Still stinging from losing the title of Australia’s best-selling vehicle in 2023, Toyota has come out swinging early in the new year, adding styling enhancements, new features and fuel-saving 48-volt assistance technology to select HiLux variants.

Due in March, double-cab auto diesel variants of the HiLux benefit from new front-end styling which Toyota describes as giving the ute a more muscular look.

The revised face features a new-look grille and front bumper combined in an interlocking design with an octagonal grille, trapezoidal lower section and outer bumper.

But the big news is Toyota’s adoption of 48-volt technology for select 2.8-litre turbodiesel-powered models, with the new tech available as standard on the 4x4 Rogue and automatic SR5 dual cab variants, and optional on 4x4 SR double cab variants.

Toyota claims the mild-hybrid tech aids engine smoothness and improves fuel economy of the 2.8-litre turbodiesel four-cylinder engine by about 6–10% depending on variant.

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Based on the SR5 4x4 dual cab’s claimed 7.9L/100km combined cycle fuel consumption, that could see consumption improve to around 7.1L/100km, although Toyota has not yet released any official figures for the new model.

Often more commonly referred to as mild-hybrid technology, Toyota instead refers to it as 48-volt technology, presumably to avoid confusion with its long-established hybrid-electric technology such as that pioneered by the Prius.

Despite being the least electrified of all EV drivetrains, 48-volt mild-hybrid technology has become increasingly popular as car makers strive to reduce the fuel consumption and emissions of internal combustion engine (ICE) powered vehicles.

Such systems temporarily deliver an additional boost of electric power and torque when the vehicle starts and accelerates.

The additional ‘shove’ of electric power reduces the need for the combustion engine to use extra fuel to boost its performance.

A key difference between the HiLux’s mild-hybrid or 48-volt technology and the series-parallel hybrid used in a variety of other Toyota models, including Camry, Corolla and RAV4, is that the electric motor does not drive the wheels, but instead assists the combustion engine at low engine speeds, such as when starting or accelerating.

Toyota says its 48-volt system comprises a motor generator, 48-volt battery and DC/DC converter which enables a stop/start system, enhances driveability and fuel efficiency, and reduces noise, vibration and harshness.

Variants with the mild-hybrid tech are also claimed to be more capable off-road thanks to the standard fitment of Toyota’s Multi-Terrain Select system, which offers six selectable drive modes to enhance performance in rugged conditions.

SR grades fitted with the optional 48-volt technology also gain dual-zone automatic climate control, smart entry and start, automatic up-down control for the power windows, and carpet floor mats.

Elsewhere, the update sees most WorkMate variants gain a black honeycomb mesh grille paired with a black lower and body-coloured side bumper finish, while a tailgate damper has been added on pick-up variants.

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The front bumper on WorkMate single-cab chassis and petrol double-cab variants has also been changed from a dark grey finish to black.

SR grades add a silver lower bumper finish, while the SR5 getting a black upper-grille mould, dark-tinted LED headlamp cluster and gloss black treatment on its fog lamp bezels, exterior mirrors and exterior door handles.

All HiLux SR double-cab automatic pick-ups also now feature two front and four rear parking sensors, while the upmarket SR5, Rogue and GR Sport variants gain wireless phone charging and two rear USB-C ports on double-cab variants.

Toyota Australia Vice-President Sales, Marketing and Franchise Operations Sean Hanley said the upgrades to the new-look HiLux range made it more compelling.

“Introducing 48-Volt technology on double-cab HiLux models is an exciting step forward, improving fuel efficiency while still providing performance and capability that the HiLux is known for,” Mr Hanley said.