2025 Toyota Hilux Hybrid 48V

Introduction

The 2025 Toyota Hilux Hybrid 48V is a significant update in the Hilux range. It introduces a mild hybrid system built around the existing 2.8-litre turbo-diesel engine, enhancing efficiency, refinement and low-speed drivability without sacrificing the durability, towing capacity and off-road ability that Hilux is known for.

Whether you're using it for work, towing, or exploring rough terrain, the hybrid 48V aims to bring real benefits while maintaining what people love about the Hilux.

What Is the “48V Mild Hybrid” in the Hilux?

The system adds a motor-generator driven via a belt, plus a 48-volt lithium battery and a DC/DC converter. newsroom.toyota.eu+2DiscoverAuto+2
This motor generator assists the diesel engine with up to ~ 12 kW (≈ 16 PS) of extra power and ~65 Nm of torque, especially during starts and low revs. CARS24+2newsroom.toyota.eu+2
It helps improve stop-start behavior, smoother restarts, regenerative braking, lower idling speed (from about 720 rpm to 600 rpm) — all contributing to small but meaningful gains in fuel economy and lower emissions. newsroom.toyota.eu+2Auto Express+2

Key Specifications & Performance

Specification	Detail
Engine	2.8-litre DOHC 16-valve turbo-diesel; power ~ 204 DIN hp (150 kW) at 3,400 rpm; torque ~ 500 Nm between ~1,600-2,800 rpm. newsroom.toyota.eu+2autojakal.com+2
Hybrid System Output	Additional ~ 12 kW / 16 PS and ~ 65 Nm from the motor-generator. CARS24+1
Drivetrain / Body Style	Double Cab, 4WD; retaining full Hilux capability. newsroom.toyota.eu+1
Towing Capacity	Up to 3,500 kg braked trailer towing. Toyota NZ+2newsroom.toyota.eu+2
Payload	Around 1,000 kg payload. newsroom.toyota.eu+1
Dimensions	Length ~ 5,325 mm, width ~ 1,900 mm, height ~ 1,815 mm (these figures can vary with trim). Toyota XK+1
Ground Clearance	Approximately 310 mm. newsroom.toyota.eu+1
Approach / Departure Angles	About 29° approach; 26° departure. newsroom.toyota.eu+1

Efficiency, Emissions & Driving Experience

The mild hybrid system is claimed to improve fuel efficiency by up to ~5% compared to the non-hybrid 2.8-litre diesel model. newsroom.toyota.eu+2CARS24+2
Quieter restarts and smoother idle/stop-start behavior thanks to the motor generator and battery. newsroom.toyota.eu+1
Regenerative braking helps recover energy that would otherwise be lost during deceleration. newsroom.toyota.eu+1
No compromise on capability: the hybrid version retains water-wading capability (about 700 mm), payload, and towing performance. Toyota XK+1

Features & Off-Road Enhancements

Multi-Terrain Select (MTS): First time Hilux gets this for adapting drive control, traction, braking to terrain modes such as Sand, Mud, Rock, Dirt, Deep Snow, and Auto. CARS24+1
48V components (battery, DC-DC converter) are waterproofed and placed under rear seats to protect them and keep cabin space intact. newsroom.toyota.eu+1
Sturdier construction for the motor generator’s belt, improved belt tensioner and belt material for durability. newsroom.toyota.eu+1

Exterior & Interior Design

Rugged Hilux styling is preserved: bold grille, muscular bumpers, double cab body setup. newsroom.toyota.eu+1
Bed length about 1,555 mm in Double Cab models. newsroom.toyota.eu+1
Interior features include modern infotainment, safety tech (Toyota Safety Sense), Four-wheel drive capability, etc. newsroom.toyota.eu+1

Pros & Considerations

Pros:

Better fuel economy and emissions vs non-hybrid diesel Hilux, especially in stop-start and urban settings.
Same rugged capability: towing, payload, ground clearance, off-road performance largely unchanged.
Improved refinement: quieter idling, smoother stop-start, more responsive from low speed.
Retains famous Hilux reliability and durability.

Things to Consider:

Fuel savings are modest (mild hybrid), not the same as full hybrid or plug-in.
Additional system complexity: motor-generator, battery, belt drive, etc.—though Toyota seems to have engineered durability.
Likely higher purchase cost vs non-hybrid counterpart.
In extreme conditions or heavy loads, performance may still primarily depend on diesel engine (hybrid assist has limited extra power).

Market & Availability (Including NZ)

The Hilux Hybrid 48V is confirmed for New Zealand, launched in SR, SR5, and SR5 Cruiser grades. Toyota NZ+1
It is marketed as not compromising towing/payload: 3,500 kg towing is still achievable. Toyota NZ+1