Over the years, the Toyota Hilux has garnered a reputation for being nigh on indestructible. You might remember when a certain television motoring show tried to destroy one using ever-more-outrageous means. And as you’ll recall, they failed. It would restart after every stunt, including being atop a collapsing building. Impressive.
So while you can pretty much guarantee that one will be reliable, will it be among the best used tow cars? Time to find out.
What’s a used Toyota Hilux like inside?
The interior space depends on which model you go for. The single-cab version has just two seats, and reasonable space for the two occupants.
Extra-cab models have two main doors and two smaller, rear-hinged doors behind. The legroom here is limited, so they would not suit a family. However, double-cab Hiluxes have four full doors and offer reasonable space for five adults, although there are a couple of compromises to consider.
First, a little more legroom up front wouldn’t go amiss; second, this vehicle has the smallest load bed of all three models, which might be an issue if you regularly use your Hilux to carry large loads. You can fold the rear seats if you need more luggage space, though.
On the plus side, all Hilux models come with a reasonable amount of standard equipment, which could be a deal breaker when you’re looking for a good caravan tow car. The Hilux includes air-con, automatic lights and electrically adjustable (and heated) door mirrors.
However, it’s worth stepping up to the mid-range Icon model, which gives you cruise control, DAB radio and an all-important reversing camera.
As for payload, the Hilux can cope with up to 3500kg, which is very good indeed. The load bed is pretty wide, too, which enhances its practicality if you’re looking at a pick-up for towing a caravan.
How does a used Toyota Hilux drive?
When this version of the Hilux was released, it was available with just the one engine – a 2.4-litre, four-cylinder diesel. It’s fair to say it has a somewhat lackadaisical approach to getting from here to there. It gets there – eventually. However, it has lots of torque, which means that a hefty caravan holds no fears for it.
But if you can stretch to it, a 2.8-litre diesel engine was introduced in 2020, and is by far the superior unit. It’s much stronger than the old 2.4, a lot smoother, and far less keen to shout about just how hard it’s having to work for you. It is also at its best when paired with the six-speed automatic transmission.
However, the crude, firm suspension does allow the back of the vehicle to bob around when hitched up, which can translate into disconcerting movements from the tourer on the motorway.
This also means the ride is pretty bouncy when you are not hitched up to a van, although the Hilux is no worse than most pick-ups in this regard. It also gets better when you have a load in the back.
The steering is quite slow, and the turning circle is large, which is worth bearing in mind when you’re parking, both in town and on a campsite.
Toyota Hilux trouble spots
Over the course of its life, this generation of Toyota Hilux has been recalled precisely twice. And that’s it. Not a bad record.
The first concerned the brake booster on 2638 examples, in which the piston could degrade.
The second was issued in 2022 and covered 27,327 vehicles on which the DCM (the car’s brain) could cause the emergency call system to fail. For full details of the recalls, see check-vehicle-recalls.service.gov.uk.
Verdict
If you’re thinking of buying a used car that will double as a workhorse during the week and a leisure vehicle at the weekend, the Hilux is up there with the very best pick-ups. It’s also available at reasonable prices. Running costs are good, too. However, if you don’t need a working vehicle, then opting for one of the more luxurious and comfortable SUVs for towing might be better suited to your needs.
Check out our review of the 2021 Toyota Hilux if you’d like a more in-depth look at how it got on when put to the test.
What will a Hilux tow?
- Kerbweight: 2125kg
- Towing limit: 3500kg
- Noseweight limit: 130kg
- 85% match: 1806kg
What to pay for a used Toyota Hilux
- High: price: £59,868, model: 2.8 D-4D Invincible X, year: 2023, miles: 9700
- Sweet spot: price: £18,908, model: 2.4 D-4D Invincible, year: 2018, miles: 75,000
- Low: price: £10,787, model: 2.4 D-4D Active 4WD, year: 2016, miles: 96,000
Running costs for a Toyota Hilux
- Insurance group: 45
- Annual VED: £335
- Average economy: 28.5mpg
- Interim/full service: £236
Servicing prices supplied by Servicing Stop, 0844 324 5262, servicingstop.co.uk
Alternatives to consider
Used Ford Ranger (2011-2023)
This is the pick-up you’ll want to buy if you enjoy the process of driving. It steers well, and there are two diesel engines available. It’s also supremely capable off road and its 800mm wading depth is one of the best in its class. Better still, it has short overhangs front and rear, giving it steep approach and departure angles. Look for Wildtrak, with
an all-important reversing camera as standard.
Take a look at our review of the 2023 Ford Ranger 2.0 TDCi Wildtrak Double Cab Auto.
Hyundai Santa Fe (2018-2024)
If you don’t need a working vehicle, this makes a great alternative to a pick-up. It’s large, has an enormous boot, and can carry seven people. The 2.2 CRDi engine is strong, and the rest of the car makes a stable, dependable towing machine, even on a windy day. It has four-wheel drive, to help with traction on any slippery surfaces. Better still, it’s quiet and refined when it’s not towing.
See what we made of a used Hyundai Santa Fe Mk3
If you’ve enjoyed reading this article, why not get the latest news, reviews and features delivered direct to your door or inbox every month. Take advantage of our brilliant Practical Caravan magazine SUBSCRIBERS’ OFFER and SIGN UP TO OUR NEWSLETTER for regular weekly updates on all things caravan related.
