Is the Toyota Hilux gas or diesel?

The short answer: The Hilux is primarily diesel-powered; gasoline engines are not the standard in modern models and are only offered in a few markets or older generations.

The Toyota Hilux is a global pickup renowned for its durability and torque-rich diesel options. This article explains how engine choices differ by region, what to expect in current models, and how to verify the powertrain when shopping.

Current powertrain landscape

Here is a quick snapshot of the typical engine options you’ll encounter in today’s Hilux, depending on market. Diesel engines are dominant; petrol variants exist only in select markets or historical models.

• Diesel is the default powertrain in most Hilux models sold today.


• Gasoline (petrol) versions are rare in new Hilux models and are mostly found in older generations or specific regional markets.


• Electrified options are not available in the Hilux lineup as of 2024, with no official hybrid or plug-in option offered by Toyota for the Hilux in most markets.

In practice, buyers prioritizing payload, towing, and long-term durability typically choose diesel; petrol versions are generally lighter and cheaper to purchase but offer less torque and higher fuel consumption in heavy work. The following regional breakdown explains where you’re most likely to find diesel versus petrol.

Regional availability

Asia-Pacific

In the Asia-Pacific region, the Hilux is overwhelmingly diesel-powered. Turbocharged four-cylinder diesel engines are common across trim levels because of higher torque and efficiency for work and off-road use. Petrol variants were offered in the past in some markets, but in the current generation they are seldom found outside niche configurations.

Europe

Europe has traditionally favored diesel pickups for efficiency and torque in towing scenarios. The Hilux sold in Europe is primarily diesel; petrol options are not typical in the latest generation, and there is limited to no availability of gasoline-only trims in most markets.

Africa and the Middle East

Diesel power is widely preferred for durability and fuel availability. In many African and Middle Eastern markets, the Hilux is offered almost exclusively with diesel engines, with petrol versions limited to older stock or special orders.

North America

As of 2025, Toyota does not sell the Hilux in the United States or Canada; the North American market uses the Toyota Tacoma instead. Consequently, there is no current Hilux diesel or petrol option in those markets. In other regions, diesel remains the standard configuration.

Buying considerations

Before choosing a Hilux, consider these points about powertrains to ensure you get the right engine for your needs.

• Verify which engine is offered in your country for the specific trim or generation you are considering, as availability can vary by market and year.


• Consider towing and payload needs: diesel typically offers higher torque and better efficiency for heavy loads, while petrol might feel brisker in light-duty use.


• Check fuel availability and long-term maintenance costs in your area, as diesel fuel and servicing can differ from petrol.


• Note that electrified options such as hybrids are not standard on the Hilux in most markets as of the current model year.

In short, the Hilux is predominantly diesel, with gasoline options present only in limited cases. Always verify the exact engine specification for your local market and the exact model year you’re considering.

Summary

The Toyota Hilux is essentially a diesel-first pickup. Gasoline versions exist only in select markets and older generations, while modern Hilux models in most regions are diesel-powered. For buyers in North America, the Hilux is not sold; the Tacoma is the counterpart. When shopping, confirm the regional engine option on the exact vehicle you’re considering, and weigh diesel’s torque and efficiency against petrol’s price and availability.

Is a Toyota Hilux a diesel?

Yes, the Toyota Hilux is a diesel-powered truck, though some models may also offer petrol or hybrid options depending on the market and year. Most new models are equipped with a 2.8-liter turbo-diesel engine, sometimes supplemented with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system for added boost. 
Engine and performance

• Engine: The Hilux typically features a 2.8-liter four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine. 
• Horsepower and torque: Output varies by specific model, but can be up to 204 PS and 500 Nm of torque. Some performance-oriented versions, like the GR Sport, can have higher figures. 
• Mild-hybrid system: Some newer models include a 48-volt mild-hybrid system that adds a temporary power boost, especially in high-load situations like towing. 
• Towing: The diesel engine's torque makes it well-suited for towing, with many models offering a 3.5-tonne braked towing capacity. 

Availability

• Global market: The Hilux is sold in numerous markets outside of the United States, where it is often a diesel-powered vehicle. 
• United States: The Hilux is not officially sold in the US market to avoid competing with the Toyota Tacoma, which occupies that segment. 
• Other options: While diesel is the dominant engine, other options like petrol and hybrid powertrains are available in certain markets and model years. 

This video provides a detailed review of the new Toyota Hilux, highlighting its diesel engine and mild-hybrid system: 59sBuckle UpYouTube · Jun 22, 2025

What fuel does the Toyota Hilux use?

The Toyota Hilux is available with both diesel and petrol fuel types, though diesel is the more common option globally, especially for commercial and work-focused models. Newer models are also exploring alternative fuels like electric and hydrogen in some markets, notes CarBuzz. It's crucial to use the correct fuel type, as using petrol in a diesel-powered Hilux can cause significant engine damage, according to New Town Toyota.
 

• Diesel: This is the most common fuel type for the Hilux, often featuring in turbocharged and high-performance engines designed for work and off-road use. 
• Petrol: Some models, particularly in certain markets, are available with petrol engines, including V6 options. 
• Other options: Future models may include mild-hybrid, electric, and fuel cell powertrains. 

Important Note: Always check the specific model and market to confirm the correct fuel type. Using petrol in a diesel engine can cause serious damage.

Is the Hilux a gas or diesel engine?

One of the key aspects when choosing a Hilux is its power and performance. Diesel engines are often seen as more powerful than petrol engines due to their higher torque output at lower RPMs. This makes diesel Hilux models particularly well-suited for Heavy-duty tasks - Towing, hauling, and off-road driving.

Why is the Hilux illegal in the US?

The Toyota Hilux is not sold in the US primarily due to the "Chicken Tax," a 25% tariff on imported light trucks that makes it financially impractical. Additionally, the Hilux was not originally designed to meet the US's stricter safety, emissions, and fuel economy standards. Toyota also created the US-specific Toyota Tacoma to meet American market preferences for more features and comfort, and to avoid tariffs on vehicles produced in the US.
 
Reasons the Toyota Hilux isn't sold in the US 

• The "Chicken Tax": This 25% tariff on imported light trucks was enacted in 1964 and makes it too expensive to import the Hilux and sell it competitively in the US. 
• Different market and design: Toyota developed the Tacoma specifically for the North American market, which has different tastes and needs than the global Hilux. The Tacoma is typically more spacious and includes more features and comfort options. 
• Safety and emissions standards: The Hilux was not designed to meet the US's strict Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) or EPA emissions regulations. Re-engineering the truck to meet these standards would be costly and time-consuming. 
• Market competition: Toyota already has a successful mid-size truck in the US with the Tacoma and doesn't want the Hilux to compete with its own product.