Historical note: This post first appeared on September 16, 2016. Toyota had already unveiled the eighth-generation Hilux in Bangkok and begun sales in Thailand on May 21, 2015, so this page is best read as a period look at that generation—not as a forecast of a separate, universally specified “2018 Hilux.” Toyota offered different cab, trim, engine and transmission combinations by market.
Toyota’s 2015 global launch release used a Double Cab 4WD with a 2.8-liter 1GD diesel and six-speed automatic as an example specification, not the sole worldwide configuration. Toyota’s GD-engine technical release also documented the 2.4-liter 2GD diesel, while UK launch material from March 2016 listed Single, Extra and Double Cab versions. Any equipment list on this page therefore needs to be read in its original market context.
Exterior and Interior
The updates to the 2018 Toyota Hilux‘s exterior come in significant details such as updated Rica five-spoke wheel in three color options, side-step bars, a roll bar, plus new front guard, aluminum-finished scuff plates at the doors, chrome door handles and chrome surrounds for the hood-mounted air intake and rear taillights.
Besides that, the looks are pretty much the old Hilux with durable sheet metal and rugged lines, plus the trademark tall ground clearance which adds to the pickup’s aggressive stance as well as off-road capabilities.
This no-bells-and-whistles push for functionality in design is especially evident in the cabin of the new Hilux, especially the dashboard that is sleek and streamlined. The shiny aluminum accents lighten up the otherwise dark cabin, and add to the already strong styling. The steering wheel carries control buttons and the gauge cluster is positioned right behind the wheel and can be read at a glance.
Additional style comes in the shape of leather seats that are standard and are offered with four choices in color. The infotainment has haptic feedback buttons though it also features knobs for temperature and fan speed. Also, if you choose a four-wheel drive model you get an electronic rotary switch. Plus, Toyota has made available an electronic locking rear differential.
Powertrain: period-correct context
For the eighth-generation launch period, Toyota listed the 1GD-FTV 2.8-liter diesel at 130 kW (177 PS) and up to 450 Nm, and the 2GD-FTV 2.4-liter diesel at 110 kW (150 PS) and up to 400 Nm. Toyota expressly noted that specifications varied by market. In the UK, the 2016 Hilux used the 2.4-liter D-4D with six-speed manual or automatic transmissions, depending on drivetrain and body configuration; the older 2.5/3.0-liter and five-speed figures should not be treated as universal 2018 specifications.
Fuel economy, emissions, towing and payload figures differ by market, body style, drivetrain and test cycle. An “EPA” highway figure cannot be combined with a European-cycle claim. The correct reference is the official local brochure or certification label for the exact configuration.
What was known when this article was published
By September 2016, the eighth-generation Hilux was already on sale in multiple markets. Toyota’s UK release was dated March 1, 2016, and Toyota España announced Spanish availability on June 21, 2016. A single US-dollar “launch price” would be misleading because grades, taxes and currencies were market-specific; archived official local releases are the appropriate reference.
