2023 Toyota HiLux review: Full range detailed

Even now, nearly a decade since its 2015 debut, the current HiLux remains a permanent fixture atop the new-car sales charts.

The HiLux is compelling for its versatility, with an expansive model range that starts for as little as $24,225 before on-road costs for a single-cab cab-chassis 4x2 variant and tops out at just over $70K for the Rogue 4x4 double-cab (for now).

It’s proficient on-road but excels when bitumen turns to dirt and 4x4 is engaged. Plus, it’s one of the most well-supported vehicles in the 4x4 aftermarket scene.

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JUMP AHEAD

• Pricing
• What body styles are available for the HiLux?
• What features are standard in the WorkMate?
• What key features do I get if I spend more?
• How safe is the Toyota HiLux?
• How comfortable and practical is the Toyota HiLux?
• How big is the tray/tub?
• I like driving – will I enjoy this car?
• Which Toyota HiLux engine uses the least fuel?
• What is the Toyota HiLux’s towing capacity?
• How long is the warranty and what are the Toyota HiLux’s servicing costs?
• Which version of the Toyota HiLux does Wheels recommend?
• What are the Toyota HiLux’s key rivals?

Pricing

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What body styles are available for the HiLux?

The HiLux is available in single-, extra- and double-cab body styles, with the choice of 4x2 or 4x4.

The range begins with the entry-level WorkMate and tops out with the Rogue – a GR Sport is incoming – with the SR and SR5 variants sitting in between. Single-cabs can seat two people, extra-cabs four people and double-cabs five people.

A trio of powertrains are available across the HiLux range, with entry-level 4x2 WorkMate models equipped with a 2.7-litre petrol engine capable of 122kW and 245Nm and mated to either a five-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission.

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WorkMate Hi-Rider 4x2 models and WorkMate 4x4 models have a 110kW/400Nm 2.4-litre turbo-diesel, while the most powerful engine in the line-up – a 2.8-litre turbo-diesel good for 150kW (manual variants are rated to 420Nm while automatics get the full 500Nm) – powers the rest of the range including all of the upper-spec models.

Both turbo-diesel engines can be matched with either a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission.

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What features are standard in the WorkMate?

The features listed below are standard in the entry-level model and will appear in higher-grade models, unless replaced by more premium equivalent features.

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What key features do I get if I spend more?

The entry-level WorkMate models are rather stripped-back for work and trade duties, so you’ll need to step up to an SR for a more all-round vehicle.

At SR level, there's more speakers, premium flooring, a drive mode selector and a rear diff lock on 4x4 versions.

Swipe the credit card for a bit more, and the SR5 introduces a long list of extra kit as standard including LED headlights with auto-levelling and DRLs, extra safety functions such as blind-spot monitoring, and a more premium interior befitting the price rise.

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Paying more again for an SR5 gets you those features plus:

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The SR5+ then adds:

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The range-topping Rogue gets:

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How safe is the Toyota HiLux?

All Toyota HiLux models built from 2019 onward have been awarded a five-star ANCAP safety rating.

The entire range is equipped with the full suite of Toyota Safety Sense technologies as standard, which consists of auto emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection, high-speed adaptive cruise control, and lane departure warning with steering assist. Seven SRS airbags are standard across the range.

Hill descent control features on all SR5 4x4 models and automatic SR 4x4 dual-cabs. Front and rear parking sensors are also fitted to SR5 double- and extra-cab pick-up models.

The SR5 also adds blind-spot monitoring, a panoramic view monitor and rear cross-traffic alert.

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How comfortable and practical is the Toyota HiLux?

WorkMate variants are designed for work duties, so are more practical than comfortable, with vinyl flooring, standard fabric on the pews and basic bucket seats.

However, they still get modern tech in the form of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Step up to the SR and more comfort features are introduced including higher-grade front bucket seats with a more premium fabric upholstery. The SR5 then adds front and rear parking sensors, privacy glass, a premium shifter and steering wheel, and carpet flooring.

The Rogue’s heated leather seats and nine-speaker JBL sound system are both nice additions.

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The HiLux nails storage, with cavernous pockets and well-sized cup holders throughout the cabin.

