The Toyota Hilux Features New Engines That the Tacoma Needs
Oh goodness, the Toyota Hilux is at it again! The new Toyota Hilux is featuring a few engine upgrades that we wish the Toyota Tacoma could have. Perhaps the Hilux serves as a preview for what we can expect for the Tacoma, though.
The Toyota Hilux gains new engines
First of all, if you’re wondering what the Toyota Hilux is, it’s basically the Toyota Tacoma’s cousin. It’s a version of the Tacoma that’s sold in other markets around the world. It was the predecessor to the Tacoma we have today.
The Hilux was discontinued in America to make way for the Tacoma. Redesigning the Hilux to meet increasing emission standards would have taken a lot more time and money than introducing the new Tacoma.
Anyways, the 2023 Hilux is set to receive incredible engine upgrades. A hybrid powertrain will be introduced for 2022, and in 2023 it’s expected to gain Toyota’s all-new V6 turbodiesel engine. It’s almost gaining the best of each world.
How much power will the Hilux have?
It’s unclear how much power the hybrid setup will provide. But the 2023 Toyota Hilux with the new V6 turbodiesel engine is expected to provide about 308 hp and 510 lb-ft of torque. Currently, the 2021 Toyota Tacoma’s 3.5-liter V6 engine generates 278 hp and 265 lb-ft of torque, so this would be an exciting increase in power.
The standard Hilux comes with a 2.8-liter turbodiesel engine that pumps out 175 hp and 330 lb-ft of torque. But it can be combined with an electric motor to transform into a mild hybrid system with an improved fuel economy. Rumors suggest that the Hybrid Hilux could generate 200 hp and 350 lb-ft of torque.
We would like to see the Tacoma gain a hybrid option. It currently gets an EPA-estimated 20 mpg in the city and up to 23 mpg on the highway. But this upgrade could be on the way. The Toyota Tundra is gaining a hybrid powertrain that we could see in the refreshed 2022 model.
Toyota has confirmed that they will unveil hybrid and battery-electric pickup trucks soon. We will just have to wait to see the changes in the Tundra before we see the brand new Tacoma. On that note, the 2023 Toyota Tacoma is expected to be redesigned.
What’s new for the Hilux and Tacoma?
The 2023 Toyota Hilux will feature a new exterior design with a unique grille and new LED headlights. The rear fascia could receive new taillights and an updated bumper design as well. New wheels are on the way, and the truck should retain a similar size and shape.
It’s safe to expect similar exterior updates for the Tacoma. However, the 2023 Toyota Tacoma could gain similar looks to the new 2022 Tundra. It might have a boxier shape with a similar grille and headlight design.
Both the Hilux and Tacoma will receive updated interiors. Outdated plastics and other cheap materials will be replaced by premium materials for an upscale feel and appearance. The Hilux is getting more chrome, and we aren’t sure if the Tacoma will.
It’s safe to expect a more extensive infotainment system and digital cluster display. The Tacoma already features a wireless charging pad, but it could also receive wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Unfortunately, we have to wait to learn more. However, the Hilux could serve as a preview for the Toyota Tundra, and we hope it does. A hybrid powertrain and stout turbodiesel option would really spice things up.
