Toyota Hilux Is the Best-Selling Vehicle In Australia

January 19 2024, by Alex Gan, 14 min reading time

If you are looking for a vehicle that can handle any terrain, weather, or task, you might want to consider the Toyota Hilux. The Hilux is a ute, or a utility vehicle, that combines the features of a passenger car and a truck. It has a cabin that can seat up to five people, and a tray that can carry loads of up to one tonne. The Hilux is also equipped with a powerful engine, a robust chassis, and a four-wheel-drive system that can tackle any off-road challenge.

The Hilux is not only a versatile and capable vehicle, but also a popular and successful one. In fact, the Hilux is the best-selling vehicle in Australia, according to the latest sales figures from the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries. The Hilux sold 61,111 units in 2023, beating its closest rival, the Ford Ranger, by more than 2000 units. The Hilux has been the best-selling vehicle in Australia for five out of the last six years, and the best-selling ute for 15 consecutive years.

But what makes the Toyota Hilux so popular in Australia? How does it compare to its rivals in the market? And what are the different variants and features of the Hilux that suit different needs and preferences? In this article, we will answer these questions and more, and help you decide if the Toyota Hilux is the right vehicle for you.

What makes the Toyota Hilux so popular in Australia?

The Toyota Hilux has a long and proud history in Australia, dating back to 1971, when the first-generation model was introduced. Since then, the Hilux has evolved and improved over eight generations, becoming one of the most trusted and respected vehicles in the country. Some of the factors that make the Toyota Hilux so popular in Australia are:

Reliability and durability

The Toyota Hilux is renowned for its reliability and durability, as it can withstand harsh and demanding conditions, and last for a long time. The Hilux is built with high-quality materials and components, and undergoes rigorous testing and inspection, to ensure its performance and safety. The Hilux is also backed by Toyota's reputation and warranty, which provide peace of mind and support to the owners. The Hilux has proven its reliability and durability in various situations and environments, such as the Australian Outback, the Antarctic, and even the war zones of Afghanistan and Iraq.

Versatility and practicality

The Toyota Hilux is a versatile and practical vehicle, as it can serve multiple purposes and functions, and adapt to different lifestyles and preferences. The Hilux can be used as a family car, a work vehicle, a recreational vehicle, or a combination of all. The Hilux can also be customized and accessorized, to suit different needs and tastes. The Hilux has a spacious and comfortable cabin, that can accommodate up to five passengers, and offer various features and technologies, such as air conditioning, cruise control, infotainment system, and safety systems. The Hilux also has a large and flexible tray, that can carry various loads and items, such as tools, equipment, luggage, furniture, or even a camper trailer.

Performance and capability

The Toyota Hilux is a performance and capability vehicle, as it can deliver power, speed, and efficiency, and handle any terrain, weather, or challenge. The Hilux is equipped with a 2.8-litre turbo-diesel engine, that can produce up to 150kW of power and 500Nm of torque, and can tow up to 3500kg of braked trailer. The Hilux also has a four-wheel-drive system, that can switch between two-wheel-drive and four-wheel-drive modes, and offer various driving modes, such as Eco, Normal, Power, and Sport. The Hilux also has a range of off-road features, such as a rear differential lock, hill-start assist, downhill assist, traction control, and stability control, that can enhance its grip, balance, and control.

How does the Toyota Hilux compare to its rivals in Australia?

The Toyota Hilux is not the only ute in the Australian market, as it faces competition from other brands and models, such as the Ford Ranger, the Mitsubishi Triton, and the Isuzu D-Max. How does the Hilux compare to these rivals in terms of price, features, and performance? Here is a brief overview of each rival, and how they stack up against the Hilux.

Ford Ranger

The Ford Ranger is the closest rival to the Toyota Hilux, as it is the second-best-selling vehicle in Australia, and the only one that has managed to outsell the Hilux in 2023[^2^][2]. The Ranger is a modern and stylish ute, that offers a range of variants and features, such as the Wildtrak, the Raptor, and the FX4. The Ranger is also equipped with a 2.0-litre bi-turbo diesel engine, that can produce up to 157kW of power and 500Nm of torque, and can tow up to 3500kg of braked trailer. The Ranger also has a four-wheel-drive system, that can offer various driving modes, such as Normal, Grass/Gravel/Snow, Mud/Sand, and Rock. The Ranger also has a range of off-road features, such as a rear differential lock, hill descent control, hill launch assist, and terrain management system.

