- Leaked documents reveal Toyota’s next Hilux could lose its entry level engines.
- A 2.8 liter hybrid diesel may become the only option in many markets.
- Toyota could unveil the new Hilux at the Thailand Motor Expo in November.
While the Toyota Hilux still tops sales charts in several markets around the world despite being a decade old, the time for a successor is overdue. That replacement is now edging closer, and leaked documents from Australia offer a better look yet at what’s coming. Among the most notable changes are the likely disappearance of the entry-level petrol engine and the possible phase-out of the Extra-Cab body style.
Read: Toyota’s Next Hilux Rumored To Break Cover In November
Information about the new Hilux was recently published through an online database operated by Australia’s Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications, Sport, and Arts. They refer to the new Hilux as the ‘AN2’ and make no mention of the 2.7-liter petrol engine that’s currently offered. Additionally, the 2.4-liter turbo-diesel engine of the outgoing model is not mentioned in the documents.
Streamlined Engine Choices
This has prompted Australia’s Drive to speculate that the 2.8-liter turbodiesel currently available in the Hilux, as well as other Toyota models like the Land Cruiser Prado, may become the only engine option. This 2.8-liter engine comes standard with 48-volt mild-hybrid technology, producing 201 hp (150 kW) and 369 lb-ft (500 Nm) of torque.
It’s understood that all Hilux models fitted with this electrified 2.8-liter will come standard with automatic transmissions. However, Toyota will have a solution for those who want to row their own gears, offering a non-electrified version of this engine alongside a manual gearbox. A non-electrified automatic is also possible.
Like the current model, the next Hilux will be offered with both rear- and four-wheel drive, though most versions are expected to come equipped with four-wheel drive.
When Will We See It?
Toyota could premiere the new Hilux as soon as the Thailand Motor Expo in late November. In addition to having a thoroughly updated exterior design, the latest Hilux will sport an overhauled interior that includes a digital instrument cluster and a large infotainment display.
There’s also talk of Toyota working on a high-performance model to take on the Ford Ranger Raptor. If that happens, it may draw power from the 2.4-liter i-Force Max Hybrid setup used in the Tacoma, where it delivers 326 hp and 465 lb-ft (630 Nm) of torque. Looking further down the line, Toyota has already confirmed that an all-electric Hilux is also on the horizon.