The Toyota Hilux pickup truck is finally set to be introduced in the Indian market in January. This validates our previous report from 2020, which stated that Toyota is seriously considering launching the Hilux in India.
- Based on the same platform as Fortuner and Innova
- Shares features list and interior components with Fortuner
- Expected to get 2.4-litre and 2.8-litre diesel engine options
Toyota Hilux India: exterior and interiors
Under the skin, the new Hilux pickup will share the same IMV-2 platform as the Innova Crysta and Fortuner sold in India. However, the Hilux will be considerably longer than both the aforementioned models, as it measures nearly 5.3m in length and has a wheelbase of over 3m (closer in size to something like the Isuzu V-Cross). Additionally, the Hilux for India will also sport a distinct design, with a large hexagonal front grille, flanked by swept-back headlamps with LED daytime running lights. Viewed in profile, its length becomes even more apparent, though the flared wheel arches, body cladding and side step give the pickup truck a rugged look. The rear styling, like most pickup trucks, is quite simple, though the sculpted tail-lights do add some character. For our market, we will get a double-cab version of the Hilux, but it remains to be seen if Toyota will also introduce a single-cab version (like Isuzu) for the commercial vehicle segment.
Toyota is expected to equip the Hilux with several interior components from the locally produced Innova and Fortuner, in order to help save costs. Given that the Hilux is dimensionally similar to the Fortuner, expect it to carry the same dashboard design and seats. The pickup truck is also expected to use an 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The full list of safety features for the India-spec model will be revealed closer to the launch. That said, considering the Thai-spec Hilux secured a 5-star rating in ASEAN NCAP crash tests should give buyers some added peace of mind.
Toyota Hilux India: powertrain
While Toyota is yet to confirm the powertrain options for the Indian market, we expect the Hilux to feature the 150hp, 2.4-litre diesel engine from the Innova and two-wheel drive on the base level variants, and get the Fortuner’s 204hp, 2.8-litre diesel engine with two- or four-wheel drive on the top-spec model. This will help keep the lower variants' price fairly competitive. We will have to wait and see what gearbox options Toyota choses to offer, as both engines are available with manual and automatic.
Toyota Hilux India: expected price and competition
We expect the Toyota Hilux will be priced in the Rs 25 lakh-35 lakh (ex-showroom) bracket, given that a large number of its parts will be shared with the locally produced Innova and Fortuner.
In terms of rivals, the only direct competition for the Hilux will come from the Isuzu Hi-Lander and V-Cross, priced from Rs 18.05 lakh-25.60 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi), which are the only other pickup trucks targeted at the lifestyle buyers.
Are you looking forward to seeing the Toyota Hilux pick-up truck enter our market? Let us know in the comments section below.
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