What is Toyota HiLux called in the USA?
In the United States, the Toyota HiLux is not sold under that name; the equivalent midsize pickup available to American buyers is the Toyota Tacoma. The HiLux is a global model known as Hilux in many markets outside the US, but Toyota's US lineup has long used Tacoma to meet local demand and regulatory requirements.
Background: HiLux and Tacoma in a global context
The Toyota HiLux (often called Hilux in markets such as Europe, Asia, Australia, and parts of Africa) is Toyota’s long-running global pickup. In the United States, however, Toyota has offered a distinct model—the Tacoma—since the mid-1990s. While the two vehicles share a family lineage and are built to compete in the same segment, they are developed and tuned for different regional markets.
How the US market names its pickups
To help readers understand the naming landscape, consider these points about how Toyota titles its pickups around the world:
- HiLux/Hilux is the global name for Toyota’s compact/midsize pickup family outside the United States; usage varies by country (HiLux in some markets, Hilux in others).
- Tacoma is the United States’ standalone midsize pickup, introduced in 1995 and adapted over the years to American tastes, regulations, and driving conditions.
- Both vehicles draw on a common lineage, but Tacoma is not simply a US-branded HiLux; it represents a model developed specifically for the US market with its own features and option packages.
In practical terms, when shopping in the US, you’ll encounter the Toyota Tacoma rather than a HiLux. The HiLux/Hilux name remains active in many other global markets as the designation for Toyota’s global pickup lineup.
Summary
The Toyota HiLux is not sold in the United States under that name; the US-market equivalent is the Toyota Tacoma. Globally, the HiLux/Hilux designation continues to identify Toyota’s pickup lineup outside the US, while Tacoma serves as the American counterpart tailored to U.S. buyers.
Is a Toyota Revo a Hilux?
The Hilux Revo is powered by a 2.8 L or 2.4 L diesel engine that is optimally tuned to realise superb power and excellent fuel efficiency.
Is the Toyota Tundra the same as a Hilux?
Not surprisingly, the Tundra trumps the HiLux with its superior towing capability – 4.3 versus the HiLux's 2.5 tonne. The American pick-up also comes equipped with a tow pack, as well as Trailer Sway Control and a Tow transmission mode.
Is a Hilux just a Tacoma?
The main difference between Hilux and Tacoma lies in their market focus and availability. The Hilux is a global workhorse designed for commercial use with diesel engine options, superior towing capacity (3,500kg), and utilitarian design. It's available worldwide except in the US.
Can you get a Toyota Hilux in the USA?
No, you cannot buy a new Toyota Hilux from a dealership in the USA, as it has not been sold there since the mid-1990s. The Toyota Tacoma is sold in the US as its equivalent. While it is not officially available, you can legally import a Hilux that is over 25 years old or one that is specially modified and certified to meet US regulations.
Why you can't buy a new one
- Market replacement: Toyota replaced the Hilux in the US market with the Tacoma to better suit American consumer preferences.
- The Chicken Tax: The 25% tariff, known as the "Chicken Tax," was imposed on imported light trucks in the 1960s and made it economically unviable for Toyota to import the Hilux.
- US regulations: New models do not meet US safety and emissions standards, so they cannot be legally sold in the country without significant and costly modifications.
How to get one
- Import an older model: You can legally import a Hilux that is at least 25 years old. For example, older models are available for import from other countries.
- Import a new model: It is possible to import a new Hilux, but it is an expensive and difficult process. You will have to pay a 25% tariff and comply with US Department of Transportation (DOT) and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulations, which can be a major challenge.
- Buy from a specialty importer: Some companies specialize in importing and modifying vehicles for the US market.
Alternative
- Buy a Toyota Tacoma: If you want a new Toyota pickup, the Tacoma is the American equivalent of the Hilux and is readily available at dealerships across the US.
