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<\/p>\nTruck buyers in Europe have a new Toyota Hilux on the horizon, bringing a bit more power and efficiency to the popular pickup. The company just released a mild-hybrid version that adds a healthy amount of thrust to the already brisk diesel powertrain. <\/p>\n
This Hilux iteration features a 48-volt mild hybrid system with a single motor incorporated into the powertrain, adding an extra 16 horsepower (12 kilowatts) and 48 pound-feet (65 Newton-meters) of torque to the mix. It’s fused with Toyota’s turbocharged 2.8-liter diesel four-cylinder engine which produces 201 hp and a stout 369 lb-ft of twist on its own. A small 48V lithium battery powers the motor, and being a mild-hybrid system, there is no electric-only mode.<\/p>\n
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Thus equipped, Toyota says the Hilux Hybrid 48V is five percent more efficient at the pump versus the standard diesel powertrain. This is partly due to an enhanced stop-start system that is said to improve driving in heavy stop-and-go traffic. Thanks to the electric motor, the engine can remain off a bit longer in extremely slow situations. Toyota also sets the diesel’s idle down to 600 rpm to sip less fuel. It’s worth noting that, while the automaker cites a five percent bump in efficiency, specific stats regarding fuel economy aren’t available yet.<\/p>\n
The new Hilux Hybrid 48V offers more than just a tweaked powertrain. The electrified pickup gets Toyota’s Multi-terrain Select system that includes six driving modes: Dirt, Mud, Rock, Sand, Deep Snow, or choose Automatic and let the truck decide what’s best. To help ensure the Hilux lives up to its off-roading reputation, engineers took extra steps to waterproof the electrical bits. The hybrid truck can wade through 27.5 inches of water.<\/p>\n