Toyota launches the new-generation Hilux in India from INR 31.99 lakh

Toyota Kirloskar Motor has launched the ninth-generation Hilux in India, priced from INR 31.99 lakh to INR 36.69 lakh ex-showroom, refreshing its niche lifestyle pickup with a new look, a larger cabin screen and more features while keeping the same diesel engine.

It is a full-generation update to a low-volume but high-visibility nameplate, landing as pickups edge from workhorse to lifestyle buy in India. But the India model is a pared-back version of the global one: buyers get the 2.8-litre diesel only, missing the mild-hybrid, petrol and electric options and the radar-based driver-assist features offered abroad, because the top Indian trim is a mid-range variant globally.

There are three variants, all automatic: the GX 4x2 at INR 31.99 lakh, the GX 4x4 at INR 33.69 lakh and the VX 4x4 at INR 36.69 lakh. It stays on Toyota's IMV body-on-frame platform in a double-cab form, with the 2.8-litre diesel making 204 PS and 500 Nm through a six-speed automatic, and four-wheel drive with low range on the higher trims. New kit includes a 12.3-inch touchscreen, a 360-degree camera and seven airbags. It is assembled locally from kits at Toyota's Karnataka plant. Bookings opened on 28 July, with deliveries from the second week of August.

The Hilux stays a niche buy, one of the few non-commercial pickups on sale in India, competing mainly with the Isuzu V-Cross; the outgoing model started at about INR 28.5 lakh, so the new one opens higher but tops out close to before. The more consequential move for Toyota may be reuse: its new cabin is expected to carry into the next Fortuner, a far bigger seller.

Toyota describes the launch as strengthening its SUV line-up under a 'Mobility for All' approach.