Production of the new Hilux begins in December at the Zárate plant, with launch scheduled between the end of 2026 and the beginning of 2027
Toyota has decided that Argentina will be the production hub of the unprecedented 100% electric Hilux for Latin America. According to the website O Radar Post, the announcement was made during the annual convention of dealers in the neighboring country, and places the Zárate unit at the center of the brand’s decarbonization strategy, with the start of production of the battery variant (BEV) scheduled to take place in parallel with the traditional diesel version.
The assembly of the restyled pickup should begin in December this year, but the arrival of the electric version at dealerships is scheduled for the end of 2026 or early 2027. The project prioritizes total electrification to the detriment of intermediate technologies, such as the 48V mild hybrid system (MHEV), which is not expected to be manufactured regionally in the short term.
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The Argentine Hilux BEV will have 196 hp of power and all-wheel drive. Initially aimed at fleet owners and urban use, the pickup will have a range of up to 380 km. Despite the exchange of the combustion engine for the batteries, the manufacturer guarantees the maintenance of robustness: the immersion capacity of 700 mm and the ground clearance will be the same as the thermal versions, which will continue to be equipped with the 2.8 turbodiesel engine of 204 hp.
In addition to the new engine, the Hilux line will undergo a deep visual and technological update. The exterior design will adopt tapered headlights and a new grille, while the interior will be inspired by the luxurious Land Cruiser Prado, including a digital dashboard and refined finish. The same updates will apply to the SW4 SUV, whose renewed production in Zárate is expected to start between March and April 2027.
