The 2026 Toyota Hilux arrives in Vietnam with a new 2.8L diesel, fresh design and advanced safety tech. Find out if it can dent Ford Ranger’s market lead – read more now!
After months of speculation, Toyota finally unveiled the 2026 version of its iconic Hilux in Vietnam. The new model arrives in three trims – Standard (VND 632 million), Pro (VND 706 million) and the premium Trailhunter (VND 903 million) – all powered by a 2.8‑litre turbo‑charged diesel that has become the new benchmark for the brand’s mid‑size pickups.
Redesigned Exterior
From the front, the Hilux looks sharper and more athletic. A 3‑D perforated grille, reminiscent of the Corolla Cross, sits beneath bi‑LED projector headlights. The Toyota badge is now prominently displayed on the rear hatch, while the logo on the tailgate adds a touch of brand identity.
Wheel options have been updated: 17‑inch alloys on the Pro and 18‑inch alloys on the Trailhunter. Black trim accents and a longer, lower roofline (overall length 5.32 m) give the truck a more muscular silhouette.
Cabin and Technology
The interior follows the “strong and flexible” philosophy with angular surfaces and a driver‑centred layout. The top‑spec Trailhunter features a 12‑inch digital instrument cluster placed next to a 12.3‑inch central infotainment screen. Leather‑wrapped seats with 10‑way electric adjustment are standard on this trim.
Safety gets a major boost through the Toyota Safety Sense suite, which includes forward collision warning, lane‑departure alert, blind‑spot monitoring, rear cross‑traffic alert, parking‑assist brake, hill‑start assist and a 360° camera. An automatic two‑zone climate system with PM2.5 filtration comes standard across the range.
Powertrain
The 2.8 L turbo diesel delivers up to 201 hp and a peak torque of 420 Nm (or 500 Nm in the high‑output variant). Buyers can choose between a six‑speed manual or a six‑speed automatic gearbox, depending on the trim.
For off‑road enthusiasts, the Trailhunter introduces Multi‑Terrain Select (MTS) – the first time the system appears on a Hilux – allowing drivers to optimise traction on sand, mud, rock or snow. An electric power‑steering unit (EPS) on the Trailhunter also improves fuel efficiency and steering feel.
Pricing Comparison
- Toyota Hilux 2026: VND 632 – 903 million
- Ford Ranger (2025 model): VND 707 million – 1.039 billion
- Mitsubishi Triton: VND 655 – 924 million
- Isuzu D‑Max: VND 650 – 880 million
At the entry‑level, the Hilux is the most affordable mid‑size pickup on the Vietnamese market, positioning it as a strong value proposition for budget‑ conscious buyers.
Market Outlook
Ford Ranger commanded roughly 69 % of Vietnam’s pickup sales in 2025, moving 18,692 units. Toyota’s Hilux slipped to third place with sales under 4,000 units, trailing both Ford and Mitsubishi. The big question is whether the 2026 refresh can reverse that trend.
Analysts from Znews believe the Pro trim, priced at VND 706 million, will become the sales driver for the new Hilux. Its combination of a powerful 2.8 L engine, modern tech and competitive pricing could attract buyers who currently favour the Ranger or the newer Triton.
Challenges Ahead
While the larger diesel meets Euro 5 standards, Vietnam’s low‑emission zones (LEZ) are tightening. Diesel‑powered pickups may face stricter scrutiny in the coming years, nudging some consumers toward hybrid or electric alternatives.
Nevertheless, the Hilux’s reputation for durability, its refreshed design and the inclusion of advanced driver‑assist features give it a solid platform to challenge the market leader.
Bottom Line
The 2026 Toyota Hilux arrives as a well‑rounded, cost‑effective contender that could reshape the pickup hierarchy in Vietnam. Whether it can truly dent Ford Ranger’s dominance will depend on how quickly Toyota can convert its design and technology upgrades into actual sales on the showroom floor.
