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Buyer’s Guide for the 2023 Toyota Hilux (New Zealand Edition)

Updated 25 September 2022

Whether you are looking for the ideal truck for the worksite or the back roads, the Toyota Hilux is one of the biggest sellers in New Zealand. Our guide outlines the latest updates for the 2023 models, along with the vehicle’s pros and cons. We cover:

What’s new?

For the 2023 model year, the Toyota Hilux gets several updates to both its appearance and its powertrain. Starting with its looks, the Hilux gets a refresh of its exterior appearance with a refined grille and other design upgrades. In all, there are 18 models available for the 2023 model year. Also, the Hilux gets a 15% boost in standard power. Finally, the roll rigidity has been enhanced by 20% due to a number of suspension changes. Here are some feature-specific upgrades for 2023:
  • SR extra-cab and dual-cab models will receive new 17-inch black alloy wheels. Also, the SR extra-cab model receives body-colored door handles. 
  • ​​The SR5 dual-cab pick-up gets blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.
  • On automatic SR5 models and above, the steering column lock has been replaced by an ID Box anti-theft immobilizer.

Hilux - Pros and Cons

There are a number of reasons why the Toyota Hilux is so popular. Let’s take a look at the top reasons why you may want to consider this top-selling pick-up truck. ​

Pros:

1. Excellent off-roader

Thanks to its 279mm ground clearance, the Toyota Hilux is a dream when it comes to off-road driving. You will feel right at home on rocky roads and forest trails. Also, you can rely on the Toyota Hilux to handle itself on muddy roads. In all, the Toyota Hilux can handle just about any terrain that you may encounter. 

2. Reliable powertrains

Toyota is known for having some of the most reliable powertrains in the automotive world. If you purchase a brand new 2023 Toyota Hilux, you should expect to get about 200,000km of life with the proper maintenance. If you are dependent on your vehicle for work, then a Toyota Hilux is going to be a smart choice. 

3. Good for city driving

While the Toyota Hilux is excellent off the beaten path, this truck is also a respectable urban driver. You should have no problem driving this truck around a downtown area thanks to its excellent engine and good overall manners. ​
Cons:
There may also be some reasons why the 2023 Toyota Hilux may not be the right choice for you. Here’s a look at some of the cons of driving a Toyota Hilux. 

1. On the expensive side

Because Toyota vehicles are renowned for their reliability, they tend to cost somewhat more than their competition. However, if you are looking to drive your truck for longer than its standard warranty, then an investment in a reliable truck is going to make sense. 

2. Not a safety leader

The one area where the Toyota Hilux falls behind the competition is safety. That’s not to say that the Toyota Hilux is an unsafe vehicle. Right now, there are some competitors who offer more standard safety features than the Hilux. 

3. Tall ingress height

While the Toyota Hilux does allow you to go off-road really well, that capability does come with a price. Namely, this truck is not easy to get into and out of. If you have trouble climbing into high vehicles, then the Hilux could give you some problems. 

Standard Hilux Features

1. Powertrain

There are three major powertrains that are offered across the model line for the 2023 model year. The standard entry 122kW/245 Nm 2.7-litre four-cylinder petrol engine gives you excellent fuel efficiency with respectable power. This entry level powertrain can be paired with a manual five-speed transmission or a six-speed automatic transmission. 

If you are looking for a little more power, then there is the available 2.8-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel, which has 150kW of power (at 3400rpm) and 500 Nm of torque. Finally, there is a 10kW/400Nm 2.4-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel available.

2. Tech features

You get some respectable tech features on the base worksite model. Standard tech equipment includes the following:
  • 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system
  • Wired Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
  • Two-speaker sound system
  • Bluetooth connectivity

On higher trim levels, you can get the following tech equipment:
  • Four- or six-speaker sound system
  • Satellite navigation
  • DAB+ digital radio
  • Nine-speaker sound system

3. Comfort and Convenience Features

For the 2023 model year, the Toyota Hilux comes standard with air conditioning, power windows, and cruise control. On higher trim levels, you can get the Toyota Hilux with a front air-conditioned cooler box, privacy glass, dual zone climate control, puddle lights, and carpeted floors. 

