The iconic Toyota Hilux turns 50 in New Zealand this year, just as the model enters a new era of diesel, hybrid, and now electric power with its battery-electric version (BEV).

At the recent media launch in the mighty Manawatu, the NZ Fishing News team got the opportunity to drive the new Hilux in a range of models and powertrains, both on and off-road.

The media launch took place in the 'Mighty Manawatu'.

The new Hiluxes have had meaningful updates from an engineering perspective, with the brakes, electric steering, and traction control all supporting the excellent performance Kiwi owners expect from the workhorse vehicles.

The BEV in particular piqued our interest with 144kW of power, and the wellside models offer a range of a little over 300km. The 59kW battery drives the front and rear E-axles, which offer 205Nm and 286Nm of torque respectively. Standard AC charging is comparable to other vehicles, from 10% – 100% in around 6.5 hours, and DC fast charging from 10% – 80% in around 30 minutes. The BEV will suit certain applications where daily mileage is limited and charging is available.

Also announced at the media launch, the Hilux BEV also achieved the same five-star ANCAP safety rating as the other models. The BEV pricing is yet to be announced, but expect it to be north of the top-of-the-range Adventure model priced at $63,990.

Toyota says around 135,000 Hiluxes remain on New Zealand roads today, with an average age of 15 years – a statistic that perhaps says as much about owner loyalty as it does durability.

See more at https://www.toyota.co.nz/new-car/hilux/