Is Hilux better than Tacoma?
When it comes to reliable and rugged pickup trucks, the Toyota Hilux and Toyota Tacoma are two names that often come up in conversations. Both vehicles have earned a reputation for durability, off-road capability, and versatility. But which one is better? As the owner of Kevin's Autos, with years of experience in car maintenance and repair, I’ll break down the key differences to help you decide which truck might be the better fit for your needs.
Understanding the Toyota Hilux
The Toyota Hilux is a globally renowned pickup truck, known for its legendary toughness and reliability. It has been a staple in markets outside of North America for decades, often used in extreme conditions ranging from deserts to mountainous terrains. The Hilux is celebrated for its simplicity, durability, and ability to handle heavy-duty tasks.
- Engine Options: The Hilux offers a variety of diesel and gasoline engines, catering to different markets and needs. Diesel engines are particularly popular for their fuel efficiency and torque.
- Off-Road Capability: With features like locking differentials and robust suspension systems, the Hilux is built to tackle challenging terrains.
- Global Availability: The Hilux is sold in many countries worldwide, making it a favorite for international buyers.
Understanding the Toyota Tacoma
The Toyota Tacoma, on the other hand, is a favorite in the North American market. It combines ruggedness with modern features, making it a versatile choice for both work and play. The Tacoma is particularly popular among off-road enthusiasts and those looking for a midsize truck with a strong resale value.
- Engine Options: The Tacoma typically offers gasoline engines, including a 4-cylinder and a V6, providing a balance between power and efficiency.
- Off-Road Features: The Tacoma’s TRD (Toyota Racing Development) trims come equipped with advanced off-road technology, such as Crawl Control and Multi-Terrain Select.
- Comfort and Technology: The Tacoma boasts a more modern interior with features like touchscreen infotainment systems, smartphone integration, and advanced safety features.
Key Differences Between the Hilux and Tacoma
While both trucks share Toyota’s reputation for reliability, there are some notable differences:
- Market Focus: The Hilux is designed for global markets and often prioritizes durability and simplicity. The Tacoma, however, is tailored for the North American market, with a focus on comfort and advanced features.
- Engine Choices: The Hilux offers diesel options, which are not available in the Tacoma. Diesel engines are preferred for towing and fuel efficiency in many regions.
- Off-Roading: Both trucks excel off-road, but the Tacoma’s TRD trims provide more advanced off-road technology, while the Hilux relies on its rugged build and mechanical simplicity.
- Interior Features: The Tacoma generally has a more refined interior with modern tech, whereas the Hilux focuses on practicality and durability.
Which One Should You Choose?
The choice between the Toyota Hilux and Toyota Tacoma ultimately depends on your needs and location:
- If you’re looking for a truck that can handle extreme conditions, heavy-duty tasks, and prioritize durability, the Hilux is an excellent choice.
- If you’re based in North America and want a truck with modern features, off-road capability, and a comfortable interior, the Tacoma is likely the better option.
Both trucks are exceptional in their own right, and you can’t go wrong with either. At Kevin’s Autos, we’ve worked on countless trucks over the years, and both the Hilux and Tacoma have proven to be reliable and capable vehicles. If you’re still unsure, feel free to reach out to us for advice or to discuss your specific needs!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the US equivalent of the Hilux?
Tacoma
Since 1995, the 4Runner is a standalone SUV, while in the same year Toyota introduced the Tacoma to replace the Hilux pickup in North America.
Is it worth buying a Toyota Hilux?
The Toyota Hilux is an exceptional value car because of its fuel efficiency. Toyota Hilux mileage of the manual diesel variant is 12.6 kmpl whereas, the automatic diesel variant is 10 kmpl.
What are the disadvantages of Toyota Hilux?
Toyota Hilux Cons
- Sheer length (longer than even the Fortuner), heavy steering & large turning radius make it cumbersome in the city.
- Bumpy ride quality, especially at the rear (due to leaf springs)
- Expensive!
- Cost-cutting in a couple of areas; some interior plastics, ICE audio quality, camera display…
Can I buy a Toyota Hilux in the US?
Yes, you can legally own a Toyota Hilux in the USA, but there are specific conditions and regulations you must follow, especially regarding the importation of vehicles that are not originally manufactured for the U.S. market.
Why is the Toyota Hilux the best?
The Toyota Hilux excels with its pickup versatility and commanding road presence. Its strong pulling power and robust build ensure control while off-roading. Featuring a spacious five-seater cabin, it combines a reasonably feature-loaded interior with an indestructible build quality.
Is the Toyota Hilux the most reliable?
Toyota Hilux's have a excellent reliability rating of 871/999.
Which is better Toyota Hilux or Tacoma?
Compared with the Hilux, the Tacoma is engineered with a greater priority on ride quality, handling, comfort, and safety over ruggedness and payload capacity.
Why is Hilux not sold in the US?
Also, manufacturing the Hilux for the US in the US can be expensive. As a result, Toyota fears that the Hilux could emerge as a direct competitor to the Toyota Tacoma.
Why is Hilux not allowed in US?
The Toyota Hilux isn't sold directly in the USA primarily due to the "Chicken Tax," a 25% tariff imposed on light trucks imported into the United States. Additionally, market preferences and emission standards play a role in Toyota's decision to offer the Tacoma as the preferred light truck option in the U.S. market.
What is the common problem of Toyota Hilux?
While the Toyota Hilux pickup truck is known for its durability and reliability, it is not immune to common issues that may arise. Turbo problems, starting and misfiring issues, loss of power, crank seal oil leaks and 5th gear synchronisation problems are some of the most common problems faced by Toyota Hilux owners.