The rear of double-cab models is also extremely kid-friendly. However, the rear seat in double-cabs is pretty standard fare for this size of ute, but it can be a bit tight back there.

With a 3500kg towing capacity, payload capacities nearing one tonne, and plenty of aftermarket support, 4x4 models are a versatile option for work, play and touring the country.

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How big is the tray/tub?

The best-selling HiLux SR5 has four tie-down points in the tub, 1110mm between the wheel arches and a decent payload capacity edging a tonne at 995kg.

Dimensions for the HiLux tub range from 1840mm long, 1540mm wide, 1110mm between the wheel arches, and 480mm deep (extra-cab), to 1570mm long, 1645mm wide, 1105mm between wheel arches, and 495mm deep (double-cab).

Load dimensions and payload of all cab-chassis variants (single, extra and double) entirely depend on the tray or service body you opt for.

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I like driving, will I enjoy this car?

It depends on the tarmac. This generation of HiLux has been around since 2015 and its on-road performance feels somewhat outdated, compared to newer vehicles in the segment (cough, Ranger).

Despite regular updates, ride quality can be fairly stiff, and the steering column's limited reach adjustment can cause discomfort.

Deserving of credit is the power and responsiveness of the HiLux's 2.8-litre engine, even though it can be a bit noisy. It's not that there's anything inherently wrong with the way the HiLux rides and drives; it's just that newer utility vehicles have raised the performance standards in this segment.

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In off-road and gravel situations, the HiLux shines.

Equipped with class-leading rear axle articulation and precise electronic traction control (ETC), the vehicle is able to conquer most rough terrains by just relying on the ETC rather than engaging the rear differential lock.

The Rogue variant in particular maintains its load and towing capacities while offering a slightly more comfortable ride due to increased track width, and improved shock and strut geometry. Its updated braking system is also particularly noteworthy, providing ample power and a precise pedal feel.

In standard form, the N80 HiLux remains an exceptional off-road vehicle and is highly supported by the aftermarket industry for those who want even more ability.

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Which Toyota HiLux engine uses the least fuel?

The HiLux is available with three powertrain options: One petrol and two diesels.

The range opens with a 2.7-litre petrol engine capable of 122kW and 245Nm, mated to either a five-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission.

Then there's the 110kW/400Nm 2.4-litre turbo-diesel, and a 2.8-litre turbo-diesel good for 150kW (manual variants are rated to 420Nm while automatics get the full 500Nm).

Both turbo-diesel engines can be matched with either a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission.

According to claimed fuel figures supplied by Toyota, the most fuel-efficient 4x2 variant is the 2.4L manual WorkMate double-cab pick-up, with a claimed fuel use of 6.9L/100km.

The thriftiest 4x4 variant is also the 2.4L WorkMate double-cab pick-up, with the manual drinking a claimed 7.2L/100km.

By comparison, the 2.8L-powered Rogue automatic uses a claimed 8.4L/100km.

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What is the Toyota HiLux’s towing capacity?

The braked towing capacity of the Toyota HiLux varies depending on the model.

WorkMate 4x2 variants have a 2500kg towing capacity, which increases to 2800kg for Hi-Rider models. All 4x4 models have a towing capacity of 3500kg, which is the industry standard.

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How long is the warranty and what are the HiLux’s servicing costs?

The Toyota HiLux comes with a five-year / unlimited-kilometre warranty.

After a complimentary one-month initial inspection, Toyota offers short service intervals at 10,000km or every six months, with three years of capped-price servicing at $260 per interval.

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Which version of the Toyota HiLux does Wheels recommend?

The HiLux may be a bit long in the tooth, but the mid-range SR5 still offers plenty of value.

It has the best balance of cabin design and storage, and it gets the punchy 2.8-litre turbo-diesel with 150kW and 420Nm.

It’s also competent off-road, and there’s an endless list of aftermarket accessories available for it. There’s a reason the HiLux SR5 is a perennial best-seller in Australia, despite being around in its current guise since 2015.

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What are the Toyota HiLux’s key rivals?

• Ford Ranger
• Isuzu D-MAX
• Mazda BT-50
• Volkswagen Amarok
• Nissan Navara
• Mitsubishi Triton

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