Toyota Hilux hybrid revealed! 48-volt diesel to boost fuel economy by 10 percent

Toyota has finally confirmed a hybrid version of the popular Hilux ute, which is said to slash fuel consumption by around 10 percent.

Set to be fitted as standard on 4×4 SR5 and Rogue dual cab models and available as an option on the 4×4 SR dual cab, the new electrified option will arrive locally in the first half of 2024.

While not a series-parallel or ‘self-charging’ petrol-electric hybrid as we’ve come to expect from Toyotas like the RAV4 midsize SUV, the Hilux exploys a 48-volt system armed with a small electric motor-generator that is coupled with the 2.8-litre turbo-diesel engine and six-speed automatic already found in the pickup range.

The current Hilux SR5 dual-cab has a combined fuel consumption of 7.9L/100km so the 10 percent improvement would likely see that figure drop to around 7.1L/100km.

Toyota says the addition of this system has enabled it to employ an advanced stop/start system and improve the overall drivability of the Hilux, along with reductions in noise, vibration and harshness. 

The Japanese car manufacturer was quick to point out the hybrid system will have no impact on the Hilux’s 3500kg towing capacity.

Toyota Australia vice president sales of marketing and franchise operations, Sean Hanley, said the new system was part of the brand’s efforts to reduce its environmental impact, while also boosting the performance of the Hilux.

“This new technology will not only improve fuel consumption, but customers will also benefit from enhanced on and off-road performance, making the Hilux even more appealing for a weekend away or longer term excursion into the Outback,” he said.

While good news for buyers, the mild-hybrid system is unlikely to pack the capability of the series-parallel I-Force Max system found in the newly unveiled Toyota Tacoma, which is sold in the US as that market’s midsize pick-up.

This I-Force Max system couples Toyota’s 2.4-litre turbo-petrol four-cylinder engine with a 35kW electric motor integrated into an eight-speed automatic, with peak outputs of 243kW and 630Nm. 

Toyota has yet to reveal official fuel economy or weight figures for the Tacoma hybrid but the drivetrain is shared with the Lexus RX500h large SUV, which claims an average consumption of 6.5L/100km. 

It’s likely this powertrain will have to wait until the next generation of Hilux arrives, with an expected debut some time in 2024.