Diesel Defes Rumours: The Next-Gen Toyota HiLux Prepares for a Diesel Duo

By Jeff Gibbs

Recent whispers about the impending death of diesel engines are proving to be nothing more than speculation, as Toyota’s upcoming HiLux prepares to defy the odds with not one, but two diesel powertrain options. Reports originating from Japan suggest that the all-new HiLux, slated for a 2024 debut and likely hitting the market in 2025, is set to unleash a compelling array of diesel engine choices to maintain its competitive edge against rivals such as the Ford Ranger, Kia Tasman, Mitsubishi Triton, and Isuzu D-Max.

According to insights shared by the Japanese source, Response, the forthcoming HiLux will offer a dynamic duo of diesel engines. The frst contender is expected to be a 2.4-litre inline fourcylinder turbo-diesel, potentially coupled with an electrifed hybrid confguration. The second diesel engine on the roster is a formidable 2.8-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel, with the possibility that it might resemble the engine currently powering Australia’s best-selling vehicle.

Performance enthusiasts can anticipate output fgures that surpass the current HiLux standards of 150kW and 500Nm, indicating Toyota’s commitment to enhancing power and effciency.

Electrifcation, as per the report, is an “inevitable” path for the HiLux, with hybrid technology expected to grace one or both of the diesel engine options. Additionally, a fully electric HiLux BEV (Battery Electric Vehicle) is rumored to make its debut later in the model’s lifecycle. This electric variant might feature a singular electric motor to power the rear wheels, while more robust confgurations could cater to all-wheel-drive models.

Toyota Australia’s previous statements about the integration of electrifcation into its commercial lineup align with these developments.

Sean Hanley, Toyota Australia’s VP of sales and marketing, hinted at a forthcoming shift towards electrifcation in models such as the LandCruiser, Prado, and the HiLux, keeping pace with the evolving automotive landscape.

The next-gen HiLux, as per the report, is set to sport dimensions of 5355mm in length, 1860mm in width, and 1800mm in height. This ensures that the truck retains a smaller footprint than the Tundra, and it slides comfortably beneath the Tacoma in terms of size. These dimensions, subtly larger than the currentgeneration HiLux, refect Toyota’s emphasis on maintaining practicality without unnecessary bulk.

For those with a keen eye for aesthetics, the next HiLux is said to adopt a front-end design reminiscent of the 300 Series, borrowing elements from the GR Sport model. This choice enhances visual continuity across Toyota’s esteemed lineup.

While the fner details remain under wraps, the wait won’t be long, as 2024 is anticipated to bring forth the unveiling of the HiLux’s exciting new chapter. As diesel innovation continues to shine, the next HiLux promises to be an electrifying addition to Toyota’s legacy of robust and reliable vehicles.