Find the Best Toyota Hilux for Sale: A Tough and Reliable Pickup

The Toyota Hilux is a legendary pickup truck known for its exceptional durability and reliability. It’s great for work, outdoor adventures, or as a versatile family vehicle. Let’s explore why the Hilux is a smart choice, what to think about when buying one, and where to find good deals on a Toyota Hilux for sale. We’ll look at its history, capabilities, and how it compares to other pickup trucks.

Top Reasons to Consider a Toyota Hilux

Exceptional durability and reliability – built to withstand extreme conditions
Versatile for both work and leisure activities
Strong resale value – retains approximately 79% of its value after two years
Powerful engine options with competitive fuel efficiency
Advanced safety features, including a 5-star Euro NCAP rating
Impressive towing capacity and payload capabilities
Comfortable and well-equipped interior, even in base models
Excellent off-road performance with advanced 4×4 systems
Wide range of trim levels to suit various needs and budgets
Toyota’s reputation for quality and after-sales support

Why Choose a Toyota Hilux?

The Toyota Hilux is one of the toughest pickup trucks out there. It can handle extreme conditions, making it popular with people who need a sturdy vehicle. From building sites to off-road trips, the Hilux always proves its worth. This tough reputation comes from real-world tests, like when Top Gear put a Hilux on top of a building and blew it up – and it still worked!

The Hilux is really versatile. It’s just as good on a work site as it is on a family camping trip. It has a big cargo bed and can tow heavy loads easily. Depending on the model, it can tow up to 3,500 kg and carry over 1,000 kg. This makes it great for work and fun activities. New Hilux models are also comfortable to drive every day. They have touch screens, can connect to your phone, and have climate control, so you get comfort and toughness in one package.

The Hilux offers different engine choices to suit various needs. The popular 2.4L and 2.8L diesel engines balance power and fuel economy well. If you want to save on fuel, the Hilux can use about 7.2L to 11.1L per 100km, depending on the model and how you drive. The 2.8L engine is particularly impressive, with up to 204 horsepower and 500 Nm of torque. This means it can accelerate quickly and tow heavy loads without struggling. These engines come with either a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic gearbox, both known for working smoothly and lasting a long time.

Safety is another strong point for the Hilux. New models have advanced safety features like multiple airbags, stability control, and parking sensors. The Hilux got a five-star Euro NCAP rating in 2016, scoring 93% for adult protection and 82% for child protection. This shows how well-built and safe the Hilux is. It also has modern features like Lane Departure Alert, Road Sign Assist, and a system that can detect pedestrians and help prevent collisions. These features not only protect people in the truck but also help prevent accidents from happening in the first place.

What to Consider When Buying a Toyota Hilux

When looking for a Toyota Hilux for sale, think about these things:

New vs. Used

Choosing between a new and used Hilux depends on your budget and what you need. New models have the latest features and full warranty coverage, but they cost more. A new Hilux will have the newest safety features, the latest technology, and might use less fuel because of improved engines. You also get peace of mind with a full warranty, usually 5 years or 100,000 miles for Toyota vehicles in the UK.

Used Hilux trucks can be great value, especially since they’re known to last a long time. Many Hilux models can easily go over 200,000 miles if they’re taken care of properly, so a well-maintained used one can be a smart buy. But make sure to check the truck’s history and condition carefully. Look for a full service history, and think about getting a professional to inspect it before you buy. When buying used, pay attention to the year it was made and what features it has, as these can be quite different between older and newer models.

Model Variants

The Hilux comes in several types, including Active, Icon, Invincible, and Invincible X. Each has different equipment and features. For example, the Invincible X usually has more luxury features and looks fancier than the basic Active model. Here’s a quick look at what each type typically offers:

Active: The basic model, best for people who care more about function than luxury. It usually has simple features like air conditioning and Bluetooth.
Icon: A step up from Active, often adding alloy wheels, a touchscreen, and nicer exterior styling.
Invincible: This middle-range option includes more advanced features like satellite navigation, leather seats, and extra safety systems.
Invincible X: The top model, with the best sound systems, unique styling, and the most comfortable interior with the latest technology.

