The Next Toyota Hilux Drops in November: Here’s Everything We Know
If you’re a fan of rugged pickups, you’ve probably got your eyes locked on what’s coming next from Toyota. The new Toyota Hilux is rumored to make its official debut in November, and expectations are high. In this blog, we’ll dig into what changes might be coming for the Toyota Hilux, whether a hybrid variant is on the way, and what this might mean for fans of the Toyota Hilux pickup truck line.
What Changes Can We Expect for the Next Toyota Hilux?
Toyota hasn’t confirmed all the details yet, but leaks and industry whispers offer a decent picture of what the next Toyota Hilux might bring to the table.Design & Exterior Updates
One of the more consistent rumors is that the next Hilux will feature more aggressive styling. Expect squared-off wheel arches with chunkier black plastic cladding, a more vertical grille, slimmer headlamps, and a possible full-width LED light bar at the front. The general silhouette might stay familiar, but the visual upgrades aim to give the new Toyota Hilux a tougher, more modern stance.Platform & Chassis
Interestingly, Toyota is reportedly sticking with its current ladder-frame (IMV) chassis rather than switching to the newer TNGA-F architecture used in the latest Land Cruiser and Tacoma. That means the underlying bones remain tried-and-true, which could be a plus for durability and parts compatibility in existing markets.Powertrain Changes & Engine Line-Up
This is where things get intriguing. Leaked documents suggest Toyota may drop some of its entry-level petrol engines. The current 2.7-liter petrol and 2.4-liter turbo-diesel engines may no longer be offered, leaving the 2.8-liter turbodiesel (already paired with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system) as the primary option. In many markets, all models might come standard with this electrified powertrain. There’s also speculation that there will be a non-hybrid version of that same engine for those who resist electrification, perhaps with a manual gearbox. Expect both rear-wheel drive and four-wheel drive versions to continue. And for those thinking the mid-spec “extra cab” might survive, leaks say it may be phased out.Interior & Tech Enhancements
Inside, the new Toyota Hilux is expected to take a leap. Think large infotainment screens, digital instrument clusters, upgraded center consoles, and possibly a more modern shift lever design. Also on the list are enhanced driver assistance and safety systems, aided by changes in the electronics architecture (e.g., electric power steering) that will allow Toyota to add more advanced ADAS features.Launch Timing & Markets
Toyota is rumored to unveil the new pickup at the Thailand Motor Expo, running from November 28 to December 10, 2025. Some sources refer to the upcoming model as “AN2.” Following the reveal, it may roll out to key markets in 2026.Will a Hybrid Variant Be Launched?
The short answer: yes, hybrid (or at least electrified) variants seem quite likely. Let’s break down what the leaks suggest and what they imply.Mild Hybrid Already in Use
Toyota has already incorporated a 48-volt mild-hybrid assist system in the current 2.8-litre diesel Hilux, delivering modest gains in fuel efficiency and emissions. That means the engineering groundwork is already in place.Full Hybrid or Plug-in Hybrid Variant?
Rumors hint at Toyota possibly introducing a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) or stronger hybrid version, especially in markets with stricter emissions regulations. One speculation: borrow the i-Force Max hybrid powertrain from the Tacoma (which gives ~326 hp and 465 lb-ft of torque) and adapt it into a Toyota Hilux pickup truck variant. That said, official confirmation is still missing. For now, the new Toyota Hilux will almost certainly carry forward the mild-hybrid diesel, and possibly a non-electrified version for those who prefer simplicity.Why Toyota Might Go Hybrid
There’s more than compliance at play. Hybrid and electrified models are steadily gaining share. Globally, hybrids now represent a growing slice of Toyota’s sales mix, at times over 40–50% in some markets. Making a hybrid Hilux isn’t just about emissions; it’s about staying relevant in markets that are shifting. Moreover, forecasts suggest that hybrid and electric variants could make up 15–20% of future Hilux sales. If those estimates play out, Toyota could meet market demand while keeping its rugged DNA intact.Putting It All Together
Here’s a quick recap:- The new Toyota Hilux is expected to debut in November at the Thailand Motor Expo, with a launch window crossing into early 2026.
- Styling updates will be bold but evolutionary: squared arches, sleeker lights, chunky cladding, and a new grille.
- Toyota will likely prune the engine lineup, putting emphasis on a 2.8-liter diesel with mild-hybrid assistance.
- A more robust hybrid or plug-in hybrid variant remains plausible, especially in regions pushing electrification.
- Inside, the Toyota Hilux pickup truck will get modern upgrades: large displays, digital gauges, and better safety/ADAS hardware.
