Toyota Hilux : Australia’s automotive landscape is shifting, and the Toyota Hilux—once the dominant force in the ute segment—now faces increasing competition. In 2025, the Ford Ranger retained its position as Australia’s top-selling vehicle, outselling the Hilux by a notable margin. This shift highlights evolving consumer preferences and the demand for more advanced technology, as the current Hilux model nears the end of its lifecycle after nearly a decade on the market.
Hybrid Technology Enhances Performance
Toyota has responded to these challenges by introducing its V-Active mild-hybrid technology to the Hilux lineup in 2025. This innovation goes beyond meeting emissions standards—it enhances the driving experience. The 48-volt system pairs a compact electric motor with the proven 2.8-litre turbo-diesel engine, delivering an additional 12kW of power and 65Nm of torque while improving fuel efficiency by 6-10%. Real-world tests have shown even better results, with some drivers reporting fuel consumption as low as 9.1L/100km.
The hybrid system recaptures energy during braking and deceleration, storing it in a lithium-ion battery for later use. This not only boosts acceleration but also refines the start-stop function and improves off-road control, particularly on steep or slippery terrain.
Core Capabilities Remain Strong
Between all those modern touches, the Hilux hasn’t forgotten how to be rough and tough. All of the model’s key features remain in the hybrid – such as a 3,500kg towing limit and 1,000kg payload, and 700mm wading depth that have helped make it a favourite among trades and adventurers. The hybrid is offered in double-cab 4×4 automatic guise in SR, SR5 and Rogue trim levels, the latter adding items such as dual-zone climate control and improved connectivity.
The Next Generation: What to Expect
The upcoming all-new Hilux is expected next in 2025. It will probably be based on the TNGA-F platform, with the option of some kind of high-tech i-Force Max hybrid powertrain that produces 243kW/630Nm. This upgrade is designed to fix issues related to the model’s aging structure, and place it on a more even footing with contemporary rivals such as the Ford Ranger, Mitsubishi Triton, and future Nissan Navara.
Market Trends and Toyota’s Strategy
Utes are still big business down under, with more than 229,000 ending up in the hands of Australians in 2025—nearly all of which are 4×4 models. Toyota Australia’s vice-president of sales and marketing, Sean Hanley, has declared the car maker’s intention to continue improvements to the Hilux with input from local customers. It may not have immediately shot to the top of the sales charts in the new car market, but what it does is double down on Toyota’s new approach to blending hybrid efficiency and the toughness and capabilities that have underpinned the Hilux for generations.
Conclusion A Bridge to the Future
The hybrid Hilux is a smart progress, it fuses notorious durability within modern levels of efficiency. While Toyota gears up for the next generation, the company has continued to target Australian drivers looking for a no-nonsense, tough, reliable and highly capable ute with the latest safety and technology. In an ever changing automotive world, The Hilux adapts to its surroundings and continues to be a reliable, trusted option for many years to come.
