Toyota Hilux is one of the capable pick-up trucks from the House of Japanese carmakers. The carmaker currently offers a slew of hybrid cars such as the Innova Hycross, Camry, Vellfire, and Urban Cruiser Hyryder.
However, the above-mentioned cars boast a petrol hybrid engine. The upcoming Hilux and Fortuner will debut the diesel hybrid engine.
Toyota debuts the diesel hybrid concept at WRC Kenya
Toyota has recently unveiled its diesel hybrid prototype in the Hilux at WRC Kenya. The Diesel Hybrid version of the Hilux looks largely similar to the regular version. However, the carmaker has added some loud hybrid decals to stand out from the crowd. The new diesel hybrid powertrain was represented in the event by 4-times WRC Champion driver Mr. Juha Kankkunen. Supporting the WRC Champion driver was a local actor and media personality, Mr. Jimmy Gathu.
About the upcoming Toyota diesel hybrid engine
Currently, the Toyota Hilux and Fortuner are available with the 2.8L 1GD-FTV turbo diesel engine. This engine makes a whopping 201hp of power and 500nm of torque output. However, the hybrid diesel engine is mated to the self-charging 48V mild hybrid system known as MHEV. Also, this powertrain features a small ISG Start/Stop Motor. With this hybrid diesel powertrain, Toyota claims that fuel efficiency is gone up by 10%.
Both utility vehicles, including Fortuner and Hilux, have 43% duties. Out of which, the majority portion is contributed by the 28% GST and 15% CESS. With the debut of the diesel hybrid engine, we can expect that the taxes will be lowered on the Fortuner and Hilux in India. Furthermore, it is expected that the 2.4L 2GD-FTV diesel engine will also receive similar hybrid technology in the future, which powers the Innova Crysta.
Launch timeline and Opinion
Toyota will debut its diesel hybrid technology in 2024. Currently, the 2.8L diesel engine produces 201hp and up to 500nm of output. But with the hybrid technology, we can expect some significant gains in performance and efficiency. Moreover, the taxes are expected to be lowered with the new diesel hybrid technology. This will probably reduce the overall price of the Toyota Fortuner and Hilux in India.