LOOK: New Toyota Hilux ninth generation revealed
South Africa's best-selling vehicle is getting a major upgrade.
The Toyota Hilux first made its debut on South African roads in 1969.
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Bakkies are as big a part of SA culture as braai, so it's no surprise that it quickly became a best-seller.
It has been the vehicle of choice for thousands of South Africans because of its reliability and dependability.
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In celebration of its legacy, Toyota South Africa has even released special-edition Hilux models over the years.
Toyota's latest Hilux announcement is just as exciting.
According to BusinessTech, this was the most anticipated motoring announcement of the year as the company unveiled the next-generation Hilux in Thailand.
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The ninth-generation Hilux has arrived, a full decade after the most recent model and the global rollout is set for 2026.
The new model will feature a broad range of configurations, with the most significant news being the introduction of a battery-electric vehicle (BEV) version.
For those wanting to keep it old-school, don't worry, there will still be updated internal combustion engine (ICE) models available.
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Toyota South Africa is yet to confirm the exact lineup and specifications that will be available in SA, as engine types and availability will differ depending on the country.
The Hilux's boxy shape has become a core part of its identity, and the exterior has undergone minimal changes, although it has been noticeably refreshed.
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Hilux exterior updates
- Models with traditional engines feature a redesigned honeycomb grill.
- Slim LED headlights and LED daytime running lights run across the upper front section.
- Black horizontal bar replaces the traditional Toyota badge with “Toyota” lettering.
Hilux interior updates
- Introduction of electric power steering, a first for the Hilux, improves steering precision, making low-speed manoeuvring easier, and reduces steering kickback when driving over rough terrain.
- Toyota aligned the new Hilux with the latest Prado SUV.
- A chunky three-spoke multifunction steering wheel.
- Push-button start.
- Layered dashboard with an octagonal centre frame: houses the air vents, hazard function, and physical controls for the climate system.
- A slanted panel featuring a USB Type-C port, controls for traction and hill descent management, and a rotary driving mode selector.
- The centre console features a gear lever (resembling the new Prado), an electronic parking brake switch, and buttons for heated seats.
- Leather seats with eight-way electric adjustment
- Blind spot monitoring
- Driver attention monitoring
- Lane-keep assist
- Automatic emergency braking.
South African specification levels, drivetrain selection, and pricing will be confirmed closer to its arrival.
Have a look at the new Hilux below:
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Image: Toyota