4. Trim levels

​​4X2 Single Cab (cab-chassis)
  • Workmate 2.7 manual
  • Workmate 2.7 auto
  • Workmate Hi-Rider 2.4 turbo-diesel manual

4×2 Extra Cab (pickup)
  • SR Hi-Rider 2.8TD auto

4×2 Double Cab (pickup)
  • Workmate 2.7 manual
  • Workmate 2.7 auto
  • Workmate Hi-Rider 2.4TD auto
  • SR Hi-Rider 2.8TD auto
  • SR5 Hi-Rider 2.8TD auto

4×4 Single Cab (cab-chassis)
  • Workmate 2.4TD manual
  • SR 2.8TD manual
  • SR 2.8TD auto

4×4 Extra Cab (cab-chassis)
  • Workmate 2.4TD auto
  • SR 2.8TD manual
  • SR 2.8TD auto

4×4 Extra Cab (pickup)
  • SR5 2.8TD auto

4×4 Double Cab (cab-chassis)
  • Workmate 2.4TD auto
  • SR 2.8TD manual
  • SR 2.8TD auto
  • SR5 2.8TD auto
  • SR5+ 2.8TD auto

​4×4 Double Cab (pickup)
  • Workmate 2.4TD manual
  • Workmate 2.4TD auto
  • SR 2.8TD manual
  • SR 2.8TD auto
  • SR5 2.8TD manual
  • SR5 2.8TD auto
  • SR5+ 2.8TD manual
  • SR5+ 2.8TD auto
  • Rogue 2.8TD auto

5. Safety Features

All versions of the Hilux receive the Toyota Safety Sense suite of safety features as standard. These features include AEB with pedestrian (day/night) and cyclist (day) detection, high-speed adaptive cruise control, and lane departure warning with steering assist via brakes. Traffic sign recognition is also included.

SR5 models and higher receive hill descent control, blind-spot monitoring, a surround-view camera and rear cross-traffic alert.

6. Reliability Ratings

The Toyota Hilux is considered one of the most reliable pick-up trucks in its class. The website Carbuyer gives the Toyota Hilux a 4 star rating out of five stars. 

7. New Zealand Awards

The Toyota Hilux has received the AA Driven Car of the Year Award in the Pick-Up truck Class.

8. Worldwide Awards

The Toyota Hilux is the winner of the International Pick-up Award (IPUA) grand prize.

Resale Value of Previous Models

Toyota Hilux trucks are one of the top sellers in New Zealand. Therefore, you may be wondering what the resale value of a 2023 Toyota Hilux may be in the future. To assist you, here is a look at the current values of Toyota Hilux vehicles from previous model years. 

NOTE: The following data was compiled from average values found on AutoTrader.co.nz. Also note that the exact retail price of a vehicle will vary according to a number of factors including mileage, condition, accident history, number of owners, and the trim level. 
  • 2021 - A 2021 Toyota Hilux SR5 with 22,500 Km is offered for $58,000.
  • 2020 - A 2010 Toyota Hilux SR with 41,000 Km is offered for $48,800.
  • 2019 - A 2019 Toyota Hilux SR with 134,500 Km is offered for $35,000.
  • 2018 - A 2018 Toyota Hilux SR with 102,000 Km is offered for $36,000.
  • 2017 - A 2017 Toyota Hilux SR5 with 67,000 Km is offered for $40,000.

Frequently Asked Questions

​Chances are that you may have some more questions about the 2023 Toyota Hilux. Here are the answers to some frequently asked questions. 

What is the recommended trim level?

One of the most popular trim levels is the SR. With the SR model, you get additional safety features along with dual zone climate control and an upgraded audio system. This is really the ultimate value play in the model range. ​

Who is the Toyota Hilux ideal for?

The Toyota Hilux is ideal for those who like to go off the beaten path and take their vehicle on weekend adventures. Also, you may want to consider the Toyota Hilux if you need a truck for worksite duties. Finally, this pick-up truck is a good choice for those who want a durable and reliable vehicle. 

What is the average price of the Toyota Hilux in New Zealand?

The average price for a new 2023 Toyota Hilux is about $47,000. However, you can get the base Worksite model for under $40,000. If you are looking for the top-of-the-line Rogue model, then you can expect to pay upwards of $70,000. 

Are 2023 Toyota Hilux models hard to find in New Zealand?

Toyota is one of the most popular automakers in the New Zealand market. Also, the Hilux is one of the top selling pick-up trucks. Therefore, you should not have a problem finding a Hilux in a popular trim level. Bear in mind that the current chip shortage is limited availability of all new vehicles into New Zealand. That being said. You should not have a problem finding a range of Hilux trucks in your area. 
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