The Toyota Hilux Gets Facelifted Again in Australia, Third Time's the Charm

The eighth-generation Toyota HiLux has just received its third facelift in Australia. Toyota’s best-selling midsize pickup truck last and the top-selling vehicle “Down Under” last year is thus trying to remain competitive in an ever-growing segment where the Ford Ranger is trying to set the standards.

The model has received a redesigned front end with a more prominent bumper, a new octagonal radiator grille flanked by restyled intakes, and a trapezoidal lower section, which make the vehicle look more adventure- and work-ready. The rest of the design mimics the one of the previous model. Dampers showed up on the tailgate to facilitate operation.

Customers can choose from different finishes for the grille and bumpers. The entry-level WorkMate can be specced with the black honeycomb mesh grille for a tougher look. The SR gets the silver-colored lower bumper finish, while the SR5 sports the black upper grille, dark-tinted LEDs, and gloss-black items such as door handles and mirror caps.

At the top of the lineup, Toyota puts the Rogue and the performance-focused GR Sport with looks to match their reputation, provided by usual bodykit.

A new powertrain option shows up in the range. The 2.8-liter four-cylinder turbodiesel engine with 48-volt technology powers the Rogue and SR5 as standard, while it is offered as an option for the 4x4 SR.

The mild-hybrid system integrates a DC/DC converter, a 48-volt battery, and a belt-driven electric motor generator, which enable a stop/start system. The carmaker claims that this tech improves fuel economy by 6 to 10 percent and reduces noise and vibration.

The system generates 201 horsepower (204 PS) and 369 pound-feet (500 Nm) of torque. If the European HiLux is anything to go by, then the 48-volt technology should add 16 horsepower and 48 pound-feet.

The Multi-Terrain Select system with six driving modes is standard for all mild-hybrids in the range. Also standard are the dual-zone automatic control, smart entry/start, power windows, and carpet floor mats.

Customers can still choose the non-electrified 2.8-liter and 2.4-liter turbodiesel and the 2.7-liter petrol engine with either manual or automatic transmissions in a front-wheel or four-wheel drive layout.

Toyota came up with wireless charging pads located next to the gear shifter and two USB-C ports in the back, placed near the AC vents for the SR5, Rogue, and GR Sport grades.

The 2025 Toyota Hilux will hit the Australian showrooms in March 2024, with prices starting at 26,475 Australian dollars (US$17,260) for the front-wheel drive. Those who would rather go for the all-wheel drive must know that the 4x4s start at 40,965 Australian dollars (US$26,276), as reported by the Australian media.