2026 Toyota Hilux Travo released, the brand-new exterior and interior are highly anticipated

[PCauto] Toyota has officially taken the wraps off the ninth-generation 2026 Hilux Travo at its Asia headquarters.

This highly anticipated pickup truck introduces a fully electric Hilux Travo-e version, while the diesel version remains available.

The most extensive revisions are focused on the exterior styling and interior cabin, both areas receiving substantial upgrades.

What are the innovative changes in the exterior design of the 2026 Toyota Hilux?

The 9th generation Hilux features the "Cyber Sumo" design language, giving it a boxier and more rugged appearance overall.

Dominating the front fascia is an ultra-wide rectangular grille, flanked by slim LED headlights on both sides, which contribute to a high-tech and commanding presence.

The rear has new dynamic LED taillights, a redesigned rear bumper, and an optimized tailgate handle, enhancing both its appearance and practicality.

One interesting point is that the new car has added a rear side step for the first time. This particular design cue is in fact borrowed from the Ford Ranger. With it, loading and unloading items from the cargo bed becomes much easier.

High-spec models like the 4TREX and Prerunner Overland versions come with more equipment. They feature 18-inch alloy wheels, an electric tailgate assist system, and Overland-exclusive packages. The package includes a more robust front skid plate, mesh-style bumper corner decorations, and an integrated rear sport bar, bolstering its off-road credentials.

What are the changes in the interior and technology configuration of the 2026 Toyota Hilux?

The interior of the new generation Hilux has undergone substantial changes. Step inside, and the cabin evokes a sensation reminiscent of the Land Cruiser. In the center of the horizontally extended dashboard, there's a built-in 12.3-inch touchscreen, and in front of it, there's an equally sized fully digital instrument panel with a very clear display.

The center console and dashboard have been completely redesigned, with many hexagonal elements added, along with stitching patterns, giving the interior a modern overall feel.

The air conditioners vary depending on the configuration; some have manual knobs while others have digital controls. Practical features like electronic parking brake, wireless charging pad, and multiple USB ports are all equipped.

The air conditioners vary depending on the configuration; some have manual knobs while others have digital controls. Practical features such as an electronic parking brake, a wireless charging pad, and multiple USB ports are all present.

What are the upgrades to the 2026 Toyota Hilux Travo powertrain?

On the powertrain front, the new-generation Hilux Travo introduces an all-electric variant.

The diesel version is equipped with a 2.8-liter 1GD-FTV turbocharged engine, paired with a 6-speed manual or automatic transmission. For the automatic version, the official figures are 204Ps and 500N·m of torque. For the manual version, the torque is slightly reduced to 420N·m.

What’s even more noteworthy is that Toyota has introduced a fully electric version of the Hilux this time, called the Travo-e. It uses a dual-motor layout in the front and rear, delivering a combined output of 196 horsepower.

The battery is a 59.2kWh lithium battery pack, which can run for 300 kilometers or more based on the NEDC standard. In terms of charging, it supports a maximum of 125 kW DC fast charging and 11 kW AC slow charging.

In addition, all models feature a technology called "Dynamic Cloud" for chassis strengthening. This primarily entails an increased number of welding points, the use of hydraulic engine mounts, and new shock absorbers, which are said to improve body rigidity and driving comfort.

How is the performance and practicality of the electric version Hilux Travo-e?

As the first all-electric member of the Hilux family, the Travo-e achieves zero emissions while maintaining the practicality of a pickup truck.

Its dual-motor all-wheel-drive system, working in concert with a De Dion rear axle setup, ensures 500mm of suspension travel and a 700mm wading depth. If you need to tow something, it can pull 1.6 tons.

Although the 59.2kWh battery capacity is not particularly large compared to similar vehicles, the optimized electronic control system ensures that it provides enough range for daily use. The charging port is located on the front fender and supports fast charging, allowing most of the battery to recharge in just 30 minutes.

