Toyota Australia won’t rule out a plug-in hybrid HiLux as part of its new-generation lineup, having already confirmed diesel, battery electric and fuel-cell electric versions.
While it will offer the widest range of powertrains yet, the new HiLux won’t offer a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrain from launch – a key offering from arch-rival Ford Ranger and popular newcomer, the BYD Shark 6.
“You’d never rule it out,” said Toyota Australia vice president of sales and marketing, Sean Hanley, when asked if the company plans to add a HiLux PHEV to the lineup.
Toyota has confirmed a PHEV for the new generation of RAV4 SUV launching in Australia in 2026, in addition to HEV (non plug-in) versions.
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Asked if the lack of PHEV for HiLux was a missed opportunity, Mr Hanley was direct. “No, I don’t … the reason is ute [buyers] are pragmatic; people buy them largely for capability.”
“While I think plug-in hybrids are a technology of the future – there’s no doubt in the fullness of time we’ll probably bring that suite to HiLux – right now, we’re going down the full BEV [battery-electric vehicle] range and we’re going down the practical, fit-for-purpose route, which is what our customers desire.”
Toyota Australia has confirmed a BEV HiLux and a hydrogen fuel-cell electric vehicle (FCEV) version will join the new-generation lineup HiLux in 2028, which will be on sale with diesel engines from December 2025.
The Ford Ranger PHEV was introduced in June 2025 across three model grades, while the BYD Shark 6, available exclusively with a PHEV powertrain, has proved popular with more than 15,000 sales since its February 2025 launch.
“I kind of find it intriguing that we’re having a discussion about a car doing 1400 that’s brand new [the Shark 6], against a car that’s getting 10 years old doing over 4000 [outgoing HiLux, introduced in 2015],” said Mr Hanley.
The comments came as Volkswagen ruled out BEV and PHEV versions of its current Amarok dual-cab ute, which is twinned with the Ranger in a partnership between the two car companies.
The outgoing HiLux was the top-selling vehicle in Australia in October, with 4444 sales, ahead of the Ranger on 4402 – with the RAV4 a single unit behind on 4401.
The BYD Shark 6 PHEV sold 1070 to be the sixth-best selling ute this year, also behind the Isuzu D-Max, Mitsubishi Triton and Mazda BT-50.
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