The Japanese market gets just one variant of the turbodiesel-powered Toyota Hilux.
The new Toyota Hilux is now available for sale in Japan as a fully-imported vehicle from Thailand. Imagine the pride some Thai engineers must feel to be able to produce a vehicle fit for export to the home country of the brand that invested in yours. Anyway, there are a few things to note about this new Hilux in the Japan market beside it being made in Thailand. The only powertrain offered for sale in Japan is the 2.8 litre turbo diesel, the 1GD-FTV. This has been paired with the 6-speed conventional automatic which sends power to all four wheels when the part-time 4WD system is engaged. Unlike in Thailand, where there are multiple packages like the PreRunner and Overland, Japan has only made the new Hilux available for order as the Z or Z Adventure.
“Cyber SUMO” Styling and Dimensions
The new Toyota Hilux is built around the “Cyber SUMO” design concept, which evolves the utility truck toward a sharper, more solid appearance. Inspired by the initial charge between sumo wrestlers, the front profile utilizes sculpted fender covers, a massive radiator grille, and a sturdy bumper to project a stable stance. The premium Z Adventure model accentuates this look further by adding a distinct front lower bumper garnish and a rugged sports bar.
Physically, the midsize body measures 5,325 mm in length, 1,885 mm in width, and 1,865 mm in height. Built for outdoor leisure, it retains a flat-floor cargo deck separate from the cabin with a payload capacity of up to 500 kg. To make loading gear easier, the truck features an 845 mm deck height when open, alongside handy left and right rear quarter panel steps.
Refined Interior and Controls
Inside, a clean, horizontal instrument panel helps the driver easily gauge the vehicle’s orientation during technical off-road maneuvers. A prominent, independently positioned 12.3-inch center display sits flush at eye level. To ensure optimal visibility, Toyota consolidated all primary driving switches at the bottom of the center console, clearly separating them from the high-mounted navigation and climate control systems.
Chassis Upgrades and Powertrain Specifications
The reliable 1GD-FTV 2.8-liter direct-injection clean diesel engine is paired with a 6-speed automatic (6 Super ECT) to deliver quiet, forceful acceleration. Driving modes are selected via a centralized transfer case switch. Underneath, the traditional ladder-frame structure from the IMV series benefits from increased plate thickness in the side rails to handle heavy twisting forces. Engineers also applied 36 additional spot welds to the floor panel, drastically dampening cabin vibration and booming noises.
For urban driving, the implementation of an electric parking brake adds a stop-hold function to the Radar Cruise Control system, offering all-speed tracking support during heavy traffic.
Advanced Connected Safety Systems
The updated model receives a heavily reinforced Toyota Safety Sense suite. Key additions include Proactive Driving Assist for automatic steering and braking support on public roads, alongside a Pre-collision Safety system designed to detect crossing pedestrians and oncoming vehicles at intersections.
Finally, the 12.3-inch display features Connected Navigation via a Data Communication Module (DCM) to download live traffic data. This system is integrated with Help Net, which automatically contacts emergency operators the millisecond an airbag deploys to expedite emergency responses.
