2026 Toyota HiLux caught on camera: First spy photos of next-gen ute

The next-generation 2026 Toyota HiLux has been caught testing for the first time in Thailand – where it is developed and built – ahead of the first showroom arrivals due later this year or early next year.

But as suggested in overseas reports, it appears to be a heavy facelift of the current HiLux – which dates back to 2015 – rather than an all-new ute designed from the ground up.

Spy photos captured by Sank Ritthiphon Saiyaphrom for Thai website HeadlightMag show Toyota has not bothered to camouflage the doors and structure of the passenger cabin as they are the same as the current model.

MORE: New 2026 Toyota HiLux – first details, release date for next-generation ute in report

There is a new front end – with sharper headlights and a smaller, more rectangular grille – as well as a restyled tail, including new wheel-arch panels and tail-lights, and fresh alloy wheels.

While the new HiLux will be distinguishable from its predecessor on the road, the decision to update the old model rather than start fresh will place Toyota on the back foot against far-fresher rivals from Ford, Mitsubishi, Nissan and Kia.

It would follow other new Toyota models – such as the latest Camry sedan – which share body panels and underpinnings with their predecessors.

Reports suggest the 2.8-litre turbo-diesel four-cylinder engine will carry over to the new model, though HeadlightMag speculates there may be engineering changes to improve its emissions.

MORE: New Toyota HiLux trademark may be first official hint at next-generation model

The carry-over platform and footprint dash any hope of adding a turbo-diesel V6 to the range to rival the Ford Ranger and VW Amarok.

It remains to be seen if rear disc brakes are fitted, an upgrade introduced with the 'wide-track' HiLux Rogue and GR Sport variants from 2022, alongside substantial suspension changes and a wider footprint.

These could be standardised across the range – or at least flow down to popular variants such as the SR5 – to help amortise the cost of their development.

One spy photo published by HeadlightMag shows the vehicle with a rear door open, but it is hard to get a clear view inside the cabin.

Upgrades to the interior design and technology are likely – as these are weaknesses of the current HiLux against newer rivals – but the carry-over cabin structure means interior space will remain unchanged.

HeadlightMag speculates electric power steering may be added, which would unlock more advanced lane-centring assist technology to match the Ranger, Amarok and other competitors.

Toyota recently applied for the HiLux Travo trademark in Thailand, expected to be the name given to the ute in that market, where the current model is badged HiLux Revo.