Hilux and Tacoma: What’s the Difference?
Comparing the Hilux and Tacoma has largely been tough for Americans as little is known about Toyota’s 3rd major truck.
Ever wondered what the differences were between a Hilux and Tacoma? Do you know what a Hilux is? For most of us here in the states, we’re not very familiar with the Toyota Hilux. The obvious reason is that Toyota does not sell the Hilux in the US. But are we missing out? What is the Toyota Hilux really like?
In a recent episode of “Dude, I Love or Hate My Ride,” host Andre Smirnov from TFL Now grants us access to a detailed review from Simon in Malaysia. Simon is the proud owner of a 2.8 L 4 Cyl Diesel L Edition 2019 Hilux. In the video, Simon does us all a favor and shows us exactly what makes the Hilux and Tacoma different.
Features
“This is the latest facelifted version,” says Simon. Apart from styling, the majority of the differences between the Hilux and Tacoma come in the features. Many are shared, but overall, the Hilux is a slightly more bare-bones model.
“There is no TRD version or anything like that,” he continues. “Hilux is very common out here, but we just don’t get all the features, bells, and whistles, that you guys get on the Tacoma in the U.S.”
The Hilux Simon purchased is an L Edition, which is the top trim level available in Malaysia and costs around $35k USD. Included in this package are leather seats, push-button start, power seats, WeatherTech mats and LED headlights, fog lights, and daytime running lights.
Another neat feature of the Hilux is its 360ยบ panoramic view monitor. This feature only just came to the Tacoma in 2020 but has been around in the Hilux for several years now. A dashcam also comes standard.
While the rest of the world might have been ahead on panoramic view, the Hilux in Malaysia is just now getting cruise control, a staple in the US for decades.
One of the coolest things about the Hilux is it’s AC setup. While there’s no heated seat option or dual-zone climate controls, the Hilux makes up for it in drink storage. On the driver’s side, a cupholder has been placed directly in front of the AC vent. Allowing you to chill your drink.
“Another good feature is here, we’ve got dual-gloveboxes,” explains Simon “Not a big deal. But, this one [upper glovebox] has an air-conditioning vent that can keep your drinks cool. It’s a nice little feature.”
Some of the drawbacks in American eyes might be the overall Size of the Toyota Hilux. It is a bit smaller than the Tacoma and the rear legroom suffers as a result.
The Hilux also misses out on a sliding rear window and only offers a plain-Jane truck bed. No frills at all. But, the Hilux does offer a hydraulic strut-assisted tailgate, which is quite handy.
Performance
It’s clear the Hilux is much more of a work truck than the Tacoma is intended to be. Much of that due to the markets. We Americans love our trucks, whether we work with them or not.
In Simon’s Hilux, we see a 2.8 L 4 Cyl Diesel. This engine puts out a mild 177 hp, but has loads of torque for a small truck at 331 lb-ft. Simon also shares that he gets 23 mpg combined, and 30 mpg highway which is a huge improvement from the Tacoma.
The Hilux is also offered with 4wd and a rear-locking differential for the rugged terrain of southeast Asia.
Hilux and Tacoma Conclusion
Overall, TFL gives the Hilux a 10 out of 10. It’s everything you could possibly need in a small work truck. It’s unfortunate we don’t have them here.