The Ranger has some advantages over the Hilux, such as a more refined and responsive engine, a smoother and quieter ride, and a more advanced and user-friendly infotainment system. However, the Ranger also has some disadvantages, such as a higher price, a lower fuel efficiency, and a less reliable and durable reputation.

Mitsubishi Triton

The Mitsubishi Triton is another rival to the Toyota Hilux, as it is the fourth-best-selling ute in Australia, and the seventh-best-selling vehicle overall[^2^][2]. The Triton is a value-for-money and easy-to-drive ute, that offers a range of variants and features, such as the GLX, the GLS, and the GSR. The Triton is also equipped with a 2.4-litre turbo-diesel engine, that can produce up to 133kW of power and 430Nm of torque, and can tow up to 3100kg of braked trailer. The Triton also has a four-wheel-drive system, that can offer various driving modes, such as 2H, 4H, 4HLc, and 4LLc. The Triton also has a range of off-road features, such as a rear differential lock, hill start assist, hill descent control, and off-road mode.

The Triton has some advantages over the Hilux, such as a lower price, a longer warranty, and a smaller turning circle. However, the Triton also has some disadvantages, such as a less powerful and efficient engine, a less spacious and comfortable cabin, and a less attractive and distinctive design.

Isuzu D-Max

The Isuzu D-Max is another rival to the Toyota Hilux, as it is the fifth-best-selling ute in Australia, and the ninth-best-selling vehicle overall[^2^][2]. The D-Max is a rugged and reliable ute, that offers a range of variants and features, such as the SX, the LS-U, and the X-Terrain. The D-Max is also equipped with a 3.0-litre turbo-diesel engine, that can produce up to 140kW of power and 450Nm of torque, and can tow up to 3500kg of braked trailer. The D-Max also has a four-wheel-drive system, that can offer various driving modes, such as 2H, 4H, and 4L. The D-Max also has a range of off-road features, such as a rear differential lock, hill start assist, hill descent control.

What are the different variants and features of the Toyota Hilux in Australia?

The Toyota Hilux offers a range of variants and features in Australia, to cater to different needs and preferences. Here is a brief overview of each variant, and what they offer.

Workmate

The Workmate is the entry-level and most affordable variant of the Hilux, starting from $23,590. The Workmate is designed for work and utility purposes, and comes with a 2.7-litre petrol engine or a 2.4-litre turbo-diesel engine, and a manual or automatic transmission. The Workmate also comes with a single cab, extra cab, or double cab configuration, and a cab chassis or pick-up body type. The Workmate has basic features and technologies, such as air conditioning, cruise control, power windows, Bluetooth, USB, and a 6.1-inch touchscreen.

SR

The SR is the mid-range and most popular variant of the Hilux, starting from $32,490. The SR is designed for versatility and practicality, and comes with a 2.8-litre turbo-diesel engine, and a manual or automatic transmission. The SR also comes with a single cab, extra cab, or double cab configuration, and a cab chassis or pick-up body type. The SR has more features and technologies than the Workmate, such as a 7-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, satellite navigation, reversing camera, and a 4.2-inch multi-information display.

SR5

The SR5 is the high-end and premium variant of the Hilux, starting from $49,490. The SR5 is designed for performance and comfort, and comes with a 2.8-litre turbo-diesel engine, and a manual or automatic transmission. The SR5 also comes with a double cab configuration, and a pick-up body type. The SR5 has more features and technologies than the SR, such as LED headlights, fog lights, and daytime running lights, 18-inch alloy wheels, keyless entry and start, dual-zone climate control, leather-accented seats, and a 8-inch touchscreen.

Rogue

The Rogue is a special and exclusive variant of the Hilux, starting from $68,990. The Rogue is designed for style and sophistication, and comes with a 2.8-litre turbo-diesel engine, and an automatic transmission. The Rogue also comes with a double cab configuration, and a pick-up body type. The Rogue has more features and technologies than the SR5, such as a unique front grille, bumper, and fender flares, a hard tonneau cover, a sports bar, a tow bar, heated front seats, and a 9-speaker JBL sound system.

Rugged

The Rugged is a special and exclusive variant of the Hilux, starting from $64,490. The Rugged is designed for adventure and durability, and comes with a 2.8-litre turbo-diesel engine, and a manual or automatic transmission. The Rugged also comes with a double cab configuration, and a pick-up body type. The Rugged has more features and technologies than the SR5, such as a heavy-duty steel front bar, a snorkel, a bash plate, a recovery point, rock rails, a tow bar, and a 220V power outlet.

