Mark your calendars – the new ninth-generation Hilux, set to gain the Travo suffix in Thailand, will make its debut on November 10 in the Land of Smiles ahead of the Thai Motor Expo at the end of that month. According to local automotive portal Autolifethailand, this will include the much-anticipated fully-electric version that will do battle with rivals like the Isuzu D-Max EV.
As per the previous (Revo) version, the latest model is set to soldier on with the tried and true IMV platform, retaining its predecessor’s cab section. However, there will be significant revisions to the front and rear styling, as shown in spyshots and patent drawings earlier in the year.
The makeover will extend to the interior as well, with a more angular layered design and elements taken from the Land Cruiser Prado, such as a flatter, wider gearlever. These have been integrated into the new Land Cruiser FJ, which is also based on the IMV architecture and built in Thailand.
Expect the new Hilux to retain the same engines and drivetrains as before, including 2GD-FTV 2.4 litre and 1GD-FTV 2.8 litre four-cylinder turbodiesels, a six-speed automatic gearbox and rear- or part-time four-wheel drive. Tightening emissions regulations in Europe are also forcing electrification upon the pick-up, with the current model already available with a 48-volt mild hybrid system.
As mentioned earlier, there is also an electric model expected to be revealed alongside the combustion-engined version. This would benefit places such as the UK, which recently closed loopholes that enabled double-cab trucks to be classified as commercial vehicles, subjecting these heavily-polluting vehicles to much higher company car tax rates. This is an opportunity that Isuzu also intends to cash in on with the D-Max EV, Autocar reported.
We would not be surprised to see the Hilux debut alongside the Thai-market Land Cruiser FJ – the compact 4×4 is set to go on sale there in early 2026. Are you excited for this pair of rugged Toyotas? Sound off in the comments after the jump.
GALLERY: 2026 Toyota Hilux patents, renders and spyshots
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