Toyota Hilux Review
2017-2023
The Toyota Hilux (AN120 Series) is the undisputed king of utility pickups in Kenya. The benchmark choice for commercial enterprises, agricultural farms, government agencies, and safari operators, the Hilux combines indestructible ladder-frame chassis strength, 286 mm ground clearance, 3.5-tonne towing capacity, and legendary resale value. Powered by 2.4L and 2.8L GD-6 Clean Diesel engines, it conquers the toughest terrain in East Africa.
*This score is awarded by our team of expert reviewers after extensive testing of the car
What’s good
- Indestructible commercial benchmark: Highest resale retention and universal spare parts availability across East Africa.
- Sub-2,500 cc duty advantage on 2.4L GD-6: Qualifies for KRA's lower 25% excise tax bracket.
- Extreme 286 mm ground clearance: Easily wades 700 mm deep water and tackles severe muddy upcountry tracks.
- 3,500 kg braked towing capacity: Excellent towing capability for heavy commercial trailers and equipment.
What’s not so good
- Unladen leaf spring rear ride stiffness: Firm rear bounce when driving without cargo payload in the bed.
- High KRA CRSP customs valuation: Heavy import duty investment compared to older utility pickups.
Most popular: Hilux 2.8 GD-6 4x4 Double Cab / 2.4 GD-6 / Revo Rocco / GR-Sport
42 doorsPetrol, DieselAutomatic, Manual
At a glance
- Model
- Toyota Hilux (AN120 / AN130 Series)
- Production years
- 2017–2023
- Body type
- Double Cab / Single Cab Pickup Truck
- Seating capacity
- 2 or 5
- Fuel types
- Clean Diesel Turbo, Petrol
- Engine sizes
- 2,393 cc (2.4L GD-6) / 2,755 cc (2.8L GD-6) / 2,693 cc (2.7L Petrol)
- Transmission
- 6-Speed Automatic / 6-Speed Manual
- Drivetrain
- Rear-Wheel Drive (2WD) or Part-Time 4WD with Rear Diff Lock
- Ground clearance
- 286 mm
- Source market
- Thailand / South Africa / UK (RHD)
Fuel consumption
Manufacturer / import-market figures: 12.2 km/L (2.8L Diesel) / 13.8 km/L (2.4L Diesel). Tank: 80 L (about 976 km combined). Real-world use varies with load, traffic and altitude.
Running cost
- City driving
- KES 2,225 / 100 km
- Highway driving
- KES 1,565 / 100 km
- 1,000 km a month
- KES 18,603
- Full tank (80 L)
- KES 18,157
Based on petrol at KES 226.96/L, 15-10-2026 to 14-11-2026. Combined economy unless stated.
Work out a trip cost →Trims & variants
2.4 Active / 2.4 Executive / 2.4 Revo 4x4
- Setup
2.4L clean diesel (148 hp / 400 Nm), 6-speed manual or automatic, 2WD or 4x4, returning 13.8 km/L combined.
- Why it gets shipped
Low excise duty tax bracket entry with proven durability and low operational cost.
- Local consideration
Highly favored by construction firms, farms, and corporate fleet operators.
Package tiers
Hilux package tiers progress from practical Active workhorses to bold Revo Rocco and GR-Sport editions.
| Package | Level | Key features |
|---|---|---|
| Active / Workmate | Commercial utility | Heavy-duty steel wheels, vinyl/fabric interior, rear differential lock, and air conditioning. |
| Executive / Invincible | Lifestyle luxury | Leather upholstery, 8-inch touchscreen, JBL audio, Toyota Safety Sense, and 18-inch alloys. |
| Revo Rocco / GR-Sport | Flagship performance | Wide-body fender flares, GR monotube suspension, red brake calipers, and black sports bar. |
About the Toyota Hilux
Kenya enforces an 8-year age limit from manufacture month and right-hand drive compliance. In 2026, 2019 to 2023 Hilux models sit inside the direct import window.
The 2.4L GD-6 engine (2,393 cc) stays strictly below 2,500 cc, qualifying for KRA's standard 25% excise tax bracket, while 2.8L GD-6 (2,755 cc) models trigger the 35% excise tier.
Disclaimer
Tax figures are estimates based on October 2026 KRA schedules. Always verify specific chassis CRSP entries with your clearing agent prior to purchase.
