Why 2025 Toyota Hilux SR5 Feels Well Overdue for Replacement

To review the 2025 (MY24) Toyota Hilux SR5, we have to rewind to 2015, when the eighth-generation Hilux arrived with much fanfare. It was rugged, reliable, and suddenly every tradie wanted one. Fast forward ten years, and the Hilux is still going strong, still the top-selling ute in Australia, still beloved by those who need a workhorse with a heartbeat. But, let’s be honest: the ageing bones of this platform are starting to show.

In July 2025 alone, Toyota shifted 4,676 Hilux units, of which 4,000 were 4×4 models, bringing the year-to-date tally to 30,943. That’s nothing to sneeze at — it remains number one, swapping spots occasionally with the Ford Ranger. But numbers don’t hide the cracks. The current eighth-generation Hilux is approaching its ninth birthday, and while it still has fans, the 2025 model is showing its age, particularly against rivals like the Ranger, Triton, Navara, and even the GWM Cannon Alpha Ultra PHEV.

Platform Problems and Powertrain

The Hilux’s current 2.8L turbo-diesel engine produces 150kW and 500Nm, paired with a six-speed automatic that feels, well… geriatric next to modern rivals. Toyota has added a 48-volt electrical assist to this setup, but they shy away from calling it a mild hybrid — probably because “hybrid” evokes Prius and Camry images, which would confuse the traditional Hilux buyer. In reality, the system offers a smidge of extra torque and smoother stop/start operation, but it’s not transformative.

Unlike the LandCruiser 300, Prado, and Tundra, which have all migrated to Toyota’s TNGA-F ladder-frame architecture, the Hilux soldiers on with the same old chassis. This means the suspension, handling, and driving dynamics are now noticeably behind the competition. While Ranger now boasts a fully automatic 4WD system that can switch between two- and four-wheel drive on sealed roads, Hilux limits 4WD to muddy and rough conditions. This is fine for tradies who know their dirt tracks, but it feels dated compared to what’s available at a similar price point.

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Above: This Week’s VIDEO Review – The 2025 Toyota Hilux SR5 is still a sales king at $69k but….

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ABOVE: 2025 Toyota Hilux

Exterior and Cabin Features

The SR5 4×4 dual-cab gets LED headlights and daytime running lights, plus a tailgate with a gas strut that makes lifting a little less arm-aching. But beyond those small niceties, the styling screams “2015” — not necessarily bad, but uninspiring. The tray shines like new, but one load of tools or gravel will quickly dull that polish. A liner is a must.

Inside, “premium cloth” seats aren’t premium, nor heated — so winter mornings are BYO blanket. Both front and rear seats are cramped: long-legged drivers will struggle up front, but rear passengers are limits to apprentices and/or people you really dislike, it is sardine time back up in there. There’s no under-seat storage — though USB charging ports for back-seat passengers are at least a small win. Plastics are worksite-ready, but the ‘80s-style digital clock is taking retro just a smidge too far.

Driver dials include a small LCD screen, but the 8” touchscreen with CarPlay/Android Auto refused to cooperate in our testing — cable or wireless. Ergonomically, the cabin is practical, but far from luxurious.

Driving Experience

On-road, the Hilux drives like the truck it is: sturdy, safe, but far from refined. Hydraulic steering lacks the assistance found in competitors, and lane departure “assist” brakes a single front wheel, which can be unsettling at 110km/h in wet conditions. Blind-spot monitoring and 360° cameras are limited to the top-tier pickup models. Automatic headlights work well, but wipers are still stuck on intermittent — a simple oversight that can frustrate drivers in poor weather.

The 2.8L diesel makes industrial noises at low speed and struggles to maintain enthusiasm at higher speeds, even in “sport” mode. Acceleration feels lethargic compared to competitors — especially the $65k GWM Cannon Alpha Ultra PHEV, which offers 300kW and 750Nm, a nine-speed automatic, dual-action tailgate, heated/cooled seats, 120km EV range, and more advanced ADAS tech. For just $4,000 less than the Hilux, the Cannon feels like a leap forward, whereas Hilux feels like a cautious shuffle in place.

Off-road, the Hilux is still very capable. Multi-terrain select and a solid chassis allow it to tackle dirt, mud, and sand with confidence. This is where the Hilux earns its reputation, and for tradies and off-road enthusiasts, it remains a credible tool. However, the difference between on-road and off-road refinement is stark — driving on tarmac reminds you of what you’re missing out on elsewhere.

Pricing and Comparison

The Hilux SR5 is $69k drive-away. For context:

The GWM Cannon Alpha Ultra PHEV is $65k and delivers significantly more performance, comfort, and tech.
The Ford Ranger Wildtrak starts around $83k and adds more refinement, features, and on-road composure.
The Ford Ranger Raptor jumps to $90k drive-away, offering a twin-turbo V6 petrol, sophisticated off-road kit, and a cabin Hilux can only dream of.

Even at $69k, Hilux buyers are missing heated/cooled seats, a modern 10-speed auto, EV modes, and the smoother tech experience now commonplace in competitors.

Conclusion

The 2025 Hilux SR5 is still tough, capable, and a top seller. It still tows 3,500kg and dominates dirt tracks, but it’s expensive for what it delivers on-road and in comfort. Both front and rear seats are cramped, the cabin feels dated, tech is limited, and the diesel engine struggles compared to modern rivals.

For those prioritising refinement, tech, and road comfort, Ford’s Ranger Wildtrak and Raptor are stronger options. For bang-for-buck performance with modern features, the GWM Cannon Alpha Ultra PHEV undercuts Hilux by four grand and gives more power, comfort, and tech. Hilux remains a stalwart tradie’s ute, but for the price, it’s a compromise in 2025 — the new generation can’t come soon enough.

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