Toyota Hi lux
Used Car Review

Overview

Looking for a pickup truck that can handle anything you throw at it? The Toyota Hilux might be exactly what you need. This legendary workhorse has built its reputation on unbreakable reliability and serious capability, making it the go-to choice for everyone from tradespeople to adventure seekers. It’s the truck for people who need a vehicle that works as hard as they do.

From its bold, upright stance to its muscular wheel arches, the Hilux looks ready for business. This isn’t just for show though. Under that tough exterior lies genuine capability that sets it apart from lighter commercial vehicles. The latest model brings modern refinement to the classic Hilux formula, with improved ride quality and updated technology. You get a truck that’s comfortable enough for daily driving but tough enough for the most demanding jobs.

The Hilux delivers exactly what you’d expect from Toyota. It’s built to last, capable of towing serious loads, and surprisingly refined on road. While it commands a premium price over some rivals, you’re investing in legendary reliability and strong resale values. It’s a truck that proves you don’t have to choose between capability and dependability. Whether you’re hauling materials to a job site or heading off road for the weekend, the Hilux makes every journey feel manageable.

How Does the Toyota Hi lux Drive?

The Toyota Hilux is engineered for capability rather than speed, and that shows in its powertrain choices. The flagship 2.8-litre diesel engine produces around 204 horsepower and substantial torque, making light work of heavy loads and steep gradients. For 2025, Toyota has introduced a 48V mild hybrid system that smooths out acceleration and reduces fuel consumption slightly. It feels strong and confident whether you’re pulling a trailer or climbing a rocky track.

Where the Hilux truly excels is in its real world ability. The four wheel drive system is robust and dependable, with proper low range gearing for serious off road work. The pickup truck rides higher than most vehicles, giving you excellent visibility and ground clearance. On road, it’s surprisingly refined for such a capable machine. The steering is direct and the ride quality has improved significantly over previous generations. You’ll find it comfortable on long motorway journeys, though it’s clearly optimised for work rather than sporty driving.

Inside the Toyota Hi lux: Comfort & Features

Step inside the Hilux and you’ll find a cabin that’s built for durability first, comfort second. The dashboard is robust and straightforward, with clearly marked controls and a decent sized touchscreen for the infotainment system. Materials are hard wearing rather than luxurious, but everything feels solid and well assembled. The seats are supportive and offer good adjustment, helping you find a comfortable position for long days behind the wheel.

The Double Cab versions offer genuine five seat capability, though the rear bench is better suited to shorter journeys. Road noise is well controlled for a commercial vehicle, and the air conditioning works effectively. Standard equipment includes smartphone integration through Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, plus safety features like automatic emergency braking. Higher specification models add leather trimmed seats and upgraded audio systems. It’s a practical, no nonsense interior that prioritises functionality over flashiness.

The Toyota Hilux stands out in the pickup truck market by delivering exactly what it promises. This is a vehicle built for serious work, with the reliability and capability to handle whatever you can throw at it. The combination of robust engineering, strong towing capacity, and legendary Toyota dependability makes it a compelling choice for both commercial and recreational users.

Nicholas Zapolski Car Expert

Is the Toyota Hi lux Expensive to Run?

As a commercial vehicle, the Hilux benefits from favourable tax treatment for business users, but private buyers face higher running costs than passenger cars. Fuel economy ranges from around 30 to 35 MPG depending on how you drive and what you’re carrying. The 2.8-litre diesel engine is efficient for its size, though you’ll notice fuel consumption increases significantly when towing or driving off road.

Initial purchase prices are substantial, starting from around £35,000 and rising quickly with options and higher trim levels. Insurance costs reflect the vehicle’s commercial nature and higher value. However, Toyota’s legendary reliability helps offset these costs. The Hilux holds its value exceptionally well, making it a sound long term investment. Servicing costs are reasonable for such a capable machine, and Toyota’s network coverage means support is widely available. For those needing commercial vehicle finance, flexible options help spread the initial cost.

Toyota Hi lux Practicality & Boot Space

The Hilux excels in practical capability, which is exactly what you’d expect from Toyota’s flagship pickup truck. The load bay measures over 1.5 metres long and can carry over a tonne of payload, making it ideal for construction materials, equipment, or recreational gear. The tailgate is robust and well engineered, while tie down points are strategically placed for securing loads. Double Cab models offer the flexibility of five seats plus a full size load area.

Storage inside the cabin includes generous door pockets and a decent centre console, though it’s not as car like as some modern pickups. The high driving position gives excellent visibility, particularly useful when reversing with a trailer attached. Compared to other used Toyota vehicles, the Hilux offers unmatched load carrying ability. While fuel costs are higher than passenger cars, the sheer versatility makes it worthwhile for those who regularly need to transport large or heavy items.

The Toyota Hilux remains the benchmark for pickup truck reliability and capability. It combines Toyota’s renowned build quality with serious off road ability and impressive towing capacity in a package that’s surprisingly refined for daily use. While it commands a premium price, you’re investing in a vehicle with exceptional durability and strong resale values.

You choose the Hilux because you need a truck that won’t let you down. Its robust construction, dependable drivetrain, and practical load area make it ideal for both work and adventure. It’s perfectly suited for tradespeople, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone who needs genuine capability without compromise. If you’re looking for a pickup truck that prioritises reliability above all else, the Hilux should top your list, particularly with flexible finance options making ownership more accessible.