New hybrid Toyota Hilux – official details revealed
Toyota Australia has revealed further details on the mild-hybrid Hilux bakkie that will go on sale in 2024.
The first mention of the hybrid bakkie derivative came earlier this year when Toyota CEO Koji Sato presented his first press conference for the year.
The CEO announced the automaker’s commitment to reducing emissions, adding the brand would release ten new EV models by 2026, including several hybrid versions.
Toyota’s plans for South Africa included the mild-hybrid Hilux and Fortuner SUV in early 2024, but no further details were given regarding what local enthusiasts could expect.
However, on Tuesday (27 July), Toyota Australia released a press statement that revealed more details on the Hilux configuration specs – giving South Africans some indication of what to expect.
What to expect
According to the statement, The Toyota Hilux with mild-hybrid (MHEV) technology features a 48-volt battery, a compact electric motor generator, and additional components that work together with the trusted 2.8-litre turbo-diesel GD6 engine and six-speed automatic transmission.
This configuration is expected to result in a fuel saving of 10%, which would put the fuel consumption target in South Africa at just over 7.0L/100km. – which is a saving of at least 1.0L/100km over the current models.
“We are continually striving to reduce the fuel consumption of our vehicles to help reduce on-going costs for customers, as well as helping reduce our environmental impact, and the addition of 48-Volt Technology to our biggest-selling vehicle line will contribute to this,” said Toyota Australia Vice President of Sales, Marketing and Franchise Operations Sean Hanley.
According to Hanley, the MHEV drivelines will not affect the Hilux’s performance, and the vehicle will maintain its ability to tow up to 3.5 tonnes when braked.
“This new technology will not only improve fuel consumption, but customers will also benefit from enhanced on and off-road performance, making the HiLux even more appealing for a weekend away or longer-term excursion into the outback,” he said.
In Australia, mild-hybrid technology will be standard on all 4×4 SR5 and Rogue Double Cab models and be available as an option for 4×4 SR Double Cab.
There is no official announcement regarding the MHEV engine that will be used on the Hilux bakkies built in South Africa and the specific trims that will feature it.
This lack of information also extends to the planned mild-hybrid Toyota Fortuner SUV; However, the SUV will probably use the same engines as the Hilux since they share the same chassis.
Toyota noted that the mild-hybrid Hilux will go on sale in early 2024 in Australia, While the new bakkie would likely hit the South African showroom floors by the end of next year at the latest.
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