Rugged X

The Rugged X is a special and exclusive variant of the Hilux, starting from $69,990. The Rugged X is designed for extreme and challenging conditions, and comes with a 2.8-litre turbo-diesel engine, and a manual or automatic transmission. The Rugged X also comes with a double cab configuration, and a pick-up body type. The Rugged X has more features and technologies than the Rugged, such as a LED light bar, a winch-compatible hoopless steel front bar, a tub liner, and a load-rated sports bar.

GR Sport

The GR Sport is a special and exclusive variant of the Hilux, starting from $66,490. The GR Sport is designed for sportiness and agility, and comes with a 2.8-litre turbo-diesel engine, and an automatic transmission. The GR Sport also comes with a double cab configuration, and a pick-up body type. The GR Sport has more features and technologies than the SR5, such as a unique front grille, bumper, and decals, a sports suspension, 17-inch alloy wheels, a sports bar, and a GR-branded interior.

Conclusion

The Toyota Hilux is the best-selling vehicle in Australia, and for good reasons. The Hilux is a reliable, versatile, and capable ute, that can handle any terrain, weather, or task. The Hilux also offers a range of variants and features, that suit different needs and preferences. Whether you are looking for a work, family, recreational, or adventure vehicle, the Hilux has something for you. If you are interested in buying the Toyota Hilux, you can visit the Toyota Australia website, or your nearest Toyota dealer, and find the best deal for you.

FAQs

How much does the Toyota Hilux cost in Australia?

The Toyota Hilux has a wide range of prices in Australia, depending on the variant, features, and accessories. The cheapest model is the Workmate single cab chassis 4x2, which starts from $23,590. The most expensive model is the Rugged X double cab pick-up 4x4, which starts from $69,990. The average price of the Toyota Hilux in Australia is around $45,000.

How fuel-efficient is the Toyota Hilux in Australia?

The Toyota Hilux has a moderate fuel efficiency in Australia, depending on the engine, transmission, and drive type. The most fuel-efficient model is the Workmate single cab chassis 4x2, which has a combined fuel consumption of 7.1L/100km. The least fuel-efficient model is the Rugged X double cab pick-up 4x4, which has a combined fuel consumption of 8.4L/100km. The average fuel consumption of the Toyota Hilux in Australia is around 8.0L/100km.

How safe is the Toyota Hilux in Australia?

The Toyota Hilux has a high safety rating in Australia, according to the Australasian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP). The Hilux scored five out of five stars in the ANCAP crash test, which evaluates the vehicle’s performance in various scenarios, such as frontal offset, side impact, pole impact, and whiplash. The Hilux also has a range of safety features and technologies, such as airbags, anti-lock brakes, electronic brakeforce distribution, brake assist, vehicle stability control, traction control, trailer sway control, lane departure alert, pre-collision system, road sign assist, and adaptive cruise control.

How to maintain and service the Toyota Hilux in Australia?

The Toyota Hilux requires regular maintenance and service in Australia, to ensure its optimal performance and longevity. The Hilux should be serviced every six months or 10,000km, whichever comes first, according to the Toyota Service Advantage program. The Hilux should also be checked and inspected for any issues or problems, such as oil level, tire pressure, fluid level, battery condition, and brake condition, before and after each off-road trip. The Hilux should also be cleaned and washed, especially the underbody, to remove any dirt, mud, or debris, that might cause corrosion or damage.

Where to buy the Toyota Hilux in Australia?

There are many places where you can buy the Toyota Hilux in Australia, both online and offline. Some of the factors that you should consider when buying the Hilux are the availability, price, warranty, and service of the sellers. Some of the places where you can buy the Hilux are:

Toyota Australia. Toyota Australia is the official and authorized dealer of the Toyota Hilux in Australia. Toyota Australia offers a wide range of models, colours, and options, as well as competitive prices, finance, and insurance. Toyota Australia also offers a five-year or unlimited kilometre warranty, and a capped-price service plan, for the Hilux.
CarSales. CarSales is one of the largest and most popular online marketplaces for cars in Australia. CarSales offers a huge selection of new and used Hiluxes, from private sellers and dealers. CarSales also offers car reviews, ratings, and comparisons, as well as tools and calculators, to help you find the best deal for the Hilux.
Gumtree. Gumtree is one of the leading and most trusted online classifieds platforms in Australia. Gumtree offers a variety of Hiluxes, from new to old, from cheap to expensive, from stock to modified. Gumtree also allows you to contact and negotiate with the sellers directly, and arrange for inspection and delivery of the Hilux.