Discover how the all‑new 2026 Toyota Hilux, with a 2.8L diesel engine and advanced safety tech, aims to challenge the Ford Ranger’s dominance in Vietnam’s pickup market. Read more now!
After months of speculation, Toyota has officially launched the 2026 Hilux in Vietnam. The new model is offered in three trims – Standard (VND 632 million), Pro (VND 706 million) and the top‑spec Trailhunter (VND 903 million) – all powered by a turbocharged 2.8‑liter diesel engine.
Bold New Looks and Rugged Design
From the front, the 2026 Hilux looks younger and sportier while retaining the muscular silhouette that has defined the pickup for decades. A 3‑D perforated grille, reminiscent of the Corolla Cross, dominates the nose, and sleek Bi‑LED projector headlights sit alongside thin daytime running lights. The large “Toyota” lettering on the bumper and a prominent badge on the rear deck give the truck a confident, brand‑centric presence.
The body stretches over 5 m in length, with fresh 17‑inch alloy wheels on the Pro trim and 18‑inch wheels on the Trailhunter. Black exterior accents, new step designs and a longer wheelbase (3,085 mm) contribute to a more commanding stance.
Interior Comfort and Technology
Inside, the cabin follows a “strong and flexible” philosophy. The Pro and Trailhunter trims feature a 12.3‑inch central infotainment screen paired with a 12‑inch digital instrument cluster placed behind the steering wheel. Leather‑upholstered seats with 10‑way electric adjustments are standard on the Trailhunter.
Safety gets a major upgrade with Toyota Safety Sense – a suite that includes pre‑collision warning, lane‑departure alert, blind‑spot monitoring, rear cross‑traffic alert, automatic emergency braking and a 360‑degree camera. The Trailhunter also receives hill‑start assist and a multi‑terrain select (MTS) system, marking the first time this technology appears on a Hilux.
Powertrain: 2.8‑L Turbo Diesel Takes Center Stage
The outgoing 2.4‑L diesel is replaced by a 2.8‑L turbocharged unit delivering 201 hp and up to 500 Nm of torque, paired with either a six‑speed manual or a six‑speed automatic transmission. This powerplant meets Euro 5 emissions standards, ensuring the Hilux can operate in low‑emission zones (LEZ) for the foreseeable future.
Pricing Against the Competition
At VND 632‑903 million, the 2026 Hilux is the most affordable midsize pickup in Vietnam. By comparison, the Ford Ranger – the market leader – starts at VND 707 million and can exceed VND 1.04 billion for higher‑spec models. The Mitsubishi Triton ranges from VND 655‑924 million and the Isuzu D‑Max from VND 650‑880 million.
This price advantage, combined with a robust 2.8‑L engine that few rivals offer, positions the Hilux as a compelling alternative for buyers who value diesel torque without the premium price tag.
Market Share Landscape
In 2025, the Ford Ranger captured roughly 69 % of Vietnam’s pickup sales (18,692 units), while all other brands together sold just 8,401 units. Toyota’s Hilux fell to third place, behind the Ranger and even the Mitsubishi Triton (4,303 units). The question now is whether the 2026 refresh can reverse that trend.
Potential Upside and Challenges
The Pro trim, priced at VND 706 million, is expected to become the sales backbone for the new Hilux line. Its blend of price, power and technology should attract both fleet buyers and private owners seeking a reliable workhorse.
However, the growing push for cleaner mobility in Vietnamese megacities could pressure diesel‑only models. While the Hilux meets Euro 5 standards, consumer sentiment is gradually shifting toward hybrid and electric alternatives, which may affect long‑term demand.
Conclusion: A Real Chance to Shake Up the Segment?
The 2026 Toyota Hilux arrives with a fresh look, a stronger engine, and a suite of safety technologies that put it on a more even footing with the dominant Ford Ranger. Its aggressive pricing makes it the most accessible midsize pickup on the market today.
Whether this translates into a meaningful share‑gain will depend on how quickly Toyota can address evolving emission regulations and consumer appetite for greener powertrains. For now, the Hilux offers a tantalizing “value‑for‑money” proposition that could spark a genuine competition in Vietnam’s pickup arena.
