New-generation Toyota Hilux tempts fans with a dozen options

Hilux buyers will have a dozen different Hilux variants to choose from when the new-generation ute arrives in New Zealand in early 2026.

Across the range, the new-generation Hilux has had extensive upgrades to technology, driveability and passenger comfort, and all packaged within a new exterior and interior design.

Toyota NZ Chief Executive, Tatsuya Ishikawa, says the Hilux needs virtually no introduction to the New Zealand market, such is the legacy and durability reputation of the ute, the mobility mainstay of our economy for almost 50 years.

“Under its newly designed skin, the 2025 Hilux is more ‘Hilux’ than ever before, built tough and ready to get the job done, day in, day out,” Ishikawa says.

The new Hilux range features four distinctive model grades – SR, SR5, SR5 Limited and Adventure, with all models powered by Toyota’s trusted 1GD-FTV 2.8-litre turbodiesel four-cylinder engine, mated to either a six-speed manual transmission or automatic transmission, depending on the variant. Half of the 12 variants are available with a hybrid powertrain.

The engine drives a compact motor generator using a belt system, which in turn charges the new 48V lithium battery, small enough to be installed under the rear seats to minimise impact on cabin space. The belt system charges the battery during deceleration, efficiently regenerating braking energy which would otherwise be lost, whilst also adding additional braking performance.

The extensive lineup ranges from an entry level rear wheel drive, double cab wellside ute to the range topping new Hilux Adventure, a four-wheel drive double cab wellside ute powered by the hybrid 2.8L turbo diesel engine.

In between are 10 ute variations, designed to meet a range of functional requirements and budgets, and in single, extra and double cab configurations. The former premium Hilux, the SR5 Cruiser has been replaced, for 2025, by the SR5 Limited and Adventure variants.

Ishikawa says the range of Hilux, from a two wheel drive or single cab SR to the top specified SR5 Limited and Adventure grades, is designed to meet a wide range of Hilux buyers from those who need a tough no-frills ute to carry or tow equipment to jobs in the field, to those who prefer a more refined and well-appointed ute that might have multiple uses and passengers throughout the week and weekend.

Getting the job done with the SR

Externally, the SR grade features 17-inch steel wheels, silver painted lower front bumper, side mirrors and hood moulding, locking rear tailgate (excluding cab chassis), side steps and four exterior colour choices.

The new Hilux features a completely redesigned modern interior, offering maximum storage space, refined styling, while keeping essential off-road controls within easy reach of the driver.

A new front seat design has been introduced, featuring a wider layout and enhanced cushioning for improved comfort.

The new SR extra and double cab wellside ute has high-grade fabric upholstery, leather-accented shift knob and steering wheel, rear-seat air conditioning vent, smart entry and start, wireless smartphone charger, eight-speaker audio system, lifting the comfort and convenience amenity.

For 4WD automatic variants, the SR wellside variants add a locking rear differential, and for some models the Multi Terrain Select and Downhill Assist Control.

An SR 4x4 double-cab automatic grade is also available with a 48-volt hybrid system with an 8.4kW/65Nm electric motor generator for improved driving feel during take-off, and a reduction in fuel consumption.

Engineers also spent considerable time refining Hilux noise, vibration and harshness countermeasures further reducing in-cabin noise and improving overall user experience. Newly designed cabin and engine mounts minimise vibration transfer, helping reduce driver and passenger fatigue.

Stepping up to the SR5 and SR5 Limited

The next grade in the Hilux range is the 4WD double-cab-only SR5 and its premium SR5 Limited grade, which introduces the new comfort-oriented rear leaf suspension tune designed to provide a more compliant and supple ride. SR5 customers can choose from a manual non-hybrid or automatic transmission hybrid powertrains.

The SR5 adds 18-inch gloss black and bright machined-finished alloy wheels with larger front disc brakes and ventilated rear disc brakes, high-grade auto-levelling LED headlights, LED taillights and rear fog lamp, privacy glass and auto retracting and heated exterior mirrors.

Inside the cabin, the SR5 features a few creature comforts, such as front seat heating, dual zone air conditioning, and, for the cooler climates, a heated steering wheel. The driver also benefits from a 12.3-inch multi-information display and a Multi Terrain Monitor (excluding manual transmission and Cab Chassis variants).

The SR5 is also available as both a wellside and cab chassis. There are three manual transmission options in the range – an SR 4WD Double Cab Chassis, SR5 4WD Double Cab Wellside and SR5 Limited Double Cab Wellside. The manual transmission variants are not available with the 48V Hybrid system and several features such as Downhill Assist Control, parking support brake and Multi Terrain Select.

The SR5 Limited adds black leather accented seats, powered driver seat adjustability and a JBL nine-speaker premium audio system (excluding manual transmission).

Both the SR and SR5 are available in Glacier White, Tensile Silver, Eclipse and, new to the range, Ash. The SR5 and SR5 Limited are also available in Emotional Red (excluding the Cab Chassis variant).

Going on an Adventure

The top graded Hilux Adventure takes all the features of the SR5 Limited and upgrades with matte black alloy wheels, ‘mineral’ leather interior and a unique front bumper. It’s available in six exterior colours, including two exclusive Adventure colours – Frosted White and Sulphur.

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