Toyota is expected to bring the ninth-generation Hilux to India this month, just eight months after its global debut. That's a faster turnaround than most expect from Toyota's India pipeline and it matters because this generation is a proper step up from the outgoing model with a redesigned interior, a dual-screen dashboard as well as the possibility of mild-hybrid tech making it to the India-spec version. Based on everything that has surfaced on the internet so far, here is all that we can expect from the updated Toyota pickup.
What's Changed on the New Hilux?
The biggest updates are inside. The cabin gets a dual 12.3-inch screen setup with one screen serving as the digital instrument cluster and another as the touchscreen infotainment unit. This means it replaces the older
analogue-digital combination that felt dated next to rivals.
A redesigned three-spoke steering wheel sits in front of it and Toyota has kept physical buttons for climate and key controls instead of burying everything in touch menus which makes more sense for a pickup used in rough conditions.
Feature additions include ventilated front seats, dual-zone climate control, wireless charging, terrain and drive modes, a 360-degree camera along with connected car tech with over-the-air update capability. On the safety side, expect blind-spot monitoring, driver drowsiness detection and ADAS functions at the top of the range.
Outside, the front gets slimmer LED headlamps sitting higher on the bonnet which are connected by a black strip carrying Toyota lettering across the grille. The bumper is wider and more angular and the rear uses vertical taillamps with C-shaped lighting elements, a noticeably cleaner look than the current model's rear end.
Engine, Hybrid Tech and Expected Price
The India-spec Toyota Hilux is expected to carry over the existing 2.8-litre diesel producing 204 hp and 500 Nm paired with a 6-speed manual or automatic and a standard 4WD setup since the new Hilux continues on the same IMV ladder-frame platform.
What's still unconfirmed is whether Toyota will introduce its 48V Neo Drive mild-hybrid system on the India version similar to what's already available on the Fortuner sold here.
Pricing for the outgoing Hilux currently runs from Rs 28.52 lakh to Rs 36 lakh (ex-showroom) and the new generation is expected to come in higher given the cabin overhaul and added features. If you're eyeing a lifestyle pickup truck and have been sitting on a decision, waiting for July's confirmed pricing now makes more sense than booking the current version.
