Toyota has unveiled the ninth generation of its iconic Hilux bakkie in Thailand, and this time, a full electric version joins the line-up.
Details on when it will reach South African shores and what the local model range will include have not yet been confirmed, although speculation suggests it could arrive sometime next year.
Indications are that the 150kW, 500Nm 2.8-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel will continue, alongside the smaller 2.4-litre turbo-diesel (110kW and 400Nm) and the all-rounder 2.7-litre petrol engine (122kW and 245Nm).
The full electric version, which will complement rather than replace the hybrid, features dual electric motors (one on each axle) producing a combined output of 144 kW. It draws power from a 59kWh battery, offering a claimed range of around 315 km.
Milestones in the Toyota Hilux’s South African history:
There is no doubt that Toyota South Africa Motors’ Prospecton facility in KwaZulu-Natal will continue to play a key role in the Hilux’s evolution.
The latest version reportedly shares its platform with the current range but gains significant technical and cosmetic updates. A new honeycomb grille and slimmer headlights echo the Corolla Cross’s styling, while a more sculpted rear end enhances its modern look.
Inside, the cabin takes inspiration from the new Land Cruiser Prado, offering a fresh, contemporary design focused on driver and passenger comfort.
South Africa’s fast evolving automotive industry faces an urgent challenge in ensuring technical aftersales skills keep pace with increasingly advanced vehicle technology.
South Africa’s electric vehicle (EV) market is at a pivotal moment. Progress has been made in manufacturing, registrations, and charging infrastructure, but the pace and scale of adoption will depend on decisive policy choices and coordinated industry action.
TruckStore, the used-vehicle division of Daimler Truck Southern Africa, has opened a new facility on the West Rand, strengthening its presence in one of Gauteng’s busiest used-truck corridors.
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I have bad reflexes. I was once run over by a car being pushed by two guys
Woody Allen
The updated Isuzu MU-X has arrived in South Africa with a blend of familiar strengths and carefully considered upgrades. The 2026 model year introduces improvements in safety, convenience, and efficiency, while retaining the rugged reliability that has defined the MU-X range.
South African buyers are increasingly drawn to vehicles that combine the practicality of a bakkie with the comfort of an SUV. The LDV Terron 9 enters the market positioned as a double cab that blends rugged utility with modern refinement, the manufacturer claims.
The compact SUV market in South Africa has gained a new contender with the arrival of the GAC Emzoom Nova. It joins the existing Emzoom Executive and Emzoom R‑Style models, broadening the range offered by Salvador Caetano South Africa, the official distributor of GAC Motor.
