Australia is playing a central role in the development testing of the next-generation 2025 Toyota HiLux. The new model, which promises to be larger and more advanced, is currently undergoing tests in Australia. Despite Toyota’s efforts to keep the vehicle under wraps, there is speculation that it may be officially revealed later this year, following reports from Japan.
Ray Munday, Toyota Australia’s vehicle evaluation manager, confirmed that Australia is instrumental in the testing of various global off-road and commercial models, including the new HiLux. This has positioned Toyota Australia as an essential hub for real-world vehicle evaluation and development, particularly for commercial products like the HiLux.
The exact release date of the new HiLux in Australia is not yet confirmed, but it is widely expected to be in 2025. This timeline will introduce the new model following the updated mild-hybrid turbo-diesel engine version of the current HiLux, which is set to arrive in the coming months.
The new HiLux is heavily influenced by the 2024 Toyota Tacoma from North America and is anticipated to be available in Australia within two years of the introduction of the GR Sport flagship, which was launched in September 2023.
Details about the powertrains for the 2025 HiLux remain largely confidential. However, it is expected to continue with Toyota’s 48-volt mild-hybrid 2.8-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine, which will also be the sole option for the upcoming Toyota Prado. There is also speculation about the inclusion of the current HiLux GR Sport’s more powerful turbo-diesel engine and the possibility of a new full-hybrid powertrain based around a 2.4-litre turbo-diesel. Toyota has also hinted at plans for an all-electric HiLux targeted at fleets.
The next-generation HiLux will be built on a variation of the TNGA-F ladder-frame platform, which also underpins the Toyota LandCruiser 300 Series and other models like the new Prado, Tacoma, Tundra, and Lexus GX. This platform will allow for enhancements in size, refinement, and technology and potentially accommodate powerful engines like the LC300’s 3.3-litre twin-turbo diesel V6.
Toyota remains tight-lipped about the official reveal of the new HiLux. However, Sean Hanley, Toyota Australia’s vice-president of sales, marketing, and franchise operations, acknowledged the inevitable arrival of a next-generation HiLux and reiterated the significant role of Toyota Australia in its development and testing.
Stay tuned to Garage Dreams for more updates on the 2025 Toyota HiLux as information becomes available.
