It has been a long ten-year wait since the eighth-generation Toyota Hilux arrived in 2016. As the undisputed backbone of South Africa’s agricultural, fleet, and overlanding communities since 1968, any replacement faces monumental expectations. Developed over a meticulous five-year period starting in August 2021, the highly anticipated ninth-generation Hilux has finally landed on African soil.
We took the wheel of the newcomer to deliver a comprehensive first driving impression, focusing strictly on the extensive technical upgrades and real-world mechanical performance of Toyota’s latest icon.
The Concept: “Cyber-Sumo” Design Philosophy
Toyota’s design team approached Gen 9 with a concept they call “Cyber-Sumo”. “Cyber” represents the massive technological leap forward inside the cabin, while “Sumo” dictates the vehicle’s visual stance—wide, low, and incredibly well-planted on the ground.
While the core cab shell remains familiar, the exterior receives a modern overhaul:
- Lighting: Full LED headlights are now standard across the entire range. Base models receive a projector beam setup, while high-grade variants feature premium LED clusters and redesigned rear taillights.
- Styling Cues: A completely redesigned front fascia, a reworked rear bumper, a built-in rear access step, and updated tailgate insignia redefine its look.
- Fresh Hues: Alongside the carryover palette, Toyota introduces two new colours: Desert Gold Metallic and Ash Grey (which replaces Graphite Grey).
Mechanical Upgrades: Taming the Corrugations
The most profound changes to the ninth-generation Hilux are hidden underneath the skin. Historically, the Hilux has faced criticism regarding unladen ride comfort on harsh surfaces. Toyota targeted this directly by reinforcing the chassis frame to eliminate vibrations and sharpen steering control.
The shock absorbers have been significantly upscaled to larger monotube units utilizing a new formulation of high-end thermal oil. On punishing corrugated gravel tracks, conventional dampers can heat up to an astonishing 600°C, causing the oil to foam, lose viscosity, and trigger a complete loss of compression damping. The new Hilux units manage heat efficiently, running at an average temperature of just 200°C under identical stress. This keeps the suspension working optimally without fade.
Furthermore, the rear suspension layout features completely redesigned comfort-level leaf springs on high-grade variants, while entry-level workhorses retain a more rigid leaf setup to handle maximum payloads.
On the Road: Gravel-Route Evaluation
Sliding behind the wheel, the immediate revelation is the implementation of Electronic Power Steering (EPS), replacing the old hydraulic setup. EPS provides a lighter, more precise steering feel at low speeds while remaining reassuringly firm when pushing on.
Driving the 2.8 GD-6 variant in Four-High (4H) at speeds between 110 km/h and 120 km/h on heavily corrugated gravel roads highlights the true impact of the chassis revisions. The traditional “tail kick-out” over mid-corner bumps is gone. Instead, the compression and subsequent release of the suspension feel perfectly balanced across both axles. Even when encountered with severe road corrugations, the rear end remains remarkably stable, tracking true without any nervous breaking out.
The 2.8-litre powertrain benefits from extensively reworked software calibration managing the relationship between the throttle, engine, and automatic transmission. The gearbox performs flawlessly, locking into the correct gear without hunting back and forth. Over a demanding 1,000 km evaluation spent almost entirely in 4H, the Hilux returned a highly respectable fuel consumption figure of 11.6 litres per 100 km.
Cabin Overhaul and Safety Tech
The interior layout draws distinct inspiration from the premium Land Cruiser series, embracing a highly functional horizontal axis. Mid- and high-spec grades receive a stunning 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster paired with a matching 12.3-inch central infotainment screen, which finally supports flawless wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
GEN 9 TECHNOLOGY & SAFETY INTEGRATION
- Toyota Safety Sense 3 (TSS3) Adaptive Cruise Control
- Active Lane Keep Assist (Steering Intervention)
- Blind Spot Monitoring & Safe Exit Assist
- Multi-Terrain Monitor with Selectable Drive Modes
- Ultra-Wideband (UWB) Anti-Theft Key Technology
- Global NCAP 5-Star Safety Rating Standard Across Range
Safety is dramatically elevated via the transition to Toyota Safety Sense 3 (TSS3). This brings true adaptive cruise control and active lane keep assist with steering intervention. Security is similarly bolstered by Ultra-Wideband (UWB) key technology to prevent signal-relay theft.
Line-Up, Grades, and Pricing
The A Simplified Range with Greater Focus
To better align with customer requirements and market demands, Toyota has streamlined the Hilux range while introducing strategic new offerings.
SRX – Value Meets Capability
Returning to the Hilux family, SRX strengthens Toyota’s offering in the highly competitive value-focused segment. Developed to deliver greater specification and value, SRX enhances Hilux’s appeal among both commercial operators and private buyers.
Available in:
- 2.8 GD-6 RB SRX 6AT
- 2.8 GD-6 4×4 SRX 6AT
Raider – The Ultimate All-Rounder
Raider continues to bridge the gap between work and lifestyle applications. Combining practicality, comfort and strong specification levels, it remains one of the most versatile models in the Hilux range.
Available in:
- 2.8 GD-6 RB Raider 6AT
- 2.8 GD-6 4×4 Raider 6AT
Raider X – Elevated Capability and Technology
A significant addition to the line-up, Raider X introduces enhanced technology, advanced safety systems and elevated convenience features. Positioned above Raider, it delivers a more premium ownership experience while retaining the rugged capability expected of Hilux.
Available in:
- 2.8 GD-6 RB Raider X 6AT
- 2.8 GD-6 4×4 Raider X 6AT
Available in Xtra Cab and Double Cab derivatives.
Legend – The Flagship Adventure Grade
Legend continues to represent the pinnacle of refinement, innovation and lifestyle appeal within the Hilux range. Featuring distinctive styling elements, premium appointments and advanced technologies, it caters to customers seeking the ultimate Hilux experience.
The Hilux Legend also introduces Mild Hybrid technology. Its advanced 48-volt system combines an 8.5kW/65Nm electric motor generator, lithium-ion battery and DC/DC converter to deliver smoother stop-start operation, enhanced driving refinement and improved responsiveness when accelerating from standstill.
Available in:
- 2.8 GD-6 RB Legend 6AT MHEV
- 2.8 GD-6 4×4 Legend 6AT MHEV
Available in Double Cab derivatives.
Customers can choose from a wide range of exterior colours, including Chromium Silver, Arizona Red, Oxide Bronze, Glacier Silver, White Pearl, Attitude Black, Desert Gold Metallic and Ash Grey.
Pricing
Xtra Cab
- 2.8 GD-6 RB Raider X 6AT – R751 800
- 2.8 GD-6 4×4 Raider X 6AT – R842 200
Double Cab
Pricing for ninth-generation Hilux Single Cab will be released in the third quarter of this year.rollout strategy starts mid-2026 with the premium 2.8 GD-6 derivatives, while high-efficiency 2.4 manual models will arrive in the first quarter of next year.
2.8 GD-6 RB SRX 6AT – R658 500
2.8 GD-6 4×4 SRX 6AT – R746 100
2.8 GD-6 4×4 Raider X 6AT – R892 900
2.8 GD-6 RB Legend 6AT MHEV – R945 500
2.8 GD-6 4×4 Legend 6AT MHEV – R999 900
All models include a 3-year warranty and a 9-year service plan, alongside an extended 8-year/160,000 km warranty on the 48V battery-equipped models. The ninth-generation Hilux has successfully evolved into a highly refined, technologically advanced overlander without compromising an inch of its legendary utility.
