2026 Toyota HiLux First Drive in AUS 🚗

This is a preview drive of 2026 Toyota HiLux pre production vehicle. A full road test will follow. On bitumen the steering now uses electric assist and feels more consistent than before. Ride quality is smoother, with better shock control over broken surfaces. In the mud and on hill climbs the traction control remains the star. It drags the ute forward without drama if you use steady throttle. The improvements are real, although they are incremental rather than transformative.

The cabin is the clearest upgrade. You get a larger touchscreen, a digital instrument cluster, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Toyota Connected Services, and actual buttons for core functions. Towing moves to 3.5 tonnes braked across the range, and select automatic grades add a 48 V mild hybrid system to the familiar 2.8 litre turbo diesel. Daily use should be easier and tech finally matches what buyers expect in 2026.

🚗 Range notes:

-- 2.4-litre diesel and 2.7-litre petrol dropped.
-- Rogue returns on narrow track. Rugged X sits at the top.
-- Battery electric HiLux due for fleets later. Fuel-cell project further out.
-- Buying questions we answer
-- Is the 2026 HiLux more capable off road than the last one.
-- How the steering and suspension tune feel on bitumen.
-- Whether the 48 V system changes response or efficiency.
-- Interior practicality, storage and tech for daily use.

If you want the simple take. Better steering feel, calmer ride, stronger tech, 3.5 t tow, and mild hybrid assistance on some grades. Same core platform, same tight rear seat, same tray limits. More capable in places, still familiar in many others.

Subscribe for the latest advice, reviews and compar
What is new:



Price, specs and timing for Australia.
Subscribe for the latest advice, reviews and comparison tests 👍
https://www.youtube.com/user/carsaleschannel?sub_confirmation=1

STAY UP TO DATE AND CONNECT WITH US
https://www.carsales.com.au/
https://www.facebook.com/carsales.com.au
https://www.instagram.com/carsalescomau/
https://www.tiktok.com/@carsalescomau

carsales. Buy it. Sell it. Love it.®

For over 25 years, carsales has been Australia’s go-to place for buying and selling vehicles - connecting people across the country with confidence and ease.

So for expert reviews, comparison tests helpful advice and everything cars, Like and Subscribe to the official carsales YouTube channel today. https://www.youtube.com/user/carsaleschannel?sub_confirmation=1 #carsaleschannel

#carsales #toyotahilux #hilux2025 #carreview #4x4australia #offroad #hiluxhybrid