Next-Gen Toyota Hilux: What We Know About The 'Travo' Badge And Launch

The Toyota Hilux has long been a favorite among truck buyers, but after nearly a decade on the market, the current generation is starting to feel its age. First launched in 2015, it’s been kept fresh with updates in 2017, 2020, and most recently in 2024.

Now, Toyota’s recent trademark filing for the name “Hilux Travo” hints that a new generation could be just around the corner. The trademark, filed on December 23, 2024, with Thailand’s Department of Intellectual Property, has sparked speculation that the “Travo” badge might be used as a suffix for the upcoming ninth-generation model.

That said, most markets will probably continue to know it simply as the Hilux, a name that’s built a reputation for toughness and dependability. Toyota has not revealed the exact launch date for the new Hilux, but indications suggest a 2025 release. We expect the next-generation truck to maintain its rugged and versatile character by riding on a beefed-up version of its current ladder-frame platform.

When it comes to engines, the new Toyota Hilux will likely stick with the proven 2.8-liter four-cylinder diesel, possibly featuring mild-hybrid tech to improve efficiency. Buyers can also expect traditional gasoline and diesel options for regions where hybrids aren’t yet mainstream.

Although specifics remain undisclosed, there's no doubt that the Toyota Hilux won't slow down anytime soon. Whether it’s called Travo or just Hilux, the next generation is shaping up to carry on Toyota’s legacy of building one of the toughest trucks on the planet.