New Toyota Hilux Tested: A Proven Workhorse Gets an Update
Translated & summarized from Walla by baba
The new 2026 Toyota Hilux has been tested in Israel, maintaining its reputation for durability and off-road prowess while receiving design and interior updates. Praised for its utility and resale value, it is criticized for its high price and ride comfort when unloaded. The Hilux continues to dominate the Israeli pickup market with a 46% share, despite competitors offering lower prices. Its legendary reliability is highlighted by a farmer who has driven one for over 2.25 million kilometers.
The story in 6 lines · by baba
- The 2026 Toyota Hilux was tested, praised for durability and off-road capability but criticized for price and ride comfort.
- A farmer's Hilux has driven 2.25 million kilometers, highlighting the model's legendary reputation for longevity.
- The new Hilux features updated styling and interior with dual 12.3-inch screens, but lacks rear air conditioning.
- It maintains a 2.8-liter turbodiesel engine with a mild hybrid system, offering 204 horsepower.
- The Hilux leads the Israeli pickup market with a 46% share, ahead of the Isuzu D-Max.
- The tested 'Sahara' trim starts at 360,000 shekels, with options pushing the price higher.
The new 2026 Toyota Hilux has been tested, maintaining its core strengths while aiming for broader appeal. The tested 'Sahara' trim starts at 360,000 shekels, with the test vehicle reaching approximately 390,000 shekels with added options. Competitors include the Isuzu D-Max, Ford Ranger, and KGM Musso. The Hilux received a score of 8.0/10, praised for its homogeneity, utility, off-road capability, resale value, and safety, but criticized for its price, ride comfort without a load, lack of rear air vents, and a mild hybrid system that didn't improve fuel economy.
A farmer named Abashi, who has driven his previous Hilux for an astonishing 2.25 million kilometers, exemplifies the vehicle's legendary durability and reputation for longevity. This extreme example underscores the Hilux's global image of toughness and high resale value, often exceeding market prices. The article notes that while the Hilux is globally recognized for its ruggedness, the events of October 7th have added a somber layer to its perception in Israel.
The 2026 model retains the traditional body-on-frame construction, solid rear axle, and diesel engine, but features a new design inspired by the RAV4, which may not appeal to traditional off-road enthusiasts. Inside, the cabin is modernized with dual 12.3-inch screens and improved materials, though rear air conditioning is still absent. The 2.8-liter turbodiesel engine, now with a mild hybrid system, produces 204 horsepower and 51 kgm of torque, offering strong performance for its class, though fuel efficiency remains similar to the previous model at around 10.2 km/liter.
Ride comfort is a compromise, with a stiff rear suspension designed for heavy loads making the ride bouncy when unloaded. Off-road capability remains a strong point, with classic 4x4 systems and good articulation. The Hilux dominates the Israeli pickup market, with nearly 2,000 sales in 2026 and a 46% market share, significantly ahead of its closest competitor, the Isuzu D-Max.
Despite the high price, the Hilux's reputation for reliability and strong resale value continues to make it a compelling, albeit expensive, choice for many Israeli buyers, from farmers to off-road adventurers.