It is worth mentioning that the battery pack is covered with a protective layer called “Diamond Shield,” which helps shield the battery from damage caused by stone strikes or impacts with obstacles, continuing Hilux's reputation for durability.

What are the improvements in safety and technology features in the new generation Hilux?

The new generation Hilux comes standard with Toyota's latest Toyota Safety Sense intelligent safety system across the entire lineup. It includes features such as blind-spot monitoring, panoramic view imaging, parking assist with automatic braking, and rear cross-traffic alert.

A new Multi-Terrain Select system has been added, offering five modes: dirt, sand, mud, rocks, and deep snow. When coupled with a 360-degree panoramic monitoring system, it inspires greater confidence when driving off-road.

Four-wheel drive models still come standard with a rear differential lock. The electric power steering system has also been upgraded, laying a hardware foundation for future implementation of L2-level assisted driving.

These features together make the new Hilux significantly stronger in terms of safety and technological sophistication compared to the older model.

What are the advantages of the new Hilux compared to the previous model?

Compared to the 8th generation, the 9th generation Hilux shows marked improvements in exterior design, interior quality, technology features, and powertrain options.

The "Cyber Sumo" design language gives the new car a more impactful appearance. The dual 12.3-inch screens and modernized cabin completely transforming the previous utilitarian image.

The addition of the pure electric version not only responds to environmental trends but also attracts a wider range of users.

On the mechanical side, the application of "Dynamic Cloud" technology and the multi-terrain system allows the ninth-generation Hilux to strike a better balance between road comfort and off-road capability.

The classic IMV chassis has been retained, but with detailed optimization, the vehicle's driving refinement and seating comfort feel elevated to a higher level.

What is the price of the 9th generation Hilux Travo series?

Toyota has set highly competitive prices for the new Hilux in Thailand.

In the Double Cab models

Overland Plus AT

Four-wheel drive 4TREXPriced at approximately 175,600 MYR

Two-wheel drive PRERUNNERPriced at approximately 151,200 MYR

Overland AT

Four-wheel drive 4TREXPriced at approximately 166,100 MYR

Two-wheel drive PRERUNNERPriced at approximately 141,700 MYR

2.8 Premium AT

Two-wheel drive PRERUNNER Priced at approximately 128,400 MYR

2.8 Premium MT

Four-wheel drive 4TREXPriced at approximately 140,100 MYR

Two-wheel drive PRERUNNERPrice about 122,000 MYR

2.8 Smart AT

Two-wheel drive PRERUNNERPrice about 121,500 MYR

2.8 Smart MT

Two-wheel drive PRERUNNERPrice about 115,000 MYR

For Smart Cab models:

2.8 Premium AT

Four-wheel drive 4TREXPrice about 132,300 MYR

Two-wheel drive PRERUNNERPrice about 116,900 MYR

2.8 Premium MT

Four-wheel drive 4TREXPrice about 126,500 MYR

Two-wheel drive PRERUNNERPrice about 110,400 MYR

2.8 Smart AT

Two-wheel drive PRERUNNERPrice around 107,900 MYR

2.8 Smart MT

Two-wheel drive PRERUNNERPrice around 101,400 MYR

Standard Cab model for the commercial market

2.8 AT

Four-wheel drive 4TREXPrice around 106,200 MYR

2.8 MT

Four-wheel drive 4TREXPrice around 99,500 MYR

HILUX TRAVO-e DOUBLE CAB

Four-wheel drive 4TREXPrice around 191,600 MYR

Wait for the new Hilux or buy the current model?

If you're in the market for a Hilux, the comprehensive nature of the ninth-generation's upgrades makes it decidedly worth the wait. Although the current model may still have some advantages in terms of reliability and price, the changes in luxury design of the exterior and interior, technological features, and powertrain options in the new model are truly significant.

Especially if you value fashion design, technological experience, or eco-friendly travel, the pure electric Travo-e version is indeed a unique choice.