Discover the all‑new Toyota Hilux 2026 launched in Vietnam, its 2.8L diesel power, advanced safety tech, and price range. See if it can dethrone the Ford Ranger – learn more.
After months of rumours, Toyota has officially unveiled the 2026 generation of its iconic Hilux pickup in Vietnam. The new model arrives in three trims – Standard (VND 632 million), Pro (VND 706 million) and the top‑end Trailhunter (VND 903 million) – all powered by a turbo‑charged 2.8‑litre diesel engine.
Bold New Design
From the front, the 2026 Hilux adopts a sharper, more athletic silhouette. A 3‑D perforated grille, reminiscent of the Corolla Cross, gives the truck a high‑tech vibe, while bi‑LED projector headlights sit flush with a slim daytime‑running‑light bar. The rear features a large, bold “Toyota” badge on the tailgate and new alloy wheels (17‑inch on Pro, 18‑inch on Trailhunter).
Measuring 5.32 m long, 1.855 m wide and 1.815 m high with a 3.085 m wheelbase, the new Hilux maintains generous ground clearance (312 mm) across all variants, reinforcing its off‑road credibility.
Powertrain Upgrade
The previous 2.4 L diesel has been replaced by a robust 2.8 L turbo diesel, delivering up to 201 hp and a peak torque of 420 Nm (up to 500 Nm on certain calibrations). Buyers can choose a six‑speed manual or a six‑speed automatic, depending on the trim.
Interior and Technology
Inside, the cabin blends ruggedness with modern ergonomics. The Pro and Trailhunter trims feature a 12.3‑inch central infotainment screen paired with a 12‑inch digital instrument cluster positioned behind the steering wheel. Trailhunter owners also enjoy leather‑upholstered seats with 10‑way electric adjustment for the driver.
Climate control is dual‑zone automatic on the highest trim, and a standard PM2.5 particulate filter ensures cleaner cabin air – a welcome addition for Vietnam’s urban centres.
Advanced Safety – Toyota Safety Sense
Safety tech steps up with the Toyota Safety Sense suite, now standard on the Trailhunter. Features include pre‑collision warning, lane‑departure alert, blind‑spot monitoring, rear‑cross‑traffic alert, parking‑assist brake, hill‑start assist and a 360‑degree camera system.
The Trailhunter also gains a Multi‑Terrain Select (MTS) system, offering preset driving modes for mud, sand, rocks and snow – a first for the Hilux line‑up. An electric power‑steering unit (EPS) on the top trim promises better fuel efficiency and a more responsive feel.
Pricing vs. Competitors
At VND 632‑903 million, the Hilux is the most affordable mid‑size pickup in Vietnam’s market. By comparison, the Ford Ranger – the segment’s current leader – starts at VND 707 million and can top VND 1.04 billion, while the Mitsubishi Triton ranges from VND 655 million to VND 924 million and the Isuzu D‑Max from VND 650 million to VND 880 million.
This price advantage, combined with the larger 2.8 L engine, positions the Hilux as a strong value proposition for buyers who want diesel power without a premium price tag.
Market Outlook
Ford Ranger captured about 69% of Vietnam’s pickup sales in 2025, moving roughly 18,700 units. Toyota’s Hilux sales slipped to just over 4,300 units in the same period, leaving it third behind the Ranger and even behind Mitsubishi’s Triton.
The launch of the 2026 Hilux could rewrite that story. Analysts from Znews predict the VND 706 million Pro trim will become the sales driver, potentially narrowing the gap with the Triton. However, the broader shift toward low‑emission zones (LEZ) in major Vietnamese cities may challenge the diesel‑only offering, even though the new engine meets Euro 5 standards.
Conclusion
The 2026 Toyota Hilux brings a striking visual makeover, a more powerful 2.8 L diesel, and a suite of safety technologies that were previously reserved for premium models. While Ford Ranger remains the market heavyweight, the Hilux’s aggressive pricing and upgraded capabilities could create a genuine ripple in Vietnam’s pickup segment.
Will the new Hilux topple the Ranger’s dominance? Only time – and the next sales figures – will tell.