Think about what you need and how much you want to spend when choosing between these types. If you’re using the Hilux mainly for work, an Active or Icon model might be enough. If you want a fancier truck for daily driving that can also go off-road, the Invincible or Invincible X models are worth looking at.

Engine Options and Performance

The Hilux offers different engine options, usually 2.4L to 2.8L diesel engines. Think about what you need in terms of power and fuel efficiency. The 2.8L diesel engine gives more power, which is good for heavy towing, while the 2.4L might use less fuel for everyday driving. The 2.4L engine, found in many recent Hilux models, produces about 150 horsepower and 400 Nm of torque. This is enough for most daily tasks and light to medium towing.

The more powerful 2.8L engine, available in fancier models, offers up to 204 horsepower and 500 Nm of torque. This extra power is really useful if you often tow heavy loads or need to accelerate quickly when the truck is full. But remember, the increased performance means it uses a bit more fuel.

When thinking about performance, also consider the gearbox options. The 6-speed manual gearbox gives you more control and might save a bit more fuel, while the 6-speed automatic is smoother in traffic and can be less tiring on long trips. Some models also have different driving modes, like Eco and Power, letting you adjust the truck’s performance to what you need at the time.

Budget and Financing

Hilux prices can vary a lot depending on the model, age, and condition. New models usually start around £25,000 and can go up to £40,000 or more for the fanciest versions. Used Hilux trucks can be much cheaper, with prices starting from about £10,000 for older models. Think carefully about your budget and look into financing options if you need them.

When budgeting for a Hilux, remember to think about not just the purchase price but also ongoing costs. While the Hilux is known for being reliable, it’s still a big vehicle that uses more fuel and costs more to maintain than a small car. Diesel models generally use fuel efficiently for their size, but insurance and road tax should also be part of your calculations.

If you’re thinking about financing, look at options from both Toyota Financial Services and other lenders. Toyota often has good finance deals on new vehicles, which might include low interest rates or help with the deposit. For used vehicles, compare offers from different places to make sure you’re getting the best deal. Remember to look at the total cost of the finance agreement, not just the monthly payments.

Mileage and Condition

For used Hilux models, pay close attention to how many miles it’s done and its overall condition. While the Hilux is known for lasting a long time, high-mileage vehicles might need more maintenance. Look for one that’s been well taken care of and has a full service history. It’s also worth checking for any signs it’s been used a lot off-road or for heavy work, as these can affect the truck’s condition.

When checking out a used Hilux, pay special attention to:

Undercarriage condition: Look for signs of off-road damage or too much rust.
Suspension parts: Check for wear or damage, especially if the truck has been used for heavy loads.
Engine condition: Look for signs of oil leaks or unusual noises.
How the gearbox works: Make sure gear changes are smooth in both manual and automatic models.
4×4 system: Test all drive modes to make sure they work properly.
Body condition: Check for signs of accident damage or poor-quality repairs.

If possible, have a professional check the truck before you buy it. This can show potential problems that might not be obvious at first and could save you money in the long run.

Where to Find the Best Toyota Hilux for Sale

When looking for a Toyota Hilux, you have several options:

Authorized Toyota Dealerships

Buying from an authorized Toyota dealer gives you peace of mind. You can get certified pre-owned vehicles, manufacturer warranties, and often better financing options. However, prices might be higher compared to private sellers. Authorized dealerships offer several advantages:

Certified pre-owned programs with extra warranty coverage
Vehicles that have been thoroughly checked and fixed up
Access to the newest models and special editions
Professional sales staff who know a lot about the Hilux range
Possibility of manufacturer-backed finance deals and promotions

When visiting a dealership, don’t be afraid to negotiate on price, especially for used models. Also, ask about any current promotions or deals that might be available.

