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If one model is the epitome of Toyota durability, it's the Hilux pick-up. The truck has been around since 1968, and the eighth generation introduced in 2016 offers the most car-like experience that this practical workhorse has ever delivered. There are still utilitarian models, but top-spec versions can match family SUVs for space and quality.
The pick-up truck class has seen contenders come and go, but the Hilux has been a staple, alongside the Ford Ranger – Europe's best-selling pick-up – and Isuzu D-Max, while the SsangYong Musso is also offered. Rivals that are no longer sold new but worth considering used include the Nissan Navara, Mitsubishi L200 and Mercedes X-Class, while the Volkswagen Amarok Mk1 went off sale in 2020, with the Mk2 arriving in 2023.
What's it like?
The Toyota Hilux comes in single cab, extended cab and five-seat, four-door double cab guises, with the former geared towards work (so they only come in more basic trims), and the latter being an alternative to an SUV. There's a rare chassis cab variant, too.
At launch, just one 150hp 2.4-litre four-cylinder diesel was offered, while six-speed manuals outnumber six-speed automatic gearboxes by around three to one on the used market. Part-time four-wheel drive is standard, with selectable 4x4 modes and low-range gears.
A facelift in 2018 saw the addition of a new front end for top-spec Invincible X models, and the whole range was updated in 2020 with a redesign and the introduction of a 204hp 2.8-litre four-cylinder diesel at the top of the range. In 2022, the GR Sport arrived with a racier look, but no more power.
Which model to go for?
The Hilux you choose really depends on what you want it for. Active spec is the basic trim, with steel wheels and black plastic bumpers, and is the working vehicle. If you want a bit more luxury, then SR5 trim has useful equipment such as Bluetooth, a reversing camera, central locking, air conditioning, a multifunction steering wheel and immobiliser.
High-spec Invincible models are a good choice for anybody that also uses their work vehicle for family duties. You get niceties such as heated, electrically adjustable leather seats, climate control, privacy glass and navigation. Invincible X models add matt-black exterior trim.
Invincible and Invincible X models are the only versions of the Hilux available with the 2.8-litre diesel (aside from the newer GR Sport), but the 2.4-litre is still a decent choice. Both offer payloads of more than one tonne and 3.5-tonne towing weights.
Does anything go wrong?
Recalls have been issued relating to the brake piston, driver's airbag, front bumper, main wiring harness and seat covers that can affect side airbag deployment, but otherwise the Hilux should be a solid choice. It's worth noting that the Hilux qualifies for Toyota's Relax extended warranty cover, so if you get it serviced at a Toyota dealer and it's less than 10 years old - and covered less than 185,000km - you'll receive 12 months or 15,000km of warranty cover.