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NZ-bound Hilux models detailed
Richard Bosselman
November 12, 2025
Heavy emphasis on four-wheel-drive but 48 volt hybrid only goes to half the range, and manuals miss out on some kit.
FOUR model grades – SR, SR5, SR5 Limited and Adventure - across 12 choices, in single, extra and double cab configurations, all with a six-speed automatic, half with 48 volt and all but one in four-wheel-drive.
Pricing? From $49,990 for a rear-drive SR double cab wellside up to $63,990 for an Adventure, in the same body configuration, but with four-wheel-drive. And, yes, there are increases.
Nothwithstanding there are quite a few changes to the line-up, where like-for-like comparison (old line-up vs new line-up) exists, the average price increase is $2437 (ranging from $1500-$3500).
That in a nutshell is the New Zealand-bound model range of the ninth generation Hilux, revealed internationally two days ago.
Information shared by the Palmerston North-based market leader identifies the models as 2025 fare, even though it won’t be here until early 2026, because production has already begun.
As previously said, the incoming fare is patently fresh - the ‘cyber sumo’ styling is a new direction - but just as obviously familiar; more a case of ‘heavily revised’ than ‘new’, a situation which has raised significant on-line comment, much from fans wondering why it was more extensively altered.
Fair call? The incoming ute is based on the same platform, has the same turbodiesel engines with unchanged outputs and the same transmissions as the current showroom offer, set to retire after 10 years of service. It delivers identical towing, tray size and capacity. The suspension design carries over, though its retuned.
The cabin brings a new digital instrument cluster (a 7.0-inch screen at base, a 12.3-inch screen on SR5 and above) and a new 12.3-inch central touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, wireless as well as wired.
There are also new seats front and rear, a new dash design to improve visibility, and a new centre console configuration, which is now taller and – the brand says – more comfortable.
Hilux retains physical buttons with a climate control panel, and multimedia, audio and driver assistance zones on the steering wheel.
New safety features within the Toyota Safety Sense package include a Pre-Collision System with motorcycle detection and an intersection collision avoidance support.
The SR features 17-inch steel wheels, silver painted lower front bumper, side mirrors and a bonnet moulding, locking rear tailgate (excluding cab chassis), side steps and four exterior colour choices.
In extra and double cab wellside it has high-grade fabric upholstery, leather-accented shift knob and steering wheel, rear-seat air conditioning vent, smart entry and start, wireless smartphone charger, eight-speaker audio system, lifting the comfort and convenience amenity.
The four-wheel drive automatic variants add a locking rear differential, and for some, the Multi Terrain Select and Downhill Assist Control.
An SR 4x4 double-cab automatic grade is also available with the 48-volt hybrid system that implements a 8.4kW/65Nm electric motor generator. Toyota cites improved driving feel during take-off and a reduction in fuel consumption, but ives no detail of the extent of this.
The next grade is the 4WD double-cab-only SR5 and a higher SR5 Limited grade, which introduces a new comfort-oriented rear leaf suspension tune “designed to provide a more compliant and supple ride.” SR5 customers can choose from a manual non-hybrid or automatic transmission hybrid powertrains.
The SR5 adds 18-inch gloss black and bright machined-finished alloy wheels with larger front disc brakes and ventilated rear disc brakes, high-grade auto-levelling LED headlights, LED taillights and rear fog lamp, privacy glass and auto retracting and heated exterior mirrors.
Cabin treatments include front seat heating, dual zone air conditioning, and a heated steering wheel. The driver also benefits from a 12.3-inch multi-information display and a multi terrain monitor, except in the manual and Cab Chassis variants. The manuals also do with downhill assist control and multi terrain select.
The SR5 Limited adds black leather accented seats, powered driver seat adjustability and a JBL nine-speaker premium audio system (excluding manual transmission).
The Adventure takes all the features of the SR5 Limited and upgrades with matte black alloy wheels, ‘mineral’ leather interior and a unique front bumper. It has two exclusive colours.