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How much weight can you put in a Hilux?

The payload capacity of a Toyota Hilux is typically around 1,000 kg (about 2,200 lb), though exact figures vary by model year, trim, and drivetrain. Always check the door jamb placard for your vehicle’s precise rating.


The payload you can carry is the maximum combined weight of passengers and cargo that the vehicle can safely accommodate. It is determined by the vehicle’s GVWR (gross vehicle weight rating) minus its curb weight, with regional specs and optional equipment able to shift the exact figure. Overloading the Hilux can affect braking, handling, tire wear, and overall safety, so it’s important to load within the official limits and distribute weight properly.

Payload basics and what changes it


The official payload you can carry depends on several factors. The following list outlines the main considerations:



  • Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) and curb weight for your exact model and market.

  • Number and total weight of occupants (passengers).

  • Cargo weight and how it’s distributed, including items in the bed, canopy, toolbox, and other equipment.

  • Aftermarket equipment or added options that increase vehicle weight.

  • Axle load limits and tire load ratings, which cap load on each axle and can limit practical payload.

  • Dynamic factors such as braking distance, steering response, and stability when loaded near or at the limit.


Bottom line: payload equals GVWR minus the vehicle’s curb weight, accounting for occupants and cargo. For exact numbers, consult your vehicle’s labeling and owner's manual.


How to calculate your Hilux payload


To determine the safe payload for your exact truck, follow these steps:



  1. Find the GVWR on the doorjamb placard or in the owner's manual for your specific market and trim.

  2. Find the curb weight of your vehicle in the same source or from official specifications.

  3. Subtract curb weight from GVWR to obtain the maximum payload capacity.

  4. Estimate the weight of occupants and cargo you plan to carry, and ensure the total does not exceed the payload figure.

  5. Distribute loads evenly across the front and rear axles and verify that you do not exceed any axle or tire load ratings.


Applying these steps helps ensure you stay within safe operating limits and maintain vehicle performance and safety. When in doubt, weigh the vehicle with a representative load or consult a dealer for guidance.


Typical payload ranges by market


Payload figures vary by market, configuration, and trim level. General guidance observed across common Hilux configurations is:



  • Typical payload around 1,000–1,200 kg (approximately 2,200–2,650 lb) depending on variant and equipment.

  • GVWR commonly falls in the high 2,700–3,000 kg range in many markets; exact numbers depend on spec.

  • Aftermarket additions (canopies, racks, heavy bull bars, etc.) reduce available payload if not accounted for in the rating.


Always verify the exact figures on your vehicle’s labeling and in the owner's manual, as regional specifications can shift the payload and GVWR values.


Summary


In practical terms, a Toyota Hilux can typically carry about a tonne of payload, but the precise limit depends on model year, market, trim, and any added equipment. To stay safe and compliant, check the door jamb GVWR, subtract the curb weight to obtain payload, account for occupants and cargo, and distribute weight evenly across the vehicle. When loading, err on the side of caution and consult a dealer or the official manual if you’re unsure.

What is the cargo capacity of the Hilux?


The Toyota Hilux load capacity varies significantly by model and region, with a maximum payload typically ranging from about 860860860 kg to 1,1151 comma 1151,115 kg, and a maximum towing capacity of up to 3,5003 comma 5003,500 kg. For example, a single cab model can have a payload capacity of 1,1151 comma 1151,115 kg, while a double cab version might have a payload of up to 1,0851 comma 0851,085 kg. 
Key figures

  • Maximum Payload: Varies, but can be as high as 1,1151 comma 1151,115 kg on some single cab models. 
  • Towing Capacity: Up to 3,5003 comma 5003,500 kg (7,716 lbs) for most models, though some double cab versions might be rated slightly lower. 
  • Payload varies by configuration: 
    • Single Cab: High load capacity, often around 1,0001 comma 0001,000 kg to 1,1151 comma 1151,115 kg. 
    • Double Cab: Generally a lower payload, with figures around 1,0501 comma 0501,050 kg to 1,0851 comma 0851,085 kg. 
  • Important note: Always check the specific model and owner's manual for your vehicle to confirm its exact load capacity, as it can be affected by factors like year, engine, and specific trim level. 



How much weight can you put in the back of a Hilux?


Toyota ute towing and payload capacity

Toyota modelEngineMaximum payload
Hilux 4×2 Hi-Rider diesel (Workmate, SR, SR5)110kW/400Nm 2.4-litre turbo-diesel four1005-1235kg
Hilux Workmate 4×4110kW/400Nm 2.4-litre turbo-diesel four940-1250kg
Hilux 4×4 manual (SR, SR5)150kW/420Nm 2.8-litre turbo-diesel four940-1225kg



How much weight can a Hilux carry?


For example, a 2017 Toyota Hilux SR5 4X4 Double Cab Pickup has a GVM of 3000kg - meaning you can load 3 tonnes of passengers, luggage, bull bars and fuel and operate the vehicle safely and normally.



What is the carrying capacity of the 2019 Toyota Hilux?


To that end, the Toyota HiLux Workmate 4x2 single-cab/chassis on test here has a maximum payload of 1240kg, and while its braked towing limit is 2500kg – a tonne below that of many of the heavy hitters in the broader ute category – it comes with far more palatable pricing.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.