TOYOTA Hilux Double Cab
Generations Timeline, Specs and Pictures
The eighth generation of the Toyota Hilux came on the market with a second facelift in June 2020, after the one introduced in 2017.
The Hilux was known for its reliability and trustworthy capabilities. The pick-up won the Dakar rally-raid race, the North Pole, and the Icelandic volcanos. Its rugged chassis and reliable drivetrain made it a great choice for off-roaders as well.
The 2020 model came with essential updates at the front fascia with a redesigned grille and LED headlights. From its sides, the 2020 double-cab Hilux featured 18” light-alloy wheels. It looked more like a lifestyle utility vehicle than a utility truck with that design and stylish exterior elements. In the back, the new LED taillights improved the car’s visibility.
Inside, Toyota upgraded the Hilux interior with a new design for the dashboard and driving post. On the center stack, an 8” infotainment unit combined the car’s entertainment and other information on the same screen. The enhanced multimedia system featured a new touch-screen and incorporated both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A JBL sound system was available.
Under the hood, Toyota installed a revised 2.8-liter turbodiesel unit. It gained few horses even if it had to comply with the stricter Euro 6d emission regulations. A 6-speed manual was fitted as standard while a 6-speed automatic was on the options list.
The eighth generation of the legendary Toyota Hilux received a mid-cycle facelift that completely transforms the look of the model while getting several updates that improve its fuel efficiency.
The revamped model was unveiled officially at the 2017 Thailand International Motor Expo.
The biggest exterior change compared to its predecessor is probably the bigger engine grille, which is related in style with the one found on the latest Toyota Tacoma made for the United States. Both the grille and the fog lamp surrounds are now finished in a chrome-like appearance, with the overall look being a lot more imposing than before.
There is also a redesigned front bumper with integrated fog lights, while the rear end has remained largely unchanged. New alloy wheel designs and colors complete the exterior revamp, while some Hilux versions get a glossy black grille and a grey rear bumper bar.
Thanks to updates made to various areas of the powerplants and gearbox, most Hilux versions equipped with the six-speed automatic transmission are a bit more fuel efficient than before, but mechanically they are largely unchanged. Oddly enough, all diesel versions get a Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) switch now, which allows the driver to manually initiate a cleansing burn of the soot captured by the filter during low-speed driving.
Launched in 2015, the eighth generation Toyota Hilux is offered in three cab choices, the Hilux Double Cab here being the most marketed one, since it works both as a work and family vehicles.
The bigger cabin allows for a proper second row of seats, being able to carry 5 passengers in comfort and safety. Styling follows Toyota’s newest Keen Look and Under Priority design language, coming with thinner, wraparound headlights, a three-bar grille, trapezoidal lower vent, chunky wheel arches and new stoplights. The sturdy interior is completely redesigned, coming with more space, better materials as well as a range of new technological and safety features.
The updated seventh generation Toyota Hilux comes with a range of improvements, regarding both styling and comfort.
The exterior gets a new hood, grille, bumper and headlights as well as different rear bumper and rims. The design of the dash has been improved upon with the horizontal center instrument cluster reinforcing the breadth and roominess of the cabin. There’s also a new 6.1-inch color touch screen infotainment unit with multiple connectivity sitting in the middle, while better materials have been used throughout the cabin. Speaking of which, the Double Cab version here is the biggest available, featuring four door and proper rear seats.