Toyota is testing a new SUV based on the electric Hilux BEV

A new Toyota SUV was spotted testing based on the ninth-generation Hilux BEV pickup, its first fully electric version.

New Toyota SUV spotted based on the Hilux BEV

The Hilux is Toyota’s top-selling pickup globally and one of the most popular pickups in the world. For its ninth generation, Toyota is adding an all-electric version for the first time.

Toyota showcased the Hilux BEV last month at the Brussels Motor Show with an all-new look and added capability.

With the electric Hilux set to launch in Europe in April, a camouflaged Toyota SUV, based on the same platform, was recently spotted testing in Thailand.

The ninth-gen Hilux officially debuted in Thailand in November, so it’s no surprise Toyota picked it to begin testing. According to Brazilian news Quatro Rodas, the mysterious SUV is thought to be the Toyota SW4, sold as the Fortuner in global markets.

Although it’s covered, you can see the design takes cues from the new Hilux, with slim LED headlights linked to a light bar and a redesigned rear end.

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While Toyota has yet to reveal any details, since the SW4 is based on the same body-on-frame IMV platform as the Hilux, it could be offered with electric, hybrid, diesel, and hydrogen fuel-cell powertrains.

The electric Hilux BEV is powered by a 59.2 kWh lithium-ion battery, delivering a WLTP range of up to 257 km (160 miles). In the city, Toyota said it can achieve a WLTP range of 380 km (236 miles). Its all-wheel-drive setup delivers a combined 473 Nm of torque.

Toyota’s electric pickup offers a 715 kg (1,576 lb) payload and can tow up to 1.6 tons (3,527 lbs). It’s also Toyota’s first Hilux with electric power steering.

On par with the other Hilux variants, the BEV has a ground clearance of 212 mm (8.3″) and can wade through 700 mm (27.5″) of water.

In some markets, such as Brazil and Thailand, the Hilux will retain its 2.8-liter turbodiesel engine with an updated 48V mild-hybrid setup.

The Fortuner’s (SW4) interior will likely feature a similar setup to the new Hilux, with dual 12.3″ driver displays and central multimedia screens.

According to Car250, the next-generation Fortuner will launch in Thailand by the end of 2026. However, it’s not expected to be fully electric. The report claims Toyota will use the same 2.8-liter diesel engine, possibly adding a 48V mild hybrid system.

While the new Fortuner will not be available in the US, Toyota will offer four fully electric SUVs by the end of the year, including the three-row Highlander EV.

Source: ALDOBnet, Car250