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Why cant we get Hilux in the USA?

The Toyota Hilux, a popular and rugged pickup truck sold globally, is not available for purchase in the United States. This is due to a combination of regulatory hurdles, market considerations, and strategic decisions by Toyota. While the Hilux has a strong following in many parts of the world, its absence from the American automotive landscape can be attributed to a few key factors.


Regulatory Challenges


One of the primary reasons the Hilux is not sold in the USA is the stringent safety and emissions regulations that govern the American automotive market. The Hilux, which is designed and engineered for global markets, may not fully comply with the specific requirements set forth by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Bringing the Hilux up to US standards would require significant modifications and additional development costs, which Toyota has deemed not financially viable.


Market Considerations


The US pickup truck market is highly competitive, with established players like the Ford F-150, Chevrolet Silverado, and Ram 1500 dominating the segment. Toyota already has a strong presence in the American pickup market with the Tacoma, which is tailored specifically for the US consumer. Introducing the Hilux, which is positioned as a more rugged and utilitarian option, could potentially cannibalize sales of the Tacoma, which is a key model in Toyota's US lineup.


Strategic Decisions


Toyota's decision to not bring the Hilux to the US market is also a strategic one. The company likely weighs the potential sales and profitability of the Hilux against the costs of homologating the vehicle to meet US regulations and the potential impact on its existing Tacoma sales. Given the competitive nature of the American pickup truck market, Toyota may have determined that the Hilux would not be a strong enough competitor to justify the investment required to introduce it in the US.


In summary, the absence of the Toyota Hilux in the United States is primarily due to a combination of regulatory hurdles, market considerations, and strategic decisions by the automaker. While the Hilux is a highly capable and popular pickup truck in many parts of the world, its unique characteristics and Toyota's existing presence in the US pickup segment have led the company to focus its efforts on other models for the American market.

Will Toyota ever sell the Hilux in the US?


As long as the Hilux is made outside North America, it's not going to happen, thanks to the chicken tax. Toyota does sell the Tacoma here, which is very similar to the Hilux, but it's tailored for the US market. The Tacoma has been the best-selling midsize truck for 20 years now.



Why is Toyota Hilux banned in US Reddit?


Short answer - tariffs make it expensive to bring over any light truck that isn't also domestically produced in North America. The Fortuner, while a SUV (and primarily designed to carry passengers), is on the Hilux platform.



Why is Hilux not allowed in the US?


The Toyota Hilux is not sold in the United States primarily due to regulatory and market reasons. Here are some key factors: Emission Standards: The Hilux is not designed to meet US emissions and safety standards, which are stricter than those in many other countries.



Can I bring a Toyota Hilux to USA?


For Hilux models that are not 25 years old, modifications may be required to meet U.S. emissions standards. Comply with Department of Transportation (DOT) Requirements: Submit DOT Form HS-7, indicating the vehicle's compliance with safety standards, or if it qualifies for an exemption.



Is there a Hilux in the US?


As long as the Hilux is produced outside of North America, it's unlikely to be sold here due to the well-known chicken tax. Instead, Toyota offers the Tacoma in the U.S., which is essentially the same vehicle as the Hilux but tailored to the North American market.



How much does a Toyota HiLux cost in US?


The Toyota HiLux is available from $26,475 to $75,310 for the 2025 range of models in Extra Cab, Dual Cab and Single Cab body types.



How much does a Toyota Hilux cost in US?


The Toyota HiLux is available from $26,475 to $75,310 for the 2025 range of models in Extra Cab, Dual Cab and Single Cab body types.



Can you import a Toyota Hilux from Mexico to 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.



How much does a Toyota Hilux cost in the US?


The Toyota HiLux is available from $26,475 to $75,310 for the 2025 range of models in Extra Cab, Dual Cab and Single Cab body types.



Can I import a Toyota Hilux to the USA?


Can I legally own a Toyota Hilux in the USA? 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.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.