2026 Toyota Hilux: First Electric Truck, More Diesels that U.S. Buyers Can Only Drool Over

Toyota has revealed its ninth-generation HiLux pickup to the global market, wearing an all-new design, offering new powertrain options, and available as an electric truck. Toyota sells the Tacoma in the North American market, but has sold the HiLux globally for generations.

What’s New

The Toyota Australia team led design and conducted extensive development and testing of the new HiLux, making it the most Australian HiLux ever. “The new HiLux delivers a wide range of improvements to on and off-road drivability, safety and comfort, along with a new interior design and features, and new exterior design,” said Sean Hanley, Toyota Australia Vice President Sales, Marketing and Franchise Operations. The HiLux will also be sold in European markets

This new HiLux leans into Toyota’s multi-pathway approach to global vehicle electrification with a new hybrid variant as well as the HiLux’s first-ever electric powertrains. “With Hybrid 48V and diesel and petrol combustion engines included in the wider European range, Hilux will have more powertrain options than any other Toyota model, extending its market reach while maintaining the Quality, Durability and Reliability that have made it the world’s favorite pickup,” Toyota said in a statement.

Powertrain Options

Powertrain options vary by market. European HiLux models are available as electric, 48V hybrid, diesel, and gas variants. Australian markets will be powered primarily by the diesel engine, claiming 21 different cab, driveline, transmission, and trim combinations. However, the EV will be made available to fleet customers. Both markets will feature a hydrogen fuel-cell electric powertrain expected in calendar 2028.

Toyota’s global 2.8-liter turbodiesel 4-cylinder engine will be the base engine in both Australian and available in Eastern European markets, replacing the 2.4-liter unit. This engine makes 200 horsepower (150kW) and 369 lbs-ft (500Nm) of torque when paired with the standard 6-speed automatic; 6-speed manual versions make 310 lbs-ft (420Nm) of torque.

Toyota’s 2.7-liter gasoline engine will only be available in Eastern European markets and appears to be a carryover design. 

The 48V hybrid system was introduced to European HiLux models in 2025 and is set to become their volume seller. Much like the Tacoma, the HiLux hybrid hides the battery underneath the rear seat. Paired to the 2.8-liter engine, the hybrid is rated for 2,200 lbs of max payload and 7,716 lbs (3,500 kg) of towing capability.

Electric Truck

The 2026 model year introduces Toyota’s first electric truck, made primarily for European markets, with a focus on fleet sales in Australia. Using a 59.2 kWh lithium-ion battery and dual electric motors, the BEV model will be exclusively all-wheel drive. Information is scarce, but Toyota is claiming 151 lbs-ft (205Nm) of torque from the front eAxle and 198 lbs-ft (268.6Nm) at the rear, good for an estimated 1,576 lbs (715 kg) of payload and 3,527 lbs of max towing.

The EU measures range differently than the EPA, using the WLTP cycle, but claims a driving range of 240 kilometers on a single charge, equivalent to about 150 miles. This may not sound like a lot to US readers, but Europe is more geographically dense and is better equipped for EV charging.

Fuel Cell

Focusing on Toyota’s multi-pathway approach to global vehicle electrification, a hydrogen fuel cell model will be made available in 2028. “The fuel cell Hilux will be a further demonstration of Toyota’s commitment to realizing the potential of hydrogen as a valuable source of clean energy and will add stimulus to a wider roll-out of hydrogen eco-systems and infrastructure,” Toyota said in a statement

Capability

All models of the HiLux build on the nameplate’s legendary “Invincible” status. In addition to the towing and payload numbers referenced above, the HiLux is capable off-road with the Multi-Terrain Select system, which adjusts traction control, throttle response, and various other off-road capabilities.

Multiple upgrades to the HiLux frame improve strength, comfort, and crash performance, including new hydraulic engine mounts and shear-type cabin mounts, which reduce vibrations and enhance ride comfort.

New electric power steering is made possible thanks to a change in front suspension tower thickness, and the number of fitting bolts has increased from three to four, while two frontal frame cross members have also been revised.

Design

Toyota Australia led the design of the 2026 HiLux, in collaboration with Thailand and Japan team members. Based on a “Cyber Sumo” design, the look is supposed to convey strength and modern style.

Inside, designers have brought all the latest technology with widescreen infotainment, digital gauge clusters, and a clean tiered approach, making everything easily accessible.

Global Significance

The HiLux has been the pickup truck for global markets for nine generations and, just like the Tacoma here in the US, is an important pickup truck for the global economy. Toyota’s move to focus on electrification with this new platform leans into the acceptance of EVs worldwide. The primary version for all of Europe will be the electric model, with Western Europe only getting hybrid and EV models, and gas and diesel variants available in Eastern Europe.

Australia will focus primarily on the 2.8-liter diesel model, with the EV focused more toward fleet sales.

US Significance

While the US market continues to sell the Tacoma, this new HiLux could herald things to come stateside. Just today, Toyota USA announced a 1,870-acre mega site in North Carolina, focusing on battery production for 14 different battery production lines. Do not expect to see an EV Tacoma anytime soon, the current administration’s policies have set back US EV adoption, with Ford contemplating ending production on the F-150 Lightning.

HiLux adding a hybrid powertrain follows the Tacoma’s recent iForce Max rollout stateside, but there is little evidence that US consumers will see the 2.8-liter diesel anytime soon. US buyers still have a love affair with the full-size pickup truck.

Availability and Rollout

This ninth-generation HiLux will be available starting next month in European markets, along with the Australian market. Toyota is really pushing the EV model in Europe while making it available to fleets in Australia. Hydrogen fuel cell models are expected in 2028.