Toyota South Africa Motors (TSAM) has officially started pilot production of the next-generation Hilux pickup at its Durban plant.
This development is highly relevant to Pakistan. South Africa is a major manufacturing hub for Toyota’s utility vehicles, and global updates there usually preview the changes that eventually arrive in Indus Motor Company’s (IMC) Pakistani lineup.
A $634 Million Upgrade
Toyota is investing 10.4 billion rand (roughly $634 million USD) to prepare its South African facilities for the new truck. The brand has already completed 77% of this massive plant upgrade.
Here is how that investment is being spent:
- Advanced Manufacturing
$440 million (Rs. 7.2 billion) is dedicated to new robotics, tooling, and high-tech manufacturing equipment.
- New Facilities
$195 million (Rs. 3.2 billion) is being used to build a new parts logistics center, a chassis treatment facility, and a modern chassis frame welding plant.
- Full Production Timeline
Commercial production of the new Hilux is scheduled to begin in June 2027, with an expected annual output of 140,000 units for local and export markets.
What to Expect From the New Hilux
While Toyota has not released official specifications during this pilot phase, the next-generation Hilux is expected to address the current model’s aging platform with several key updates:
- New Platform
The truck is expected to move to a modernized global platform shared with Toyota’s newer mid-size SUVs and trucks, improving ride quality and handling.
- Safer and Smarter Tech
Expect upgraded Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) and a completely redesigned interior with modern infotainment.
- Hybrid Powertrains
To meet stricter international emissions laws, Toyota is focusing on mild-hybrid or full-hybrid engine options alongside its traditional turbo-diesel engines.
The PakWheels Take
The current-generation Hilux Revo has been on Pakistani roads for a long time. While IMC recently introduced local updates like the Hilux Revo GR-S and mild-hybrid variants, the truck is fundamentally due for a complete redesign.
Whether or not we will see the new Hilux on local roads anytime soon, this South African pilot run is our first concrete look at the future of Pakistan’s favorite premium utility vehicle.
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