The iconic pickup truck still rules the segment of small pickup trucks. However, the market is getting tougher and tougher every year, so even absolute leaders need upgrades. Therefore, the 2021 Toyota Hilux brings a log of changes, the second update in this production cycle. With all of them, the new version won’t just look better. It will also be more capable.
This update brings novelties in various aspects. Of course, there is a new styling, which brings a couple of subtle but very effective details. Interior changes are notable too. However, probably the most important change is that under the hood, as the familiar 2.8-liter turbodiesel comes more powerful than ever. We expect to see the new model in the last quarter of the year, probably in October.
2021 Toyota Hilux Gets More Powerful Engine
Without any doubt, the biggest change for the 2021 Toyota Hilux is a new engine. It’s not exactly a new engine, but rather an upgraded version of the well-known 2.8-liter turbodiesel. While the outgoing model is good for about 174 horsepower and 330 pound-feet of torque, the new version puts out around 201 horsepower and pretty impressive 370 pound-feet of torque. With such numbers, the super-tough truck will be able to hit sixty in just ten seconds. More importantly, the working capabilities have improved, so even 4X4 models will be able to tow 3.5 tons with ease, while the max payload capacity remains the same and goes over one ton. Those are the figures for a version with automatic transmission. If you prefer manual, count on less torque.
These improvements in numbers are great but not the only ones. Not only that you may count on more power, but the engine has been revised in that way that max power and torque are now available at much lower revs. This especially refers to the max torque, which is now available already at 1600 RPMs.
For a long time, many reports were suggesting a 2021 Toyota Hilux V6 diesel, but this new version seems satisfying enough. On the other side, the smaller 2.4-liter unit remains pretty much the same and puts out around 150 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque.
Some sources were also suggesting the 2021 Toyota Hilux hybrid but we are pretty sure the electrified version won’t happen before the arrival of the next generation.
2021 Toyota Hilux Design
Besides the new engine, this update also brings notable exterior changes. While the overall design and size are the same, this facelift brings a plethora of aesthetical changes. This particularly refers to the front end, though you can also notice new LED taillights at the rear end. Back to the front end, changes are subtle but very effective. There is a new grille, as well as a new bumper and fog lights. The new front fascia also covers a little bit of headlights, so they also look a little bit more attractive.
Interior
On the inside, the 2021 Toyota Hilux brings a couple of changes as well. Once again, they are pretty subtle but you can easily notice novelties at the center stack, particularly in terms of the new 8-inch touchscreen. It’s bigger and also comes with new, faster software. Another thing we like is that many physical buttons have remained.
On the other side, the overall layout remains the same. That’s not a bad thing at all, considering that Hilux features one of the nicest cabins in the class. It looks very car-like, while the overall quality is at a pretty high level.
2021 Toyota Hilux Release Date, Price and USA Version
We expect to see the 2021 Toyota Hilux in the last quarter of the year. Details about the 2021 Toyota Hilux price are yet to be announced. Key competitors are models like Ford Ranger, Nissan Navara, Isuzu D-Max etc.
Some sources were also suggesting a possible version for the U.S. market. However, that definitely won’t happen, especially if we consider that Tacoma rules the segment in North America. The 2021 Toyota Hilux USA was nothing more than a rumor.
