All-new Hilux makes European debut at the 2026 Brussels Motor Show
Toyota has pulled the covers off the all-new Hilux at the 2026 Brussels Motor Show (9–18 January), and it’s a big moment for the brand’s toughest workhorse. This ninth-generation Hilux isn’t just a fresh facelift either, it’s the first time the legendary pick-up has been offered with a fully electric powertrain.
That’s quite a leap for a truck that’s built its reputation over more than 50 years and around 27 million sales worldwide. Despite the new tech, Toyota is keen to stress that the Hilux DNA hasn’t changed. Quality, durability and reliability are still very much the name of the game.
Rather than forcing everyone down one route, Toyota is sticking with its “multipath” approach, meaning buyers get a choice of powertrains depending on how and where they use their Hilux. For Europe, that means two options: a familiar 2.8-litre diesel with 48V mild-hybrid tech (expected to be the big seller in the UK), and an all-new battery-electric Hilux. Both versions are on display in Brussels.
In line with what buyers actually want, instead of government policy makers, the new Hilux will only be available as a double cab, blending proper workhorse ability with a comfortable, well-kitted cabin. Expect plenty of Toyota Safety Sense tech too, with a full suite of driver assistance systems fitted as standard.
Visually, the new Hilux looks sharper and more purposeful, following what Toyota calls a “Tough and Agile” design theme. Underneath, it sticks with traditional body-on-frame construction, a big reason the Hilux has such a strong off-road reputation.
UK sales are set to start in June, with full specs and pricing to be confirmed closer to launch.
Hilux 48V diesel
The 48V diesel setup carries over from the current model, pairing Toyota’s 2.8-litre diesel with a 48V lithium-ion battery. The result is a smoother, quieter drive, especially when pulling away or accelerating, along with small but welcome gains in fuel economy and CO₂ emissions.
Crucially, none of the hard-working stuff has been watered down. Payload remains at a full tonne, towing is still rated at 3.5 tonnes, and it’ll happily wade through water up to 700mm deep. Off-road tech includes Multi-Terrain Select, plus cameras that help you place the wheels when things get tight or slippery.
Hilux BEV
The big news, though, is the all-electric Hilux. This is Toyota’s answer for businesses that want zero tailpipe emissions without giving up toughness or off-road ability.
Power comes from a 59.2kWh battery feeding electric motors on both axles for permanent four-wheel drive. Torque figures stand at 205Nm up front and 268Nm at the rear. Official WLTP figures suggest up to 160 miles of range combined, stretching to 236 miles in urban driving.
There are some compromises compared to the diesel: payload drops to 715kg and towing is capped at 1.6 tonnes. Still, for many users that’ll be plenty.
However, as a zero-emissions vehicle, the Hilux BEV benefits from much lower BIK rates, making it significantly cheaper for company drivers and businesses to run from a tax perspective. For fleets and owner-drivers who take their Hilux home at night, that low BIK cost could be one of the BEV’s biggest selling points, even if its payload and towing figures don’t quite match the diesel.
The BEV version keeps the same ladder-frame chassis and delivers smooth, near-silent progress, helped by standard electric power steering and well-sorted suspension. Ground clearance is 212mm and wading depth is unchanged at 700mm, proving Toyota hasn’t gone soft just because it’s gone electric. A BEV-specific Multi-Terrain Select system tweaks braking and torque delivery to keep things under control when the going gets rough.
