Toyota Australia has confirmed that a 48V mild-hybrid system will be added to certain variants of the 2024 Toyota HiLux range in the first half of 2024. Set to increase fuel efficiency by approximately 10 per cent, the new mild-hybrid system will make the HiLux the first ute on sale in Australia with any form of hybrid assistance – though it won’t be a full-fledged hybrid like the other hybrid models sold locally like the RAV4, Kluger and Corolla Cross.
Toyota Australia Vice President Sales, Marketing and Franchise Operations Sean Hanley said the introduction of 48-Volt Technology to HiLux demonstrated Toyota’s commitment to reducing the fuel consumption of its vehicles without compromising on the performance and capability demanded by customers.
“We are continually striving to reduce the fuel consumption of our vehicles to help reduce on-going costs for customers, as well as helping reduce our environmental impact, and the addition of 48-Volt Technology to our biggest-selling vehicle line will contribute to this,” Mr Hanley said.
“This new technology will not only improve fuel consumption, but customers will also benefit from enhanced on and off-road performance, making the HiLux even more appealing for a weekend away or longer term excursion into the outback,” he said.
To be standard equipment on the SR5 and Rogue double cab models, and optional on the SR 4×4 double cab, the new 48V mild-hybrid system will cut fuel consumption by approximately 10 per cent, according to the brand. That will give the Rogue 4×4 a combined fuel consumption of around 7.6L/100km, while the SR5 could drop to around 7.2L/100km – incidentally, that’s also the claimed consumption for the Ford Ranger 2.0-litre bi-turbo diesel 4×4.
Importantly, Toyota claims that the HiLux’s capability won’t be affected by the new MHEV system with its 3,500kg braked towing capacity unaffected – though due to the MHEV’s extra weight, its payload could be affected. But in addition to delivering improved fuel economy, the new mild-hybrid system will enable a stop/start system, improved driveability and reduced noise, vibration and harshness.
The 2024 Toyota HiLux 48V mild-hybrid is due in Australian showrooms in the first half of 2024, with local pricing and specifications to be confirmed before then. Stay tuned to DiscoverAuto for the latest automotive news and reviews.
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