After a long wait, Toyota has revealed the latest iteration of the eighth-generation 2025 Toyota Hilux. And it hasn’t made its way across the globe yet like its predecessors. The facelifted 2025 Toyota Hilux has arrived first in Australia, marking the third facelift for this popular midsize pickup. Just like we predicted in our last post on what to expect from the next-gen Toyota Hilux, the 2025 Toyota Hilux is here with a plethora of changes that include upgraded styling, advanced technological features, and the integration of 48-Volt technology into its 2.8-liter turbodiesel engine. Looks like the Hilux is on its way to becoming one of the most fuel-efficient pickups.Â
But, of course, aside from these aforementioned changes, the 2025 Hilux largely maintains its style and driveline. But that brings a question: How will it stay competitive? Well, it turns out, that Toyota made sure to keep the Hilux as classy and bold as always. To stay ahead of the game, Toyota has introduced fresh modifications to the 2025 Toyota Hilux, directly addressing the ongoing rivalry with its main competitor, the Ford Ranger. Last year, the Ford Ranger secured the position of Australia’s best-selling vehicle. It seems the battle between the Ford Ranger and the Toyota Hilux is a never-ending one. Toyota is already testing the Hilux, according to Carsales.
How Does The Facelifted 2025 Toyota Hilux Look?
Distinguishing itself from the Japanese- and European-spec models of the 2024 Toyota Hilux, the Australian variant boasts a redesigned front end. The bumper exhibits a more sculpted appearance, featuring a new octagonal grille complemented by revised intakes and an aluminum-style skid plate. While the remainder of the body remains consistent with the outgoing Hilux, the tailgate now incorporates dampers for smoother operation.
The grille and bumper exhibit distinct finishes depending on the trim level. The base-level WorkMate showcases a black honeycomb mesh grille, while the SR trim introduces a silver-colored lower bumper finish. Moving up to the SR5, you’ll find a black upper grille, accompanied by dark-tinted LEDs and gloss-black accents on elements like fog light bezels, mirror caps, and door handles. Notably, Toyota has not released images of the high-spec Rogue and the performance-focused GR Sport grades, indicating that these models are likely to maintain their current body kits.
What’s Under The Hood? Engine And Transmission
The standout feature of the 2025 model year is the integration of 48V technology into the standard 2.8-liter four-cylinder turbodiesel found in the Rogue and SR5 trims, with optional availability for the 4×4 SR. We’re currently in the dark on the Toyota Hilux performance upgrades as well as the extent of the facelifted Hilux features. But we’ll keep you posted on that. Â
The 2025 Toyota Hilux Has Excellent Hybrid Technology
Yes! You read that right. The facelifted 2025 Toyota Hilux has a hybrid powertrain. We do love the Diesel-electric hybrid truck blend. It may be the face of future hybrid trucks.Â
The new Hilux’s mild-hybrid system incorporates a belt-driven electric motor/generator, a compact lithium battery, and a DC/DC converter, facilitating a stop/start system. Toyota emphasizes that the electrification of the powertrain results in a 6-10% improvement in fuel economy, varying depending on the trim. Additionally, the 2025 Toyota Hilux’s mild-hybrid technology is quieter, with less vibrations and noise.
The mildly electrified 2.8-liter turbodiesel engine maintains consistent performance, generating 203 hp and 500 Nm (369 lb-ft) of torque. At the moment, Toyota Australia hasn’t yet told us any details on the hybrid specs and impact of the 48V technology on power and torque, the EU-spec model indicates an additional 16 hp and 65 Nm (48 lb-ft) due to this technology. In addition to the new Hilux, we know that Toyota will also introduce the new mild–hybrid technology in the Toyota LandCruiser 70 Series later this year.
Toyota Isn’t Calling It A Hybrid
Toyota is calling the new Hilux a mild hybrid. And we’ve checked their pages and we didn’t find a part where they boldly mentioned hybrid and we know why. Unlike other automakers, Toyota diverges from other automakers by refraining from using the hybrid term or emblems when describing mild hybrids. Instead, these designations are reserved for self-charging and plug-in hybrid setups.
The Mild-Hybrid 2025 Hilux brings a Multi-Terrain Select System
According to Toyota, all Hilux trim levels that have the mild-hybrid diesel technology system include the Multi-Terrain Select system as a standard feature. This system offers six distinct driving modes tailored for various types of terrains, enhancing the vehicle’s adaptability and performance across different landscapes.
The Facelifted 2025 Toyota Hilux Has Three Gas-Powered Engines
Powertrain options within the Hilux lineup encompass the current non-electrified 2.8-liter and 2.4-liter diesel engines, along with the 2.7-liter gasoline motor. These options are available with a selection of manual or automatic transmissions and are offered in both 4×2 and 4×4 configurations.
Technology Features Of The Hilux 2025
In terms of features, all SR grades now incorporate two front and four rear parking sensors. Additionally, models equipped with the 48-Volt system receive added enhancements, including dual-zone automatic climate control, smart entry/start, auto power windows, and carpet floor mats. For the higher-spec SR5, Rogue, and GR Sport trims, a wireless charging pad and two rear USB-C ports are now included.
The 2025 Toyota Hilux Arrives In Australia In March
Sources say the new Toyota Hilux will arrive on Australian soil in 2024. According to reports from Carscoops, the pricing of the 2025 Hilux begins at US$17,277 for the entry-level Hilux Workmate 4×2 single-cab model and reaches (US$48,495) for the flagship Hilux GR Sport 4×4 dual-cab version.Â
The Hybrid-Powered Hilux Costs More
Expect the Toyota Hilux trims that have the 48-Volt mild-hybrid system to cost slightly more than the gas-powered version. The Hybrid Hilux may start at $1,047 higher than the gas variants. The overall pricing will be similar to the 2023 model year, but a little higher when compared to their non-electrified counterparts.
The 2025 Toyota Hilux May Be The Last Eighth-Generation Model
The fate of the latest Toyota Hilux remains uncertain for other markets. We know that the current version is in its final phase. This is the same version that debuted in 2015 and underwent numerous cosmetic and performance-enhancing facelifts in 2017 and 2020 before the 2024 update. The 2025 Hilux might be the last model before the 2026 model marks the ninth generation lineup. But it’s largely speculation at this point.
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