Online Marketplaces

Websites like Carsnip offer a wide selection of Toyota Hilux models for sale. You can easily compare prices, specifications, and conditions across many listings. This is a great way to get an overview of what’s available and find good deals. When using online marketplaces:

Use filters to narrow down your search based on what you’re looking for
Compare prices across different sellers to make sure you’re getting a fair deal
Read detailed descriptions and look closely at all available photos
Check the vehicle’s history using services like HPI Check
Contact sellers with specific questions about the truck’s condition and history

Remember that while online marketplaces are convenient and offer lots of choices, it’s still important to see and test drive the truck in person before buying.

Private Sellers

Buying from a private seller can sometimes result in lower prices, but it comes with more risks. You’ll need to be more careful in checking the vehicle’s history and condition. Always meet in a safe place and think about getting a professional inspection before buying. When dealing with private sellers:

Ask for detailed service history and any available paperwork
Ask why they’re selling and how the truck has been used
Do a thorough test drive, including on different types of roads if possible
Check that all features and equipment are working properly
Make sure the seller really owns the vehicle
Consider using an escrow service for the transaction to add extra security

While private sales can offer good value, they require more caution and careful checking on your part.

Toyota Hilux vs. Other Pickup Trucks

While the Hilux is a great choice, it’s worth comparing it to other popular pickup trucks:

Hilux vs. Ford Ranger

The Ford Ranger is a strong competitor, offering similar capabilities to the Hilux. The Ranger often feels more like driving a car and might have more advanced entertainment features. However, the Hilux generally has the edge in terms of perceived reliability and keeping its value. Key differences include:

The Ranger typically offers a smoother ride on roads
Hilux has a stronger reputation for durability and off-road capability
Ford often provides more engine options, including a powerful V6 in some countries
Hilux tends to keep its value better over time

Hilux vs. Nissan Navara

The Nissan Navara is known for its comfortable ride, thanks to its coil-spring rear suspension. It might offer a smoother on-road experience compared to the Hilux. However, the Hilux typically has a stronger reputation for durability and off-road capability. Consider these points:

Navara offers a more comfortable ride, especially when not carrying a load
Hilux is often seen as tougher and better suited for heavy-duty work
Nissan has been innovative with features like the rotating rear seat in double cab models
Toyota’s dealer network and after-sales support are generally more extensive

Hilux vs. Mitsubishi L200

The Mitsubishi L200 often comes with a more attractive price and more standard equipment. However, the Hilux generally offers better refinement and keeps its value better. Key comparisons include:

L200 often provides better value for money in terms of features per pound spent
Hilux offers a more refined driving experience and higher-quality interior materials
Mitsubishi has a strong reputation for reliability, but Toyota is slightly ahead in this aspect
Hilux typically uses less fuel across its range

Pickup Truck Feature Comparison

Toyota Hilux

Ford Ranger

Nissan Navara

Mitsubishi L200

Conclusion

The Toyota Hilux remains a top choice for those wanting a tough, reliable pickup truck. It’s durable, versatile, and has modern features that make it good for work and fun. When looking for a Toyota Hilux for sale, think about what you need, your budget, and the different options available. The Hilux is known for being reliable and keeping its value well, which makes it a good long-term investment for many buyers.

Whether you choose a new model with the latest features or a well-maintained used Hilux, you’re getting a vehicle that’s proven to be reliable and perform well. Take your time to research, compare different models, and test drive before deciding. Think about how you’ll use it, what features you want, and how much it will cost to own over time. With the right Hilux, you’ll have a capable truck for years to come, ready to handle tough work or fun weekend adventures.

Remember to check any used vehicle thoroughly, think about the benefits of certified pre-owned programs, and don’t be afraid to negotiate on price. By doing your homework and choosing the Hilux that fits you best, you’ll join many happy owners who rely on their trucks every day. The Toyota Hilux isn’t just a pickup truck; it’s a well-engineered vehicle that’s trusted for work and play.