Toyota prices 48-volt HiLux mild hybrid range

SELECT variants from the popular Toyota HiLux range will from next month (March) be available with 48-volt mild-hybrid technology, with pricing to begin from $54,130 plus on-road costs.

Branded as V-Active Technology by Toyota, the system will be offered on four-wheel drive double-cab variants fitted with an automatic transmission, including the SR cab-chassis, and SR5 and Rogue pick-ups.

Toyota Australia says its V-Active Technology contributes to greater performance and efficiency, and will be introduced alongside a raft of equipment upgrades.

For the first time, all variants equipped with V-Active Technology will also feature Toyota’s Multi-Terrain Select (MTS) off-road system, offering drivers six selectable modes to improve traction across a range of conditions. Available modes include Dirt, Sand, Mud, Deep Snow and Auto in high range 4WD, and Sand, Mud, Auto and Rock modes in low range 4WD.

Further, SR 4WD double-cab models equipped with V-Active Technology now include as standard dual-zone climate control, auto up/down power windows, and keyless entry and start. Toyota Australia says prices for the variant have increased by $1025 in cab-chassis form and $1605 for the pick-up when compared with the standard SR 4WD double-cab diesel automatic.

SR 4WD double-cab models are available optionally with a premium interior ($2500) while all grades are offered optionally with premium paint ($675).

For HiLux SR5 4WD double-cab automatic variants we now find V-Active Technology as standard, the grade further including an inductive charging pad for mobile phones and two USB-C charging ports in the rear. Pricing for the variant begins at $60,580 + ORC – an increase of $590.

HiLux Rogue also features V-Active Technology as standard while adding the same device charging technology as in the SR5. Pricing has increased by $770 to $71,530 + ORC.

Toyota’s V-Active Technology comprises a 48-volt motor/generator and DC/DC converter to offer what the importer says are several improvements in driveability, performance, fuel efficiency and NVH.

The system further benefits the existing 2.8-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel driveline in offering an idle-stop system. This function, along with the improvements listed above, is said to deliver an approximate improvement in overall fuel economy of 10 per cent when compared with variants equipped with the standard diesel engine.

Two settings are available – Normal and Long mode. The latter keeps the engine switched off for a longer period to allow for greater economy gains. Toyota says that restarting of the engine is exceptionally smooth, particularly when starting on inclines where the electric motor provides brake pressure until adequate drive force is generated to provide forward momentum.

V-Active Technology is also claimed to improve performance by storing energy to assist the diesel driveline when accelerating, helping also to reduce the load on the engine in areas of the rev range with lesser efficiency.

The technology allows a lower idling speed (down 120rpm to 600rpm).

In offering V-Active Technology, Toyota says it has worked to ensure the rugged off-road nature of the HiLux is preserved positioning the motor/generator high in the engine bay to allow for “successful and safe water crossings”. In this way, the belt-driven unit differs significantly from other 48-volt MHEV systems which are integrated within the transmission bell housing.

GoAuto understands power and torque figures are unchanged from the diesel variant (at 150kW/500Nm).

“The introduction of V-Active Technology for HiLux is yet another step as we continue to refine and improve the efficiency and performance of our range and we wanted to ensure it remained a great value proposition for our customers,” said Toyota Australia vice president of sales, marketing, and franchise operations Shaun Hanley.

“With minimal price increases, we believe we have achieved that especially when you factor in the additional equipment and refreshed styling that will ensure HiLux will continue to appeal to a broad set of customers.”

2024 Toyota HiLux 4x4 Double Cab V-Active Technology pricing*:

*Pricing excludes on-road costs.