4 New Toyota Hybrid Cars Launching Soon: 7 Seat Hyryder To New Fortuner MHEV
Hybrids have a limited representation in India’s automotive landscape. Toyota continues to lead the hybrid space and currently has several strong hybrid models on sale here. Here are four more hybrid launches that can be expected from Toyota in the not-so-distant future.
Toyota will launch the next-generation (9th generation) Hilux in India sometime this year. It was previously showcased in Thailand, and comes with a lot of improvements over the outgoing model. The outgoing model has managed to create a niche following here, which the new model can capitalise on when launched.
On the design front, the new-generation Hilux will get a completely new front fascia. It will look sharper and more aggressive. Toyota calls it the ‘Cyber Sumo Face’. The wheels and rear end also have minor styling changes.
Inside, the new model will have significant design improvements and will see the addition of new features like a digital instrument cluster, larger touchscreen infotainment unit and more. The suspension is also likely to improve on the new model.
The 9th generation Hilux will be based on the same IMV platform as the outgoing model. It is expected to come with the 2.8L turbocharged four-cylinder diesel engine as the current model. Additionally, a 48V mild hybrid (MHEV) version is also likely to be offered. This setup will be identical to the one offered on the outgoing Fortuner.
On this version, the hybrid battery pack will sit underneath the rear seats so that interior space remains uncompromised. It will have a 1-ton payload capacity and will be able to tow up to 3.5 tons.
The next-generation Fortuner based on the new Hilux is also in the works. It was even spied testing in Thailand. From what we can see in spy shots, the new SUV will take design inspirations from the truck. Portions of the design, like the silhouette for example, are likely to remain unchanged. The front fascia will be new. It will get a wider grille, sleeker headlamps, a new bumper and LED fog lamps. At the rear, the new SUV will get connected LED tail lamps and a new bumper. It will also ride on new wheels.
Inside, the new Fortuner will likely get Hilux-like design updates, and a longer list of features. It is expected to come with large 12.3-inch touchscreen, 360-degree camera, ADAS and more. Engine options are likely to remain the same- 2.7 naturally aspirated petrol (making 164hp, 245NMm), and 2.8L turbo-diesel (producing 201hp, 500Nm). The 48V mild hybrid powertrain with the same output as the standard diesel engine, will also be offered.
The Toyota Hycross is very popular in the Indian market. It even has a strong hybrid version on offer. Originally launched in 2022, this MPV is now awaiting a mid-life update later this year. This facelift is expected to bring design improvements and more equipment to the vehicle and will act as a stopgap till the next-generation arrives later in the decade. On the facelift, the ride quality and cabin experience will see significant improvement.
Existing petrol and strong hybrid powertrains will be retained. The strong hybrid Hycross comes with a setup that has a four-cylinder, 2.0L petrol engine at its core. This is mated to an electric motor and a battery pack. The total system output stands at 181hp and 188Nm. It comes mated to an e-CVT transmission
Another hybrid product expected from Toyota in the coming years is a seven seater version of the Hyryder. A test mule of this vehicle was spied recently. It will have a significantly longer wheelbase than the five-seater and will be longer as well. We expect this model to launch with the same petrol and hybrid engines as the five-seater- 1.5L naturally aspirated petrol mild hybrid making 101hp and 1.5L strong hybrid making 113hp.