What is the fuel average of a Toyota Hilux?
The energy efficiency of the Toyota Hilux varies by engine, drivetrain and market. In general, diesel variants deliver better fuel economy, while petrol versions use more fuel. Exact figures depend on model year, specifications and driving conditions.
Engine options and their typical fuel economy
Below is a quick guide to typical fuel economy for common Hilux engine configurations, based on WLTP testing in markets where the model is sold. Figures are shown as combined consumption and are indicative; real-world results vary with load, driving style, and terrain.
Diesel 2.4 L (D-4D/2GD-FTV)
- WLTP combined: approximately 7.5–8.2 L/100km
- Equivalent: about 29–33 mpg UK
Diesel 2.8 L (GD-6)
- WLTP combined: about 7.8–9.0 L/100km
- Equivalent: about 26–34 mpg UK
Petrol 2.7 L (where available)
- WLTP combined: roughly 9.5–11.0 L/100km
- Equivalent: about 20–28 mpg UK
Note: Engine availability and exact figures vary by country and model year. In some markets, the Hilux uses older D-4D engines with slightly different numbers; newer GD-6 engines may show improved efficiency in real-world driving.
How drivetrain and driving style affect the numbers
The Hilux's fuel average is not fixed; it shifts with drivetrain choice, transmission, payload, and how you drive. The following factors have a measurable impact on real-world consumption.
- Drivetrain: 2WD (two-wheel drive) tends to be more fuel-efficient than 4WD, especially in highway cruising.
- Transmission: Manual gearboxes can be more efficient in skilled hands; automatics with modern gearing and efficiencies can improve on-campus figures.
- Load and payload: Heavier loads increase fuel consumption noticeably.
- Terrain and climate: Uphill driving, headwinds, and hot conditions raise fuel use.
These factors mean the real-world fuel economy you experience will often differ from official numbers by a few mpg or a few L/100km.
Notes on market availability
In the United States, Toyota does not sell the Hilux; the equivalent model for that market is the Toyota Tacoma, and official fuel economy is reported separately by the EPA. In other major markets, the Hilux is widely available with diesel engines as the standard setup, and petrol variants are limited to certain regions or trims.
How to maximize fuel efficiency with a Toyota Hilux
Want to squeeze more miles per gallon from your Hilux? Consider these practical steps that matter in real-world use.
- Keep tires inflated to the recommended pressure; under-inflation raises rolling resistance.
- Regular maintenance: clean air filters, oil changes, and proper engine tune-ups help efficiency.
- Plan trips to minimize idle time; use cruise control on highways when appropriate.
- Lighten loads and remove unnecessary roof racks when not needed, especially at highway speeds.
- Choose a drivetrain and transmission configuration that matches your typical use (2WD/manual for lighter duty, 4WD/automatic when carrying heavier loads or off-road).
Even with these measures, the Hilux will still be a capable workhorse; its aim is balanced performance and reliability rather than ultra-high efficiency.
Summary
The Toyota Hilux offers a range of engines and configurations that determine its fuel economy. Diesel variants generally deliver the best efficiency in the 7.5–9.0 L/100km range, while petrol variants sit higher around 9.5–11.0 L/100km. Real-world numbers depend on drivetrain, transmission, payload, and driving behavior, and regional availability may affect which engines are offered. In markets like the United States, the Hilux is not sold; the Tacoma serves as the local pickup, and its fuel economy is published separately by EPA. For buyers and owners, the key takeaway is that fuel efficiency on the Hilux is solid for a rugged pickup, but exact numbers require checking the specific model year and regional specifications.
