The 2024 Toyota HiLux V-Active introduces mild-hybrid technology to the popular ute, offering improved fuel efficiency and smoother operation in urban environments. While it maintains the HiLux's renowned reliability and off-road capability, some may find the improvements incremental and the overall package still lacking compared to more modern competitors.
7.5/10
CarExplore Overall Comparative Score
This score reflects the aggregated ratings from CarExpert (7.7/10), CarsGuide (7.5/10), and Drive (7.4/10), providing a comprehensive view of the Toyota HiLux V-Active's performance and value.
Quick Facts
- Price Range: $54,130 - $71,530 (plus on-road costs)
- ANCAP Safety Rating: Five stars (tested 2019)
- Fuel Efficiency (Claimed): 7.2L/100km (SR5 V-Active)
- Towing Capacity: 3500kg (braked)
Key Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.8L 4-cylinder turbo-diesel with 48V mild-hybrid |
| Power | 150kW @ 3000-3400rpm |
| Torque | 500Nm @ 1600-2800rpm |
| Transmission | 6-speed automatic |
| Drive Type | Part-time 4x4 |
| Fuel Consumption (Claimed) | 7.2L/100km |
| Fuel Tank | 80 litres |
| Payload | 900kg (SR5 V-Active) |
Performance and Driving Experience
- Smooth and powerful 2.8L turbo-diesel engine
- Mild-hybrid system provides seamless stop-start functionality
- Comfortable ride quality, especially with updated suspension
- Some low-speed hesitation from the automatic transmission
- Heavy steering due to hydraulic system
Expert Insight: "The HiLux V-Active's start-stop system is actually a rather good setup in the city that's much more comprehensive than less sophisticated systems in other utes." - CarExpert
Fuel Efficiency
- Claimed Combined Consumption: 7.2L/100km (SR5 V-Active)
- Real-World Tested Consumption: 9.1-9.8L/100km (varies by review)
- Up to 9.5% improvement in fuel efficiency claimed by Toyota
Value for Money
- Competitive pricing against established ute rivals
- Well-equipped with modern technology and safety features
- Five-year/unlimited-kilometre warranty
- Capped-price servicing available
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Improved fuel efficiency with mild-hybrid system
- Smooth and seamless stop-start functionality
- Strong off-road capabilities
- Reliable and durable reputation
Cons:
- Limited performance improvements from mild-hybrid system
- Dated interior design and technology
- Firm ride quality when unladen
- Heavy hydraulic steering system
Expert Review Summaries
CarExpert
Rating: 7.7/10
- Pros:
- Improved urban fuel efficiency
- Smooth stop-start system
- Strong off-road performance
- Cons:
- Dated interior technology
- Firm unladen ride
Summary: "The mild-hybrid Toyota HiLux is a great step in the right direction when it comes to reducing urban fuel consumption and tailpipe emissions." Read the full review
CarsGuide
Rating: 7.5/10
- Pros:
- Effective off-road performance
- Improved fuel efficiency
- Familiar and functional interior
- Cons:
- Limited on-road refinement
- Minimal performance improvements
Summary: "The HiLux Rogue remains very effective off road, and it's not atrocious on sealed surfaces. But in terms of refinement, comfort, and all around drivability, it still lags behind a lot of other contemporary utes." Read the full review
Drive
Rating: 7.4/10
- Pros:
- Improved fuel efficiency
- Strong towing capacity
- Reliable reputation
- Cons:
- Dated interior design
- Firm ride quality
Summary: "The 2024 Toyota HiLux V-Active offers incremental improvements in efficiency and urban driving, but still falls short of more modern competitors in terms of overall refinement and technology." Read the full review
CarExplore's Take on the 2024 Toyota HiLux V-Active
The 2024 Toyota HiLux V-Active represents a step forward for the popular ute, introducing mild-hybrid technology to improve fuel efficiency and urban drivability. The system's most noticeable benefit is its smooth and seamless stop-start functionality, which works well in heavy traffic conditions.
However, the improvements are incremental rather than revolutionary. The HiLux maintains its strong off-road capabilities and reliable reputation, but still lags behind some competitors in terms of on-road refinement, interior design, and technology offerings.
The mild-hybrid system provides the most benefit in urban environments, with less impact on open-road driving. This means buyers who spend more time in city traffic will see the greatest advantages from the V-Active technology.
Ideal For: Loyal Toyota customers and those who prioritize reliability and off-road capability, especially if they do a lot of urban driving.
Consider Alternatives If: You're looking for the latest in-cabin technology, prioritize on-road comfort, or want more significant fuel efficiency gains from a hybrid system.In conclusion, the 2024 Toyota HiLux V-Active offers a familiar package with modest improvements in efficiency and urban drivability. While it may not lead the class in refinement or technology, it maintains the HiLux's reputation for reliability and capability, which continues to appeal to a wide range of buyers.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much fuel can I save with the V-Active system?
A: Toyota claims up to 9.5% improvement in fuel efficiency, though real-world savings may vary depending on driving condition.
Does the V-Active system affect the HiLux's off-road capability?
A: No, the mild-hybrid system doesn't negatively impact off-road performance, and the HiLux maintains its strong off-road capabilities.
Is the V-Active system available on all HiLux models?
A: The V-Active system is optional on SR 4x4 double-cab automatic variants and standard on SR5 and Rogue 4x4 double cab automatic version.
How does the HiLux V-Active compare to full hybrid utes?
A: The HiLux V-Active is a mild-hybrid, offering less significant fuel savings compared to full hybrid systems. Toyota is expected to introduce a full hybrid HiLux in 20
What is the warranty coverage for the HiLux V-Active?
A: Toyota offers a five-year/unlimited-kilometre warranty, which can be extended to seven years for the engine and driveline if serviced according to the logbook.
