Functional Interior
The 5-seater double-cab cabin prioritizes utility with sturdy materials, leatherette upholstery (Black Edition), and metallic accents. The 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system supports Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and connected car tech, paired with a 6-speaker sound system. Features include dual-zone climate control, powered driver’s seat, cruise control, push-button start, and a multi-information display. The Black Edition adds a cohesive black interior theme, enhancing sophistication. While spacious with ample legroom and storage, the interior lacks the plushness of SUVs like the Toyota Fortuner, and rear-seat comfort is basic for long drives.
Powerful Performance
Powered by a 2.8-litre turbo-diesel engine (2755cc, 4-cylinder), it delivers 204 PS at 3400 rpm and 420 Nm (manual) or 500 Nm (automatic) at 1400-3400 rpm. Available with 6-speed manual or 6-speed torque-converter automatic transmissions, it supports 4×4 drivetrain (standard in Black Edition, optional in others). The Hilux excels in off-road conditions with locking differentials, hill-start assist, downhill assist, and a 29-degree approach angle (30 degrees for Black Edition). It tows up to 3500 kg (manual) or 3200 kg (automatic), ideal for heavy-duty tasks. However, the engine feels less refined than the Fortuner’s, and the 10-12 kmpl mileage (ARAI: 10 kmpl, real-world: 11-12.25 kmpl) is average.
Safety and Off-Road Features
The Hilux boasts a 5-star Global NCAP rating with 7 airbags (driver, passenger, front/rear side, curtain, knee), ABS, vehicle stability control, brake assist, hill-start assist, downhill assist, ISOFIX mounts, front/rear parking sensors, rear camera, and an anti-theft alarm. The rigid frame absorbs impacts effectively, but the absence of ADAS features (common in premium rivals) is a limitation. Off-road capabilities include a low-range gearbox, locking rear differential, and 265/65 R17 (base) or 265/60 R18 (top variants) tyres, making it ideal for rough terrains, though larger wheels reduce fuel efficiency.
Pricing and Availability
Priced from ₹30.40 lakh (STD) to ₹37.90 lakh (Black Edition, ex-showroom), on-road prices in Delhi range from ₹35.96 lakh to ₹44.50 lakh, including RTO (~₹3.80-4.74 lakh) and insurance (~₹1.20-1.50 lakh). Available in 4 variants (STD MT, High MT, High AT, Black Edition AT) and 5 colours (White Pearl Crystal Shine, Emotional Red, Attitude Black, Grey Metallic, Super White), it’s sold via Toyota dealerships, Amazon, and Flipkart. Bookings require a ₹50,000 token, with a 4-week waiting period. Offers include ₹6-8 lakh discounts on higher trims, exchange bonuses (₹2-3 lakh), and EMI options (₹58,807/month at 10.5% interest, ₹3.04 lakh down payment). Maintenance costs are ~₹11,313 for 5 years, supported by Toyota’s 300+ service centers. The warranty is 5 years or unlimited km, extendable to 7 years with timely dealer servicing.
User Feedback and Drawbacks
Users praise the reliability, off-road prowess, spacious cargo bay, safety features, and Black Edition’s bold aesthetics. The 4×4 system and towing capacity appeal to professionals and adventurers, while the roomy cabin suits families. Drawbacks include:
- No ADAS features, unlike premium SUVs.
- Bouncy ride when unloaded.
- Average fuel efficiency (10-12 kmpl).
- Basic rear-seat comfort for long drives.
- High maintenance costs compared to smaller vehicles.
Comparison with Competitors
The Hilux competes with:
- Isuzu V-Cross (₹26-27.92 lakh, 2.2L diesel, 163 PS): Cheaper, but less powerful and feature-rich.
- Toyota Fortuner (₹36.05-50.74 lakh, 2.8L diesel, 204 PS): More refined, but pricier and less cargo-focused.
- Mahindra Scorpio N (₹13.85-24.54 lakh, 2.2L diesel, 172 PS): Affordable, but not a pickup.
The Hilux excels in off-road capability and safety but lags in refinement and advanced tech compared to SUVs.
Final Thoughts
The Toyota Hilux 2025, updated with the Black Edition on March 7, 2025, offers a 2.8L turbo-diesel engine, 4×4 capability, 5-star safety, and a rugged design at ₹30.40-37.90 lakh. Ideal for off-road enthusiasts and professionals needing a reliable workhorse, it shines in durability and towing but falls short in ride refinement and advanced safety tech. Backed by Toyota’s robust service network, it’s a top pick in India’s pickup segment
