2026 Toyota Hilux Revealed: First-Ever Electric Hilux Makes Its Debut
This Is the All-New 2026 Toyota Hilux – and Yes, It’s Gone Electric
Toyota has pulled the wraps off the all-new, ninth-generation Hilux – and it’s a major moment for one of the world’s most recognisable pick-ups. Long celebrated for its strength, reliability and go-anywhere toughness, the latest Hilux now steps into the electrified age with the debut of the first-ever battery electric version.
This new generation is a key part of Toyota’s multipath philosophy, which gives customers a choice of powertrains to best suit their needs and local driving conditions. Rather than offering a single solution, Toyota will launch the new Hilux with a line-up that includes a fully electric model, an electrified diesel, and confirmation of a hydrogen fuel cell version due in 2028.
UK sales are set to begin in June 2026, with specifications and prices to be confirmed nearer the time.
Tough and Agile: A Fresh Design Direction
Toyota says the new Hilux was developed under a “Tough and Agile” design theme, and that’s clear at first glance. The front end has been completely redesigned with slimmer LED headlights and a wide central bar proudly carrying the TOYOTA name. The battery-electric (BEV) model features a more aerodynamic, grille-less design with dedicated alloy wheels to help improve efficiency.
At the rear, all models gain a new deck step for easier loading, and some versions feature redesigned side steps. Toyota has also simplified the range to one body style – the Double Cab – which remains the most popular choice among UK buyers.
Inside, there’s a marked step-up in quality and comfort. Drawing inspiration from the latest Land Cruiser, the Hilux’s cabin now features a more horizontal layout and improved materials. Depending on grade, there’s a 12.3-inch driver’s combimeter and a matching 12.3-inch central touchscreen, creating a fully digital driving environment. Connectivity has also been upgraded with wireless phone charging and new USB ports in the rear seats.
All-wheel drive and off-road controls have been grouped centrally for ease of use, and the BEV model adopts a shift-by-wire drive selector for smooth operation. For the first time in Western Europe, Hilux also gains electric power steering, improving manoeuvrability and precision on and off road.
Electrified Power for Every Need
The ninth-generation Hilux line-up is built around flexibility. Whether you want zero-emission driving, diesel torque with mild-hybrid efficiency, or future-proof hydrogen power, Toyota has an option ready.
Hilux BEV (Battery Electric Vehicle)
- 59.2kWh lithium-ion battery with front and rear eAxles for permanent AWD
- 205Nm torque at the front / 268.6Nm at the rear
- Approx. 715kg payload and 1,600kg towing capacity
- WLTP range of around 150 miles (pre-homologation)
- Maintains the same 700mm wading depth as the diesel model
- Features Multi-Terrain Select for adaptable off-road performance
Toyota says the electric Hilux will appeal strongly to fleet and business users seeking a zero-emission pick-up that can still perform demanding work. The truck retains its body-on-frame construction, ensuring strength and durability remain uncompromised, while underbody protection keeps the battery safe from off-road damage or water ingress.
Hilux 2.8D 48V (Mild Hybrid Diesel)
- 2.8-litre diesel engine paired with a 48V lithium-ion hybrid system
- Components mounted beneath the rear seats to preserve cabin space
- Smoother, quieter and more efficient performance
- Payload: up to one tonne / Towing: up to 3,500kg
- Maintains full off-road capability, including 700mm wading depth
- Benefits from Multi-Terrain Select and Multi-Terrain Monitor
Production of the 2.8D 48V begins in spring 2026, and it is expected to be the volume seller for the UK and Western Europe.
Hilux Hydrogen Fuel Cell (Arriving 2028)
Toyota has confirmed that a hydrogen fuel cell Hilux will join the line-up in 2028. Developed in the UK, this version will demonstrate Toyota’s commitment to hydrogen as a clean-energy solution and will help encourage the growth of hydrogen infrastructure across Europe.
Smarter, Safer, More Connected
Toyota has equipped the new Hilux with its most advanced suite of driver assistance and safety systems to date. The latest Toyota Safety Sense package adds new functions such as Low Speed Acceleration Suppression, Proactive Driving Assist, and an Emergency Driving Stop System. There are also features like a Blind Spot Monitor, Safe Exit Assist, and a Driver Monitor Camera, plus over-the-air software updates to keep systems current.
For fleets and connected users, the MyToyota app provides remote access to key information including location, fuel or charge level, and journey data. Fleet managers can even view information for multiple vehicles at once, making it easier to manage operations efficiently.
