Toyota Hilux vs. Tacoma: A Comparative Analysis
The Toyota Hilux is a renowned pickup truck, celebrated worldwide for its ruggedness and versatility. With recent updates, the Hilux now resembles the popular Tacoma, yet they remain distinctly different. Below, we delve into the similarities and differences between these two notable Toyota trucks, both acclaimed for their durability.
Hilux vs. Tacoma: Exterior Styling
The latest Hilux incorporates the Tacoma’s distinctive trapezoidal grille design; however, it showcases sleeker headlights and a more aerodynamic front fascia. Moreover, it features sharper body lines and wheel configurations. Additionally, Toyota offers an Invincible model with a more durable appearance and enhanced cladding.
The Hilux undoubtedly embodies the essence of a global market pickup, characterized by its proportionately large headlights and taillights, complemented by its sophisticated body sculpting. In contrast, the Tacoma presents a more blocky design with narrower headlights and pronounced fender flares, reflecting a more traditional truck aesthetic.
Hilux vs. Tacoma: Interior Styling
While both trucks exhibit similarities in exterior design, their interiors reveal a different approach. The Hilux offers a functional cockpit equipped with an 8.0-inch multimedia screen compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A digital clock rests above the screen, while Invincible variants provide luxurious features, including ambient blue lighting and perforated leather seating.
Conversely, the Tacoma’s interior emphasizes a rugged truck-like appearance. The recent updates include the introduction of a standard 7.0-inch touchscreen featuring popular integrations such as Apple CarPlay and Amazon Alexa. Additionally, the Tacoma comes equipped with the comprehensive Toyota Safety Sense suite, encompassing vital active-safety features for enhanced driving security.
Hilux vs. Tacoma: Powertrains
The new Hilux offers an improved 2.8-liter diesel engine alongside various gasoline and diesel powertrains. This robust 2.8-liter engine produces an impressive 201 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque, combined with either a six-speed manual or an automatic transmission. Toyota claims enhancements to the Hilux’s steering and suspension systems have significantly improved driver comfort as well.
In comparison, the Tacoma provides fewer options for powertrains. Buyers can choose between a 159-hp 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine or a more powerful 278-hp 3.5-liter V-6. Although a manual transmission is available for specific trims, most configurations employ a six-speed automatic transmission. Furthermore, both two- and four-wheel-drive variants are accessible, alongside multiple cab and bed arrangements.
Hilux vs. Tacoma: Availability
The updated Toyota Hilux will be released at staggered intervals across different markets. While it will debut in Eastern Europe in July, Australia in late August, and Western Europe in October, it will not be available in the United States in its current form. For U.S. consumers interested in a midsize Toyota pickup, only the Tacoma is on offer, with starting prices around $25,445, positioning it competitively within its class.
This unique positioning of two Toyota trucks within the same segment for different global markets is subject to change. Speculation surrounds the next-generation Tacoma and full-size Tundra potentially sharing a platform that may include the Hilux, aiming to streamline production and reduce costs for the automaker.
