Toyota has pulled the covers off the all-new 9th-generation Hilux in Bangkok, marking a major evolution for the brand’s iconic IMV (Innovative International Multi-Purpose Vehicle) lineage. Born in Thailand and engineered for the world, the new Hilux blends Toyota’s signature toughness with a bold step into future mobility—now offering both ICE and BEV variants for the first time.
A New Chapter for a Global Workhorse
Since debuting in 1968, the Hilux nameplate has earned its place as one of Toyota’s most trusted and enduring vehicles—serving customers in over 195 countries. This new generation continues that legacy with a sharper focus on versatility, everyday comfort, and long-term dependability.
Toyota positions the new model as a true “Partner For Life,” designed to handle everything from demanding worksites to family road trips and light adventure. Its development leans heavily into the brand’s multi-pathway mobility vision, ensuring every market gets the right propulsion option.
“Hilux has always been made by the people, for the people,” said Simon Humphries, Chief Branding Officer and Head of Design for Toyota Motor Corporation. “It’s a vehicle shaped by real voices, cultures, and communities—and one that truly represents Toyota’s belief in Mobility for All.”
Built in Thailand, Developed Across Continents
The 9th-gen Hilux is deeply rooted in the IMV story. Introduced in 2004 under the leadership of Chairman Akio Toyoda, the IMV project emphasised locally developed vehicles tailored for global use—making Thailand its strategic home base.
“The IMV story proves that global success is rooted in local strength,” said Anyarat Sutthibenjakul, Regional Chief Engineer, Toyota Motor Asia. “This new Hilux represents years of listening, learning, and developing vehicles that truly serve real-world needs.”
Development was carried out in close collaboration between teams in Thailand and Australia, merging real-world conditions, engineering insights, and fresh design direction.
“We set out to reimagine a vehicle that our customers can be proud of,” added Nicolas Hogios, Regional Design Chief, Toyota Australia. “It’s tougher, smarter, and more expressive—ready to meet the future without compromising its legendary DNA.”
Engineered for Every Environment
Toyota claims major improvements in overall rigidity and comfort, supported by refined suspension tuning and the introduction of Electric Power Steering (EPS) for more confident, precise driving on all terrains. The platform continues to deliver its core strengths—load capability, towing robustness, and off-road performance.
Multi-Pathway Power: BEV Joins the Family
For the first time, the Hilux will be offered with both ICE and BEV powertrains, each tuned for local conditions:
- Hilux BEV
• Immediate torque delivery
• Near-silent operation
• Maintains body-on-frame capability (payload, towing, articulation)
• Aimed at both commercial operators and lifestyle users - Hilux ICE
• Traditional combustion power
• Optimised for reliability and rugged use across diverse environments
Toyota plans a phased introduction beginning FY2026 for selected markets.
Smarter, Safer, More Connected
Inside, the Hilux adopts Toyota’s latest safety and infotainment technologies, including:
- Toyota Safety Sense 3 with enhanced pre-collision and lane-keeping functions
- Panoramic View Monitor (PVM) and Multi-Terrain Monitor (MTM)
- Next-generation connected infotainment with smartphone integration
- Lifecycle-focused connected services for ownership convenience
Together, these additions aim to elevate the Hilux beyond its utility roots, reinforcing its role as a long-term ownership companion.
A Symbol of Trust in Asia
The Hilux remains one of Toyota’s most strategic nameplates in the region—representing durability, long-term value, and strong community ties. This launch also highlights Toyota’s continued partnership with Thailand, which remains a major production and development hub for the Hilux and wider IMV family.
From the Australian outback to Southeast Asia’s bustling cities, the Hilux’s reputation as a tough yet dependable workhorse is mirrored in this latest chapter—a model engineered not only to meet current demands, but also to support Toyota’s long-term vision for a carbon-neutral future.
The Hilux isn’t just getting a refresh, it is stepping into its next era. ICE or BEV, Toyota is aiming to keep choices open to different consumers in different markets.
