The 2026 Toyota HiLux is coming—and it’s still going to sell like hotcakes. But before you sign on the dotted line, pause. Australia’s favourite ute has been refreshed, not reinvented. Under the sharper styling and new screens lies a decade-old platform, the same engine, and compromises that rivals have already solved.
This isn’t a hate piece. It’s a reality check. Based on Paul Maric’s first-look transcript, official specs, and market data, here are the top 5 reasons to skip the 2026 HiLux—and look at the Ford Ranger, Isuzu D-Max, GWM Cannon, or even the upcoming Mahindra Pik-Up instead.
Let’s be brutally honest.
Reason #1: It’s a Facelift, Not a New Generation – You’re Paying Premium for Old Bones
Toyota calls it the “next generation.” The truth? It’s a heavy facelift on a 10-year-old platform.
The chassis rails, wheelbase, core structure—all carryover. Toyota didn’t grow the cabin, didn’t widen the track, didn’t re-engineer the suspension geometry. They just slapped on new sheet metal, taller bumpers, and called it “new.”
Compare that to:
- Ford Ranger (2022+): All-new TNGA-F-based platform, 50mm longer wheelbase, 50mm wider track.
- Isuzu D-Max (2021+): Completely new frame, 30mm longer wheelbase, improved NVH.
- GWM Cannon (2024+): Modern ladder frame with independent front suspension.
You’re paying ₹72,000–₹80,000 AUD (~₹39–43 lakh INR) for a Rogue or Rugged X that’s fundamentally the same ute your mate bought in 2016.
Paul Maric said it best: “It feels more like a facelift than a new generation car.”
Verdict: If you want real innovation, walk past the Toyota showroom.
Reason #2: The Engine Is Ancient – No Power Upgrade, No Hybrid, No Future-Proofing
150 kW. 500 Nm. 6-speed auto.
That’s the same 2.8L 1GD-FTV diesel from 2015. Yes, it’s reliable. Yes, it tows 3.5 tonnes. But in 2026? It’s outdated.
Rivals have moved on:
- Ford Ranger: 184 kW / 600 Nm V6 diesel or 157 kW bi-turbo.
- Isuzu D-Max: 140 kW / 450 Nm with better refinement.
- VW Amarok: 222 kW / 700 Nm V6 (coming 2026).
Even the 48V mild-hybrid is a band-aid—smooth stop-start and 0.3L/100km better economy. It’s not a real hybrid. No plug-in. No electric range. No tax breaks in India or Australia.
Toyota promises a battery-electric HiLux for fleets in late 2026—but not for you. And a plug-in hybrid? Maybe 2027.
You’re locked into diesel in a world going electric. Fuel prices rising. ULEZ zones expanding. And no power bump despite the ute being heavier with new safety tech.
Verdict: If you want future-proof power, the HiLux is stuck in 2015.
Reason #3: The Rear Seat Is Still a Joke – Cramped, Upright, and Uncomfortable
Toyota didn’t touch the wheelbase. It’s still 3,085 mm—same as 2015.
That means:
- Less rear legroom than a Ford Ranger (870 mm vs 910 mm).
- Upright backrest—no recline like Ranger, D-Max, or LDV T60.
- Tight headroom for anyone over 6ft.
Paul Maric sat in the back and said: “Feels pretty cramped and tight back there.”
This isn’t just about passengers. It’s about versatility.
- Can’t comfortably fit three tradies with gear?
- Kids complain on long trips?
- Dog cage doesn’t fit flat?
Rivals have reclining rear seats, under-seat storage, and more shoulder room. The HiLux? Still a two-adult max zone.
Verdict: If you ever carry people in the back, the HiLux fails the family test.
Reason #4: It’s Missing Modern Conveniences – No Tailgate Assist, No Tray Power, No Smarts
Toyota skimped where it hurts:
- No hydraulic tailgate assist on SR5 or below. You’ll slam it shut like it’s 2005.
- No 240V power outlet in the tray—Ranger has it. D-Max has it. Even Mahindra has it.
- Wireless charger has no cooling—your phone overheats and stops charging on bumpy roads.
- Partial halogen tail lights—in 2026? Really?
- No full-time 4WD—only part-time. Fine for off-road, annoying on wet highways.
Paul Maric called out the tailgate: “You’re going to be slamming this down.”
These aren’t luxury features. They’re productivity tools.
- Need to charge a drill in the tray? Nope.
- Tailgate drops on your shin? Yep.
- Phone dies mid-navigation? Welcome to 2026 Toyota.
Verdict: The HiLux is tough—but it’s not smart.
Reason #5: You’re Paying More for Less – Value Is Gone
The 2026 HiLux is more expensive than the 2025 model—despite being a facelift.
| Variant | 2025 Price (AUD) | 2026 Est. Price (AUD) | Increase |
|---|---|---|---|
| WorkMate | $45,000 | $48,000 | +6.7% |
| SR5 | $60,000 | $63,000 | +5% |
| Rogue | $68,000 | $72,000 | +5.9% |
| Rugged X | — | $80,000 | New premium |
Meanwhile:
- Isuzu D-Max X-Terrain: $65,000 AUD with more space, better ride, V-Cross styling.
- GWM Cannon Ultra: $50,000 AUD with leather, sunroof, 360 camera, hybrid option.
- Ford Ranger Wildtrak: $75,000 AUD with V6, full-time 4WD, air suspension.
You’re paying Toyota tax for a badge—and getting less innovation.
Verdict: The HiLux is no longer the value king. It’s the loyalty tax.
Final Verdict: Buy It If You Must. Avoid It If You Can.
The 2026 Toyota HiLux is reliable, tough, and resale-proof. But it’s also lazy, outdated, and overpriced.
If you:
- Only care about resale and dealer network → Buy it.
- Want space, power, tech, value → Avoid it.
Look at:
- Ford Ranger – Best all-rounder.
- Isuzu D-Max – Bulletproof value.
- GWM Cannon – Feature-packed disruptor.
- VW Amarok – Premium powerhouse.
- Mahindra Pik-Up – Coming 2026 with hybrid.
Paul Maric’s final words: “Toyota just hasn’t really put in a lot of effort here.”
Don’t reward complacency.
