The Toyota Hilux, South Africa’s best-selling bakkie, has raised the bar for 2024 with its new 48V mild-hybrid powertrain. Announced in January, this upgrade merges the legendary performance of the Hilux with modern hybrid technology, promising improved acceleration, fuel economy, and overall driving efficiency.

Tried and Trusted Engine Meets Electric Innovation

At its core, the Toyota Hilux 48V retains the robust 2.8-liter turbodiesel engine that drivers have trusted for years. Delivering 150kW of power and 500Nm of torque, this engine is now paired with a compact motor generator. The generator operates via a belt system to charge a lightweight 7.6kg lithium-ion battery stored beneath the rear seats. This smart hybrid system offers an additional 12kW of power and 65Nm of torque in short bursts, providing enhanced performance when accelerating or overtaking.

Key Features of the Toyota Hilux 48V

Feature	Details
Engine	2.8-liter turbodiesel engine producing 150kW and 500Nm
Hybrid System	48V mild-hybrid with compact motor generator and lithium-ion battery
Battery	7.6kg 48V lithium-ion battery stored under the rear seat
Additional Power	Electric boost provides an extra 12kW and 65Nm
Fuel Economy	Improved to 9.5L/100km compared to the previous 11.3L/100km
Acceleration (0–100km/h)	10.96 seconds, a significant improvement over the standard 12.38 seconds
Roll-on Acceleration (60–140km/h)	Reduced by almost three seconds, enhancing overtaking performance
Idling Speed	Lowered from 720rpm to 600rpm for better fuel efficiency
Start/Stop System	Refined for seamless operation

Performance Tested: Accelerating the Game

Toyota’s claims of better acceleration and efficiency were tested by The Citizen Motoring, and the results confirmed the bakkie’s impressive capabilities. The standard Hilux Legend 2.8 RS clocked a 0–100 km/h time of 12.38 seconds, primarily hindered by turbo lag. However, the Hilux 48V’s hybrid system cut this time down to an impressive 10.96 seconds, placing it alongside competitors like the Ford Ranger Bi-Turbo and Isuzu D-Max V-Cross in the sub-11-second double-cab bakkie club.

Moreover, roll-on acceleration, crucial for safe overtaking, was significantly improved. The 60–140 km/h time dropped by nearly three seconds, making overtaking not only quicker but also safer by reducing the time spent on the wrong side of the road.

Fuel Efficiency: A Big Leap Forward

The Toyota Hilux 48V also shines in fuel efficiency. It recorded a consumption rate of 9.5 liters per 100 kilometers, a considerable improvement from the 11.3L/100km measured for the Legend 2.8 RS in 2021. This efficiency boost is attributed to features like the refined start/stop system and reduced idling speed, which now sits at 600rpm instead of the previous 720rpm. These enhancements make the Hilux 48V not only a powerful performer but also a more economical option for long-term ownership.

Why the Toyota Hilux 48V is a Game-Changer

The 48V mild-hybrid system brings the best of both worlds to the Toyota Hilux—traditional diesel reliability with a modern electric twist. The compact hybrid system does not compromise the bakkie’s renowned toughness or utility, but instead enhances it with:

Better Performance: Faster acceleration and improved overtaking capability.
Improved Efficiency: Reduced fuel consumption and operating costs.
Innovative Engineering: A seamless hybrid integration that adds value without complexity.

Conclusion

The Toyota Hilux 48V sets a new benchmark for bakkies in South Africa. Its combination of power, efficiency, and cutting-edge technology makes it a formidable competitor in the market. Whether you’re a long-time Hilux fan or exploring the segment for the first time, this hybrid bakkie offers a compelling blend of tradition and innovation. For South African drivers who value both reliability and modern advancements, the Toyota Hilux 48V is a bakkie that delivers on every front. With its game-changing hybrid system, the Hilux remains the undisputed leader in its class, ready to tackle any road or challenge that lies ahead.