The Toyota Hilux pickup is now on sale with its first electrified powertrain, delivering enhanced performance on- and off-road.
Priced from £40,436.67 (excl. VAT), the Hilux Hybrid 48V makes its debut in the UK in the Invincible X double cab.
It’s the first time that the Hilux, initially launched in 1968, has been available with electrification. Toyota is also working on a hydrogen fuel cell Hilux.
The 48V mild hybrid system teams up the existing 2.8-litre turbodiesel engine with a new electric motor-generator, a 48V lithium-ion hybrid battery and a DC-DC converter. In common with other Hilux models, the Hybrid 48V is compatible with HVO100 diesel, a non-fossil fuel made from 100% renewable sources.
The mild hybrid powertrain is designed to enhance driving performance and give a more comfortable drive in both urban and off-road environments while also improving fuel efficiency.
During on-road driving, it delivers smoother, quicker acceleration and deceleration while the stop-start system gives a more comfortable drive in traffic and a faster response. The motor generator also adds to Hilux’s ability to overcome obstacles during off-road conditions and benefits from revised low-speed idling control.
The Hilux Hybrid 48V is the first Hilux to feature the Multi-Terrain Select system, operated using the MTS switch and mode selector on the centre console. This adjusts the vehicle’s drive control systems – drive force, suspension and hydraulic brake pressure – to enhance traction, manoeuvrability and stability in different driving conditions.
There are six settings: Sand, Mud, Rock, Dirt, Deep Snow and Auto. The digital multi-information display features a different background for each mode. In Sand, Mud, Deep Snow and Deep Snow modes in H4 and in all L4 modes, the VSC OFF indicator is illuminated; in all modes, the slip indicator light will flash on and off when brake control is being applied.
The new Hilux Hybrid 48V measures 5,325mm long, up to 1,900mm wide and 1,865mm high and comes with a 1,555mm long bed.
The mild hybrid system doesn’t impact load-carrying capability: payload is up to 1,000kg and towing capacity is 3,500kg. The Hilux 48V also comes with a running ground clearance of 310mm, and approach and departure angles at 29 and 27 degrees respectively.
It’s equipped with latest Toyota Safety Sense technology, such as an enhanced Pre-Collision System (PCS) that can better detect pedestrians at night, bicyclists during daytime and oncoming vehicles or pedestrians at intersections when making turns.
Other safety technologies include adaptive cruise control with road sign assist and automatic high beam function.
The Hilux 48V comes with an eight-inch Toyota Smart Connect multimedia system, complete with cloud-based navigation, voice assistant and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, plus a nine-speaker JBL premium audio package.
The MyToyota smartphone app can be used to operate certain vehicle functions remotely – door locking/unlocking and use of the air conditioning system to warm or cool the cabin ahead of a journey. The app also provides vehicle data and can be used for servicing scheduling and reminders.
