2026 Toyota Hilux looks like a major facelift

In many markets outside of North America, the Toyota Hilux has cemented itself as one of the most popular options in the pickup truck market. Over the decades, it has earned a reputation for rugged reliability and versatility. However, even the icons need an update, and the current generation is long in need of an overhaul.

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A camouflaged prototype recently spotted in Thailand along with a newly filed trademark for “Hilux Travo” suggests Toyota’s midsize pickup is entering the final stages of development. It is reported that the next generation Hilux will make its global debut in the second half of 2025. While specific details remain under wraps, it’s clear Toyota is working hard to maintain the truck’s durability while updating it to meet contemporary needs.

A disguised glimpse of what’s to come.

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Spy photos shared by Thai car website headlight magazinegiving us our first look at what the next-generation Hilux will actually look like in prototype form. The truck shows off an updated front and rear design, while the midsection remains largely unchanged, suggesting Toyota has kept the existing cab structure, roof, doors and greenhouse design intact. When the truck is launched, it will almost certainly be joined by a dual-cab model and single-cab and chassis-cab variants.

The front end has been completely redesigned, taking on a sharper, more aggressive stance. Slim headlights appear to be connected by trim pieces that complement the square grille and sculpted sides of the front bumper.

The fenders have also been updated with plastic cladding for a rugged aesthetic. At the rear, the truck features a redesigned bed with angular taillights and integrated steps in the bumper for added style and functionality. While interior details are scant, we can expect the revamped cabin to feature higher-quality materials, updated technology, and general improvements to fit and finish.

Familiar platform with key upgrades

Toyota has been tight-lipped about the debut of the next-generation Hilux, but all signs point to it being a heavily updated model rather than an all-new design. This is consistent with the brand’s strategy for the Camry sedan and upcoming RAV4 SUV.

In the same context, the new Hilux is expected to ride on an updated version of its predecessor’s proven IMV ladder frame platform, rather than using the more modern TNGA-F architecture found in the Tacoma and Land Cruiser.

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Despite the inherited chassis, Toyota engineers are likely to work on the suspension and steering, resulting in a more refined ride and better handling. The introduction of electric power steering could pave the way for more sophisticated ADAS suites. Additionally, the Hilux may benefit from having disc brakes on both axles across the range, further modernizing the truck’s capabilities.

As for powertrains, the new Hilux is likely to continue using the mild-hybrid 2.8-litre four-cylinder diesel engine already in the outgoing model, as well as non-electrified petrol and diesel engines available depending on market conditions. In addition, Toyota also showed prototypes with all-electric and hydrogen fuel cell powertrains and officially confirmed that the Hilux electric car will enter production in Thailand by the end of 2025, most likely based on the next generation model.

Names and competitors

Another sign of things to come is the Hilux Travo trademark, which was filed with Thailand’s Department of Intellectual Property (DIP) on December 23, 2024. Naturally, this has led to speculation in the local media that the “Travo” name will be a suffix for the ninth-generation model in the region, following the example of the eighth-generation Hilux Revo and seventh-generation Hilux Vigo. However, in most other markets, the truck is simply called Hilux. No frills, just a truck people know and trust.

The long awaited refresh

The current Hilux generation has been with us since 2015 and has stayed relevant through a series of updates in 2017, 2020 and most recently 2024. The latest revamp adds a redesigned nose with sculpted bumpers and a modern grille, as well as a mild-hybrid diesel, but the rest of the body and interior can’t hide the truck’s age, especially compared to newer competitors. Compare.

More: 2027 Toyota Corolla to launch next year with plug-in hybrid option

Speaking of rivals, the Hilux faces some heavyweights. Debuting in 2021, the Ford Ranger is expected to receive a mid-cycle refresh in 2025 to keep it fresh and highly competitive.

Other regional rivals include the Mitsubishi L200/Triton, Isuzu D-Max, Mazda BT-50, Volkswagen Amarok, the newly launched Kia Tasman, and a growing list of Chinese contenders such as the Great Wall Cannon Ute and BYD Shark. It’s clear that Toyota needs to excel with the next generation Hilux if it wants to stay at the top.

Spy Shots: Headlightmag