2024 Toyota HiLux pricing revealed, 48-volt system dubbed V-Active Technology

Toyota Australia has confirmed small price premiums for the drivetrain-enhancing 48-volt technology that headlines the updated 2024 HiLux range.

The mega-selling ute will arrive in dealerships in March sporting revised frontal styling and extra features in addition to the 48V battery system dubbed V-Active Technology.

The tech that promises improved driveability, performance, and efficiency is optional on 4x4 automatic dual-cab and double-cab chassis versions of the HiLux SR, standard on the same variants of the SR5, and standard on the Rogue dual-cab.

Ticking the V-Active Technology box for the SR adds $1025 or $1605, respectively, over the regular versions of the double-cab chassis and double-cab pick-up.

The price of the SR5 double-cab chassis increases by $590, with the cost of the SR5 and Rogue dual-cabs both rising by $770.

The flagship GR Sport HiLux misses out on the tech.

The 48-volt system is paired to the HiLux’s familiar 150kW/500Nm 2.8-litre turbo-diesel four-cylinder, six-speed automatic transmission and 12-volt auxiliary battery.

Comprising a 48-volt battery, compact electric motor generator, and a DC/DC converter, Toyota says V-Active Technology will improve driveability, performance, fuel economy, and refinement of the 2.8-litre diesel.

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The company has chosen the V-Active moniker to preserve Hybrid badges for its array of vehicles that employ more extensive petrol-electric technology.

Toyota suggests fuel-savings of about 10 per cent are possible, helped primarily by a new engine stop-start system.

Distinctively, it features two settings, with Long mode keeping the engine shut off for an extended period over the Normal mode.

V-Active also lowers the engine's idling speed from 720 to 600rpm.

Official combined fuel consumption for 4x4 dual-cab versions of the SR, SR5 and Rogue using the standard 2.8L are 7.4, 8.0, and 8.4 litres per 100km, respectively.

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Variants fitted with 48-volt technology also benefit from a new MST (Multi-Terrain Select) dial, which sees the addition of six individual drive modes

The 48-volt option for the SR variant will be bundled with additional features, including dual-zone automatic climate control, keyless entry and push-button start, automatic up/down for the windows, and carpet floor mats.

The SR5, Rogue and GR Sport variants gain a wireless phone charger next to the gear shifter and two rear USB-C ports.

All SR variants – including those without the 48-volt option pack – now receive front and rear parking sensors.

In addition, all HiLux tubbed ute models have a new damping gas strut to make opening and closing the tailgate easier.

Toyota Australia has confirmed the new HiLux will retain its existing infotainment system with wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

This is despite the addition of a new infotainment system for European-market HiLuxes with wireless Apple CarPlay, connected satellite navigation, natural voice control, and separate driver profiles.

External revisions for the 2024 Toyota HiLux are limited to diesel-powered dual-cab models, and include a revised front end with an octagon shape for the grille, a trapezoidal lower section and a ‘bolder’ outer bumper that houses the fog lamps for the SR5 variant.

WorkMate diesel dual-cab variants include a new honeycomb mesh grille and a black lower and body-coloured side bumper finish.

Single-cab chassis and petrol dual-cab versions of the WorkMate retain the HiLux’s old styling that dates back to 2015 but receive a new black plastic finish for the bumper instead of dark grey.

SR models have a new silver lower-bumper finish, while the SR5 adds a black upper grille mould, dark-tinted headlight clusters, and gloss black trim for fog lamp bezels, side mirrors and exterior door handles.

Toyota Australia will be hoping the updates can help take the HiLux back to the top of the sales charts, after the arch-rival Ford Ranger ended its seven-year run in 2023.