Autocar India

Which variant of 2026 Toyota Hilux should you buy?

The Hilux is available in two trims, one engine-gearbox combo and two drive layouts.
3 min read28 Jul '26
Saptarshi MondalSaptarshi Mondal
12 views
Toyota Hilux which variant to buy

Toyota has launched the ninth-generation Hilux in India with prices ranging between Rs 31.99 lakh and Rs 36.69 lakh (ex-showroom). As a pick-up truck, the Toyota Hilux caters to a very niche audience, with the only other alternative in the market being the Isuzu D-Max V-Cross. This latest-gen model brings a contemporary design and a more feature-packed interior, but under the skin, the Hilux has remained largely unchanged from its predecessor. 

The new Toyota Hilux is available in two trims – GX and VX – with a single engine and gearbox combination, but with both 4x2 and 4x4 drive configurations. Here in this article, we are taking a close look at exactly what you get in each trim and which ones worth your money. 

Toyota Hilux engine options, specifications 

Under the hood, both trims of the Hilux feature a 2.8-litre, four-cylinder diesel engine that produces 240hp and 500Nm. A 6-speed torque converter automatic gearbox is standard across the range, but there’s no manual gearbox option like there was on its predecessor. 

Which variant of 2026 Toyota Hilux should you buy?

The base GX trim can be had in either 4x2 or 4x4 drive configurations, while the top VX trim comes solely in 4x4 configuration. Notably, this is the first time Toyota is offering the option of a 4x2 setup on the Hilux in India; the previous model came with 4x4 as standard. 

Toyota Hilux exterior and interior colour options 

Toyota is offering a total of six monotone colour options with the new Hilux, namely Sulphur Metallic, Platinum Pearl White Metallic, Attitude Black, Ash, Emotional Red and Super White – Sulphur Metallic and Attitude Black are only available on the top VX trim. The interior, irrespective of the trim, comes with an all-black finish for a rugged appeal.

Which variant of 2026 Toyota Hilux should you buy?Hilux GX interior pictured here.

Now let’s take a closer look at exactly what features are available in each of the two trims:

Toyota Hilux variant-wise features explained 

GX – 2.8 diesel AT 4x2/4x4 

  • LED headlamps 
  • Integrated side and rear bed steps 
  • Electrically adjustable ORVMs 
  • Rear fog lamps 
  • Tailgate Assisted Rear Deck Door
  • Front and rear height adjustable headrests 
  • 6-way manually adjustable driver’s seat
  • 4-way manually adjustable co-passenger seat
  • 7.0-inch digital driver’s display 
  • 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment 
  • 4-speaker audio system
  • Wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
  • Manual AC 
  • Steering mounted controls 
  • Front seats armrest
  • Tilt and telescopic steering adjust 
  • 7 Airbags 
  • Vehicle stability control 
  • Height adjustable front seat belts 
  • 3-point seatbelt with reminders for all seats 
  • Rear parking camera 
  • Day and Night inside IRVM 
  • Electronic drive control - 2WD/4WD (4x4 variant only) 
  • 4WD with high and low range (4x4 variant only)
  • Electronic differential lock (4x4 variant only)

VX – 2.8 diesel AT 4x4

Features over and above GX

  • LED headlamps with welcome function 
  • LED daytime running lamps 
  • Puddle lamps 
  • Hood ornament 
  • Wheel arch cladding 
  • Front and rear LED fog lamps 
  • LED tail lamps 
  • Auto-fold ORVMs
  • Sharkfin antenna 
  • Soft-touch material on dashboard 
  • Illuminated door scuff plates
  • Larger 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment
  • 8-speaker sound system 
  • Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto 
  • Wireless charger 
  • Drive modes (Eco, Normal and Sport)
  • Keyless entry and go 
  • Cruise control 
  • Rear centre armrest with cupholders 
  • Connected car tech 
  • PM 2.5 Air filter 
  • TPMS
  • 360-degree surround view camera 
  • Hill descent control (4x4 variant only)
  • Multi-terrain select traction control (4x4 variant only)

2026 Toyota Hilux: which variant should you buy?

Between the GX and VX, we’d recommend opting for the fully-loaded VX trim with the 4x4 system as standard. The base GX trim misses out on several convenience features, which particularly stick out at this price point. Moreover, if you are considering buying a Hilux, its best to opt it with the 4x4 system which will allow you to exploit the full breath of potential that this pickup truck offers. The fact that the top trim is rather well priced, costing just Rs 70,000 more than its predecessor, further sweetens the deal. 

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