Check out all about the Toyota Hilux 2018 Philippines in our in-depth review which covers the latest price, specs, interior, exterior and many more.

1. Toyota Hilux 2018 Philippines Review: Introduction

It seems never enough to sing the plaudits of Toyota. The carmaker from the Land of Rising Sun has everything in their stock, from tiny hatchbacks to stylish sedans, from stalwart SUVs to bigger MPVs. And decidedly, it’s impossible not to mention the tough-built Hilux, its hot face in pickup truck segment.

It’s impossible not to mention the tough-built Toyota Hilux, its hot face in pickup truck segment

Fist bombarded in '68, the Toyota's noted pickup truck has been running through eight generations. Presently, its repute, like its talent is unbreakable. Why do we say that? Let’s find out more through our Toyota Hilux 2018 Philippines review which is going to zoom in the 2.8 G 4x4 variant.

Toyota Hilux Introduction

2. Toyota Hilux 2018 Exterior

The exterior is one of the ruling points making the Hilux become a hot-seller in local pickup range. For 2018, the Toyota Hilux exterior receives a more circular look with a new front profile and larger fenders, not counting new styling tweaks. Generally, this look is not very ground-breaking yet it’s enough to make the Hilux friendlier and notably, more evocative of a sport utility vehicle.

The exterior is one of the main points making the Hilux become a hot-seller in local pickup range

Taking a closer look at this SUV-ish truck, you’ll spot the big front grille is now decked with beefy chrome-slat margin and an outstanding Toyota logo which is made of chrome too. Besides, spherical fog lights and huge multi-reflector halogen headlamps also together create a sporty mien.

As to the side, the Hilux is so macho and courteous due to wing mirrors integrated with turn indicators, gracious roof rails, sharp body cladding, side steps, a jaunty antenna and hefty 17-inch alloys.

The big radiator front grille is now decked with beefy chrome-slat bordering and an outstanding Toyota logo

Spherical fog lights and multi-reflector halogen headlamps also together create a sporty mien

Rear-wise, the truck appears sedate with thick roll bars, black airy open space, an openable tailgate and an extensive foot steep under the taillights.

Overall dimensions of the Hilux are 5,335mm x 1,855mm x 1,815mm (L x W x H). So obviously, the new truck is 75mm longer, 20mm wider and 45mm shorter than the last Hilux, but it keeps a 3,085mm wheelbase.

As to the side, the 2018 Toyota Hilux exterior is so macho and courteous with wing mirrors integrated with turn indicators

3. Toyota Hilux 2018 Interior

Breaking into the cabin and you will face a glossier and comfy space. Even, we dare say the Toyota Hilux interior is no less than an SUV. If hare plastic and beige trim in the 7^th-gen Hilux used to let you down, new black trim and more stuff on the dash in the current model will make you satisfied. Particularly, you can have a sensation of the premiumness in every angle and detail.

We dare say the 2018 Toyota Hilux interior is no less than a real SUV

Point by point, the large paired shade dash features dignified silver face where places a multi-info display, controls switches, music system and A/C blowers. Moreover, the cockpit is very versatile with glove boxes, 12V power socket, sun visor with ticket holders, day and night side rear view mirror, wireless door lock, key/light on warning and A/C vents on one edge of the dashboard. At the opposite end, there is a massive instrument cluster accompanied with illuminated Optitron tachometer, speedometer and more.

Additionally, this is also a high-tech cabin with countless electric features like a large 6.5” touchscreen compatible with AVT-sourced DVD satellite navigation, USB, MP3, Bluetooth and Aux. The four-spoke silver urethane steering wheel is now more distinctive and plusher with mounted controls.

For the most part, the 2018 Toyota Hilux interior design truly gets us pleased with an ergonomically-designed dash, which ensures the driver’s convenience and comfort.

As per seating and cargo, the 2018 Toyota Hilux exterior can carry 5 people, counting the driver already

As per seating and boot space, the Hilux can carry 5 people, counting the driver already. Passengers can be cooled with a powerful A/C equipped at the front. Other than that, a stronger feeling of comfort can be had thanks to semi-fabric/full moquette upholstery. In truth, seats at the front are fairly supportive and are armed with headrest. Meanwhile, the rear units come with tipped up functions along with storage feature. As for the driver’s seat, it is offered with extra vertical height adjustment portion for more convenience.

You can load up the ample bed behind with stuff

Aside from loading up the ample bed behind with stuff, you can fold down the rear seats to carry more things such as potted plants or groceries.

4. Toyota Hilux 2018 Philippines Review: On- and Off-road Performance

Under the sheet metal is still a silent but up-to-the-minute 2.8L inline-4 1GD-FTV mill. Despite not being as big as the engine under the last Hilux’s hood, this new one generates more power, torque and especially, more fuel efficiency. In detail, the 2.8L engine is capable of dishing out 174 horsepower and a peak torque of 450 Nm, 9% more power and 31% more torque than the previous engine. This amount of power is fed to the four wheels via a six-speed automatic gearbox with ECT.

Under the sheet metal is still a silent but up-to-the-minute 2.8L inline-4 1GD-FTV mill

Because of an upgraded suspension system, the 2018 Hilux ride is more balanced while the extra torque facilitates the acceleration.  We’ve noted that the engine also enhances the car’s gas mileage. Yes, riding around town, it does a decent 10.2 km/l at 17 kmph and on highway roads, it rates 15.5 km/l at 95 kmph. So on average, it drinks around 13.88 km/l of fuel.

One more reason to give the 2018 Toyota Hilux compliment is its various drive modes including Normal, Eco and Power. For daily rides, the Eco and Normal modes will suit you most while for going off-road, the Power one can help you challenge any kind of terrains. In any circumstance, this mill is still responsive and quiet, even at full throttle.

In any circumstance, this mill is still responsive and quiet, even at full throttle

By the way, referring to off-road credentials, it can be said with certainty that this is the biggest breakthrough in this 8^th-gen Hilux. Due to the tuned rear suspension and upgraded ground clearance, the Hilux is “a truly unstoppable force of nature.” Furthermore, Pinoys also highly appreciate its extensive and robust underbody protection. Exclusively for the said model 2.8 G 4x4 AT, it is offered with Hill Start Assist Control so as to climb up an incline effortlessly without the clutch’s help.

5. Toyota Hilux 2018 Specs

6. Toyota Hilux 2018 Philippines Price

The Toyota Hilux 2018 is still one of the most affordable pickup trucks you can bring home today

At the end of the day, hopefully, you, Filipino motorists who're in the market for a good pickup truck, have known why this workhorse is of interest to all off-road lovers in the Philippines. For now, are you eager for the most thrilling experiences behind the Hilux’s wheel?

7. Toyota Hilux 2018 Review: Pros & Cons