Toyota Hilux: Is this THE pick-up for 2026?
If there’s one pick-up which stands tall among all of the others, it’s the Toyota Hilux. With a reputation for reliability and toughness established over decades, the Hilux remains a popular option for motorists who want a no-nonsense truck with loads of capability.
In 2026, the Hilux remains a top option and has got more features than ever. It’s also a truck we’re proud to offer here at UK Carline, but why is it one of the best choices if you’re looking for a pick-up in 2026? Let’s take a look.
It’s got a robust design
Though the Hilux may look quite modern on the outside, Toyota hasn’t forgotten about what has made this truck so popular – toughness. As is so traditional with trucks, it sits on a ladder frame chassis, which helps to make it stiffer and more able to deal with big obstacles without twisting.
As a result, you get some excellent payload capacities. Toyota says it can carry up to 1,085kg in the load bed and has a maximum towing capacity of 3,500kg. You also get a wading depth of up to 700mm, meaning the Hilux can tackle rather deep sections of water without concern.
It’s more luxurious than you might think
Pick-up trucks have traditionally been quite back-to-basics options, but the Hilux shows that this doesn’t always have to be the case. Luxurious Invincible-grade trucks – like the ones we currently have on offer here at UK Carline – bring loads of equipment to help make things more comfortable, such as a power-adjustable driver’s seat, panoramic parking camera and even 18-inch alloy wheels.
You’ll also find space for five people inside and there are plenty of power points to help keep devices topped up. Of course, you can also equip the Hilux with a variety of accessories to help it fit the job you’ve got in mind, such as rear load bed covers or extra interior protection.
There’s plenty of tech on board
While the Hilux is still more than capable of handling rough terrain with ease, it has gained a lot more technology inside to make the journey more intuitive. On Invincible models, you get a large central infotainment screen and it’s equipped with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to help mirror your smartphone on the display. Plus, there’s the MyToyota app, which allows you to see a number of readouts about your truck remotely and even locate it – handy if you’ve forgotten where you’ve parked.
You also get all of your usual extras such as automatic high beam and cruise control, equipped as standard as well.
Mild-hybrid technology has been added
Toyota recently introduced mild-hybrid technology to the Hilux range for the first time, helping to boost efficiency while keeping the same great levels of performance as before. You still get a robust 2.8-litre turbocharged diesel engine, but thanks to that electrification, it can now manage up to 27.9mpg combined, while CO2 emissions are low for the segment at 265g/km. It reflects a wider use of hybrid technology across the range, from cars like the Prius through to the latest Aygo X.
All models – as you’d expect – get all-wheel-drive as standard, too, as well as an automatic gearbox.
What about rivals?
The Hilux may be one of the best-known names in the business, but there are plenty of alternatives out there. You’ve got the likes of the Volkswagen Amarok, of course, and the popular Ford Ranger. Both of these trucks share the same platform, but are differentiated from one another by specifications and looks.
A firm favourite is the Isuzu D-Max, too, which has a track record for reliability which is just as sparkling as that of the Hilux. The great news is that you’ll find all of these trucks – and more – available on UK Carline today.
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