestyle vehicle, the Toyota Hilux is hard to beat. For those who expect SUV-level ride comfort, luxury interiors, or ultra efficiency — there are trade-offs. But overall, Hilux remains one of the best choices where durability, resale value, and off-road capability matter.
