The world of pickups is divided into two sides. On one side, we have a full load of amazing pickups that are great in so many ways. On the other, there is the HiLux, the toughest pickup you can buy. It’s not the most capable, nor the prettiest one, but it always gets the job done. That’s why we all like this ute so much and that is why this is still the best-selling vehicle in Australia, even though the current generation has been around since 2015. From what we can see, the 2023 Toyota HiLux will come with some interesting novelties, which will make it even more competitive than before.
These updates will come mainly in terms of new standard features, particularly new drive-assist equipment. Other than that, things will remain largely the same. The 2023 Toyota HiLux will continue to offer a great level of practicality, utility and functionality, all combined with good driving characteristics and a decent level of comfort.
2023 Toyota HiLux Design
As we’ve just mentioned, the 2023 Toyota HiLux will continue with the familiar design. This generation has been around since 2015, so it’s no wonder it still rides on the good-old IMV platform. That’s not a bad thing at all, especially if utility is your top priority. This pickup is durable and pretty capable. At the same time, the ride quality is pretty good, even though this pickup still used leaf springs on the rear axle.
The next year’s model will continue in familiar layouts, either as a single and double-cab pickup. The styling still feels modern, especially if you pick some of the more expensive versions. With a wheelbase that’s either 2.750mm or 3.085mm, the HiLux is among the smaller pickups in the segment. However, that’s also a big advantage in terms of maneuverability and off-road potential.
Interior
The biggest updates for the next year will come to the inside. From what we know so far, the SR5 model will come with more safety features, such as a 360-degree camera, blind-zone warning, and rear cross-traffic alert. On the other hand, base models will come with a couple of visual upgrades, not just on the inside but in terms of the exterior as well (new wheels, body-colored door handles etc.)
Still, the overall cabin layout won’t change, and that’s not a bad thing at all. This pickup looks very nice from the inside. The dashboard looks very attractive, and also comes with a decent amount of tech features. Although most surfaces are hard to the touch, they are extremely durable and the whole cabin feels well assembled and solid as a rock.
2023 Toyota HiLux Engines
The engine lineup will remain the same. Therefore, a smaller 2.4-liter four-cylinder will remain the core of the offer. This engine puts out around 110kW (150hp) and 400Nm of torque and comes coupled with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic. It has enough power to get most jobs done, though we would always recommend you to pick the optional 2.8-liter turbodiesel, which features a max output of 150kW (201hp) and 500Nm of torque. Also, this engine is available with a 6-speed automatic only.
In some parts of the world, you can still get HiLux with a petrol engine. Two units of this kind are available. A smaller one is a 2.7-liter inline-four with around 160 horsepower. On the other hand, you can also get a good-old 4.0-liter V6, which puts out 235 horsepower.
2023 Toyota HiLux Release Date and Price
We expect to see the 2023 Toyota HiLux sometime in the last quarter of the year. In Australia, the base model goes around AU$24,000 before on-road costs. Key competitors are models like Ford Ranger, Isuzu D-Max, Mazda BT-50, Nissan Navara etc.