Talks of Toyota building a diesel hybrid have been going on for the past few years. Back then, we were told we could expect it by 2022. But as we all know, the IMV Fortuner, Hilux, and Innova we have in the country, and in other markets are still very much purely running combustion engines.

Now, we've come across reports that Toyota Australia has confirmed the GD hybrid is finally a go, and the Hilux pick-up is getting the first dibs of mild hybrid assist by 2024.

Based on available information, the 2.8-liter 1GD-FTV will get a dedicated 48V system that consists of a battery and a small electric motor generator. Because of this system, the manufacturer claims the GD engine will approximately have a 10% improvement in terms of fuel efficiency due to the automatic stop/start system, while also improving driveability and reducing NVH.

Notably, reports say Toyota Australia won't give the Hilux the “hybrid” moniker, and will instead be called the “Hilux with 48-volt technology”. This may have been done to avoid confusion with Toyota's HEV models that use a more dedicated hybrid system.

For the time being, Toyota Australia has not confirmed if the Hilux's PPV counterpart, the Fortuner, is getting the mild-hybrid system as well. The manufacturer says they will first offer the mild-hybrid assist to their standard SR5 4x4 and the Rogue 4x4 variants.

Australia may be the first country to get the mild-hybrid Hilux models, but we won't be surprised if the ASEAN market goes next. After all, the Hilux units Down Under are being imported from Thailand.

Source: Paultan.org, CarExpert