Is Toyota Hilux Turbocharged?
Yes—the current Hilux lineup is dominated by turbocharged diesel engines in most markets, with a gasoline option available in some regions that is not turbocharged. Engine availability varies by country, trim level, and model year.
To understand what this means for buyers and drivers, it’s helpful to look at the diesel options that define the modern Hilux, how they’re paired to transmissions, and where non-turbo gasoline engines appear in the lineup. The specifics can differ by market, but the broad pattern is clear: turbocharged diesels are the default for the Hilux today, with petrol options limited to certain regions and older configurations.
Turbocharged diesel engines in the latest Hilux
Two turbo-diesel engines anchor the modern Hilux, each designed to balance work capability with efficiency. Below are the engines you’re most likely to encounter in new models.
Two main turbo-diesel engines
- 2.8-liter GD-FTV turbo-diesel (inline-4): A primary powerplant in many markets, typically delivering around 204 PS (approximately 150 kW) with torque near 500 Nm, depending on transmission and market.
- 2.4-liter GD-FTV turbo-diesel (inline-4): A smaller turbo option, commonly offering about 150 kW (roughly 204 PS) and around 400–420 Nm of torque, with variations by market and spec.
These turbo-diesel engines are designed to provide strong low-end torque for towing and off-road work while meeting evolving emissions standards across regions.
Transmission options and market availability
- Both diesel engines are paired with a choice of transmissions in many markets, including a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed automatic, with the automatic more common on higher trims.
- 4x4 drivetrains with selectable modes are typically offered with these engines, enhancing off-road capability and hauling performance.
Transmission and drivetrain configurations vary by country and model year, so buyers should check local specifications for precise availability.
Non-turbo or petrol options in certain markets
Not every Hilux variant uses a turbo-diesel engine. Some regions offer a petrol option, and older or lower-spec models can differ from the turbo-diesel norm.
Gasoline offering
- 2.7-liter petrol engine (commonly the 2TR-FE): This is a naturally aspirated engine, not turbocharged, and is used in a subset of markets. It typically provides lower torque and is aimed at drivers who prioritize smoother highway performance and lower up-front cost rather than peak towing capability.
Petrol variants are less common in recent global Hilux lineups than the turbo-diesel versions, and availability is highly market-specific.
Historical and regional notes
- Some older Hilux generations and regional markets offered different turbo-diesel or petrol configurations (for example, earlier 3.0-liter D-4D or other small-displacement diesels). These are not part of the current mainstream lineup in many regions but provide context for past ownership experiences.
Today’s focus remains on the turbocharged GD-FTV diesels and, in select markets, the gasoline 2.7-liter option—each tailored to local emissions, fuel available, and consumer demand.
Summary
The Toyota Hilux today is largely turbocharged in its diesel variants, with the 2.8-liter and 2.4-liter GD-FTV engines forming the core of the lineup in many regions. A naturally aspirated gasoline option (2.7-liter) is available in some markets, while others rely primarily on turbodiesel power for performance and efficiency. If you’re shopping, check the exact engine, transmission, and drivetrain configurations offered in your country and trim, as these details vary by market and model year.
What kind of engine is in a Toyota Hilux?
The Toyota Hilux uses a variety of engine types depending on the model year, market, and fuel. Common engines include diesel options like the 2.8L 1GD-FTV and older 3.0L 1KD-FTV, and gasoline options such as the 2.7L 2TR-FE and 4.0L 1GR-FE. Newer models are also offering hybrid and all-electric variants, while older models have used a range of smaller engines.
Common engine types
- Diesel:
- 1GD-FTV: A 2.8L, 4-cylinder turbo diesel engine, the standard for many recent models.
- 1KD-FTV: An older 3.0L diesel engine.
- 2.4L Diesel: Available in some models, particularly for lighter loads.
- Gasoline:
- 2TR-FE: A 2.7L, 4-cylinder gasoline engine, often with VVT-i.
- 1GR-FE: A larger 4.0L V6 gasoline engine.
- 1RZ-E: An older 2.0L, in-line 4-cylinder engine found in some earlier models.
- Newer variants:
- Hybrid: A new option for 2026 models, pairing a 2.8L turbo diesel with an electric motor.
- All-electric: A 2026 model year variant featuring dual electric motors and a 59.2 kWh battery.
- Older variants:
- A variety of older engines, including the 3L, 2L, 5L, and 2Y, were used in previous generations.
Does the Toyota Hilux have a turbo?
The Toyota Hilux features a responsive turbo-diesel engine that delivers power on demand.
Why is Hilux not allowed 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.
Is the V6 Hilux turbo?
The 3.4-litre twin-turbocharged V6 petrol engine, for one, places its turbochargers with one on each side of the engine close to the exhaust manifolds and uses electric wastegates to improve response.
