Every product is carefully selected by our editors and experts. If you buy from a link, we may earn a commission. Learn more. For more information on how we test products, click here.

Dyson daniels 1180x90
Dyson daniels 778x150
2026 toyota hilux

More Powerful Toyota HiLux Could Gain ‘2JZ-Like’, 300HP Turbo Petrol Engine


Think of iconic Toyota engines, and the 3.0-litre inline 6-cylinder twin-turbo 2JZ-GTE engine is the first thing that comes to mind. Originally found in cars like the Toyota Supra, Soarer, and Aristo, Toyota put them to rest in the early 2000s. However, enthusiasts will be excited to hear that the brand is not giving up on petrol power yet, as Toyota has teased a 2.0-litre 4-cylinder turbo petrol unit in Japan that was fitted to a HiLux. Better yet, engineers want it to surpass the popularity of the 2JZ.

“Toyota has a globally popular engine called the 2JZ engine. We would like to aim to create an engine that surpasses that,” said a Toyota Engineer when questioned by Karuma News.

Reports state some variants of the new motor produce up to 400HP, but a 300HP variant was fitted to a Toyota HiLux for journalists to test.

RELATED: Cheaper Toyota LandCruiser FJ Could Undercut the New Prado in Australia.

2023 Toyota GR Corolla | Image: Toyota
Toyota GR Corolla makes 300HP from its turbo-charged 3-cylinder engine | Image: Toyota

The Japanese publication says Toyota recently showed off its new range of turbo petrol engines, including a 2.0-litre unit with 300HP with a 6,200 rpm redline fitted to a HiLux, and a more powerful variant with 400HP and a 6800 rpm redline fitted to a Lexus IS. The HiLux was equipped with a 6-speed manual gearbox, while the Lexus was automatic.

Some feedback about this new powertrain included that the “engine had no lag” and was “fun to drive,” and it seems Toyota is immensely proud of this new engine.

The engine will be much more powerful than the current 2.4-litre unit, but it will also have lower emissions and better fuel efficiency with a block that is physically smaller than the current model: 10% smaller in volume and 10% smaller in height, while delivering a significant increase in output.

2024 toyota hilux driving on the road
2024 Toyota HiLux | Image: Toyota

This augurs well for the next-generation HiLux as it could get a potent turbo petrol powertrain that will further boost the appeal of this ever-popular Ute. In the age of electrification, Toyota seems to hold firm in its belief about the longevity of internal combustion engines. These new petrol engines would power many Toyota and Lexus products with a steely-eyed focus on reducing emissions and increasing efficiency.

Reports about the 2025 Toyota HiLux suggest the model will have the same 2.4-litre turbo-diesel engine with mild-hybrid technology – not the 4-cylinder turbo petrol engine we’re discussing. However, it’s well-known that Australia plays a large role in developing this 2025 year model vehicle. It is the only market outside Japan with development prototypes, so that wouldn’t rule out petrol power entirely.

Ultimately, all we know for now is that the new HiLux will replace the current ageing version with an expected Australian market launch by the end of 2025.

Lexus is
Lexus IS500 | Image: Lexus

You’ll also like: