Toyota Hilux
The compact pickup introduced in 1968 that grew from a one-ton work truck into a global family of two- and four-wheel-drive vehicles.
Overview
Toyota launched the Hilux in March 1968 as a bonneted compact truck combining the roles previously served by the Briska and Light Stout. Toyota conceived the vehicle, while Hino developed and initially manufactured it at Hamura. The first RN10 used a separate frame, a 1.5-litre 2R petrol engine, a four-speed column-shift gearbox and a one-tonne payload.
The name is derived from “high” and “luxury,” but the Hilux earned its reputation primarily as a working vehicle. Over successive generations it added longer bodies, diesel engines, four-wheel drive, extended and double cabs, and increasingly passenger-car-like equipment. Production also moved from a largely Japanese export programme to a regional global system. Toyota says the model has been sold in more than 190 countries and regions.
Generations
First and second generations, 1968–1978
The first-generation Hilux was a three-seat, rear-wheel-drive pickup with independent front suspension and a leaf-sprung rigid rear axle. A long-wheelbase version joined the range during its life. The second generation arrived in May 1972 with short- and long-wheelbase bodies; its Highway version used a 2.0-litre 18R engine for easier expressway travel.
Third and fourth generations, 1978–1988
The September 1978 redesign placed greater emphasis on comfort and offered standard and long bodies as well as an extended cab. Toyota added diesel power in 1979, while four-wheel drive greatly expanded the Hilux’s use away from paved roads. The fourth generation arrived in November 1983 with a new body for its four-wheel-drive models. The closely related Hilux Surf multipurpose vehicle followed in 1984.
Fifth and sixth generations, 1988–2004
The fifth generation combined the themes of power, sturdiness and comfort. Its cabin and equipment moved closer to passenger-car standards, while flared arches distinguished many four-wheel-drive models. The sixth generation, launched in September 1997, separated the range more clearly into business trucks and personal-use sport pickups. Single, extra and double cabs, petrol and diesel engines, and market-specific payloads let Toyota address widely differing regional needs.
Seventh and eighth generations, 2004–2025
The seventh-generation Hilux was launched in Thailand in August 2004 as part of Toyota’s IMV project. It shared a global platform strategy with the Innova and Fortuner, and most production took place in regional plants rather than Japan. The eighth generation premiered in Thailand in May 2015. Its “redefining toughness” programme combined durability testing with efforts to improve ride comfort, cabin quietness, efficiency and safety.
Ninth generation, from 2025
Toyota unveiled the ninth-generation Hilux in Bangkok in November 2025. The programme retained the ladder-frame pickup layout while widening the range of powertrains: diesel and battery-electric versions were announced first, with a fuel-cell version planned for selected regions. Japan received its completely redesigned 2.8-litre diesel model in May 2026, with updated driver assistance, connected features and off-road control systems.