5 Things we love about Toyota’s new 48V Hilux

Toyota is a global forerunner in new energy vehicles, working on no fewer than 6 different types of propulsion for the automotive sector. The latest model range to receive a wave of the NEV wand is Toyota’s legendary Hilux.

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Hybrid Hilux

Thats right! Toyota has finally released a hybrid version of the Hilux. Exclusive to select 4×2 and 4×4 double-cab Legend and Raider grades as well as Fortuner, the 48V technology is a game-changer. It incorporates a motor generator, 48-volt battery, and DC/DC converter into the reliable 2.8-litre GD-6 turbo-diesel four-cylinder powertrain and six-speed automatic transmission. This not only enhances fuel economy and powertrain smoothness but also elevates the vehicle’s off-road capabilities.

Related: Toyota Hilux Raider 48V (2024) First Drive Review

Toyota believes that in order to significantly reduce carbon emissions, it should offer different powertrains – including hydrogen internal combustion engine vehicles (HICEV), fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEV), plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEV), hybrid electric vehicles (HEV) and even conventional internal combustion engines (ICE) powered by alternative fuels. These are the top five things we absolutely love about the new 48v Hilux.

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Mild Hybrid System (MHEV)

The new Hilux features a mild-hybrid system (MHEV), which means you never need to worry about plugging it in. Unlike the parallel-series (aka self-charging) hybrids with larger batteries, the MHEV system keeps the weight down while still offering a variety of benefits. The belt-driven charging system sends power to a 48v battery stored under the rear seat area, which powers the start/stop system and engine low-speed maneuvers.

Refreshed looks

The Hilux exterior has also been refreshed with a redesigned front bumper featuring a matte-black honeycomb grille that underscores its tough demeanour. The black outside mirrors are standard on the 2.8 Raider models, while the colour-coded door handles are standard on the 2.4 Raider model. At the rear, the bumper and tailgate handle are now black, which also suits its rugged personality better.

Accessories

Toyota has recently partnered with some of SA’s most prominent manufacturers of outdoor and off-road equipment such as Ironman 4×4, 4×4 Megaworld, Front Runner, IVXIVBUSHINDABA, and Thule. Should you opt to have any of these fitted to your Hilux, you can include it with your car finance. A full range of Toyota-approved lifestyle accessories – such as roof racks, cross bars, rooftop tents, roof boxes, bike carriers, fridges, recovery boards, solar panels, and more will be available..

Fuel Economy

The Japanese automaker says there are several reasons to embrace the 48V models: Better fuel efficiency, a nice little boost of power and better throttle response, smoother acceleration and better braking ability, and reduced engine load. When charged, the lithium battery is good for an additional 12kW and 65 Nm. 

Toyota claims a fuel-consumption figure of 7.4 litres per 100 km in the rear-wheel-drive 48V double cab models, and a range of 1080 km (when you don’t have heavy accessories fitted!).  In the 4×4 double cab 48V models, the claimed average consumption is slightly higher at 8 litres per 100 km.

Africa tough

The engine system has been tuned to adapt to the hybrid system, which in turn, aids the Hilux offroad, and is robust enough to withstand whatever the roughest South African driver can throw at it. The power generated by the motor is said to also result in smoother acceleration on challenging surfaces and during hill descents.