The new Toyota Hilux is here, and there's a real change beyond the fresh looks. For the first time in India, you can buy a Hilux without 4x4, and it costs less. But Toyota has also made every Hilux automatic-only. So which of the three trims makes sense for you? Let's break it down.
What's new: the first-ever 4x2 and an automatic-only lineup
Two things stand out with this launch. First, the base GX now comes in a 4x2 (rear-wheel-drive) form, which the old Hilux never offered in India. That drops the entry price to ₹31.99 lakh, cheaper than before. Second, Toyota has killed the manual gearbox completely. Every Hilux now uses a 6-speed torque-converter automatic (a smooth self-shifting gearbox). Bookings are open now, and deliveries start in the second week of August.
Variant breakdown: GX 4x2, GX 4x4 and VX 4x4
The range is simple: two trims, three versions. The GX 4x2 AT sits at ₹31.99 lakh, the GX 4x4 AT at ₹33.69 lakh, and the top VX 4x4 AT at ₹36.69 lakh. All three share the same 2.8-liter diesel engine, making 204 bhp and 500 Nm of torque (pulling power that helps with towing and heavy loads). The VX comes only with 4x4, so if you want the fully loaded Hilux, you must take four-wheel drive. Toyota offers six colors, but Sulphur Metallic and Attitude Black are VX-only.
GX 4x2 at ₹31.99 lakh: what you get, and what you give up
The GX 4x2 is your cheapest way into a Hilux. It gets LED headlamps, electrically folding mirrors, a large 12.3-inch touchscreen, and 3-point seat belts with reminders for all seats. That's a decent base kit. But going 4x2 means no low-range gearing, no differential locks, and no multi-terrain traction control. In plain words, this Hilux can't do serious off-road or slushy worksite duty. It suits a buyer who wants the Hilux badge and toughness mainly for tarmac and light trails.
GX 4x4 vs VX 4x4: Is the ₹3 lakh jump worth it?
Adding a 4x4 to the GX costs ₹1.70 lakh and brings a high and low range plus an electronic differential lock. That's the hardware that makes a Hilux go where other vehicles can't. Step up to the VX, and you pay about ₹3 lakh over the GX 4x4. For that, you get the top-spec kit and several convenience features the GX misses. Here's the sweetener: the new VX costs only about ₹70,000 more than the old VX. That makes the range-topper look genuinely well-priced for what it packs in.
Hilux vs Isuzu D-Max V-Cross: price and positioning
The Hilux has just one direct rival: the Isuzu D-Max V-Cross at ₹25.50–30.00 lakh. That's a big gap. The Hilux base is about ₹6.49 lakh dearer than the Isuzu base, and its top trim is about ₹6.69 lakh over. So the Isuzu clearly wins on price. What you pay extra for with the Hilux is the Toyota badge, its proven reliability (it shares its bones with the Toyota Fortuner), and a more modern, feature-loaded cabin. If your priority is the lowest sticker, the D-Max makes a strong case. If long-term durability and resale matter most, the Hilux earns its premium.
Toyota Hilux
PickupWhich Hilux should you buy?
Our pick is the top VX 4x4 AT at ₹36.69 lakh. It's the real Hilux experience, with the full off-road kit and the best features. And with only a ₹70,000 hike over the old top trim, it's the sweet spot for serious users who'll actually use the diff locks and low range. The GX 4x2 at ₹31.99 lakh makes sense only if you want a stylish, tough-looking pickup that stays mostly on roads and never sees a real trail. But if you're spending Hilux money, take the 4x4. Remember, all prices are ex-showroom; add road tax, registration, and insurance for the on-road price, which varies by state.
References: Toyota India — official website
