CFAO Mobility Kenya on Thursday, October 29 introduced the ninth-generation Toyota Hilux into the local market, targeting businesses and motorists seeking greater power, improved fuel efficiency and enhanced technology as demand for pickup trucks continues to rise.
The new model, launched in Nairobi, comes as Kenya's pickup market records significant growth, with the latest industry figures pointing to increasing demand for vehicles used in construction, agriculture, logistics and other commercial activities.
The ninth-generation Hilux builds on nearly 60 years of Toyota's global pickup heritage and the legacy of eight previous generations that have served Kenyan customers. It retains the manufacturer's Quality, Durability and Reliability (QDR) philosophy while introducing improvements in performance, safety, cabin comfort and technology.
The vehicle is initially available in the 2.8-litre Double Cab automatic configuration, with two specifications: Mid and High. The Mid model will retail at Ksh7,870,000, while the High specification will cost Ksh10,840,000.
What the New Toyota Hilux Offers
Under the bonnet, the new Hilux retains Toyota's 2.8-litre 1GD turbo diesel engine, producing 150kW of power and 500Nm of torque. The engine is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission featuring Eco, Normal and Sport driving modes.
The pickup also comes with Multi-Terrain Select, allowing drivers to adjust its performance to different driving surfaces and conditions, according to independent research done by Vantage Ke.
Its four-wheel-drive system includes a motorised rear differential lock and Downhill Assist Control, features intended to improve traction and control when navigating challenging terrain.
The vehicle offers ground clearance of 312mm, a payload capacity of approximately 1,000kg and a braked towing capacity of up to 3,500kg. It also comes with an 80-litre fuel tank.
Toyota quotes fuel consumption of approximately 12 kilometres per litre, a consideration for businesses that depend on pickups for regular transportation of goods, equipment and personnel.
Inside, the new Hilux receives upgrades aimed at making long journeys and everyday operations more comfortable. The Mid specification features an eight-inch touchscreen display, an eight-speaker audio system, wireless phone charging, cruise control, front and rear parking sensors, fabric seats and 17-inch alloy wheels. The High specification adds a larger 12.3-inch touchscreen, a nine-speaker premium audio system, leather seats, an electrically adjustable driver's seat and a 360-degree peripheral camera monitor.
Other additions include power-folding side mirrors, tyre-pressure monitoring sensors, an electric parking brake and automatic dual-zone air conditioning.
Pickup Market Records Strong Growth
The launch comes against the backdrop of increased demand for commercial vehicles in Kenya. Industry figures from Kenya Motor Industry (KMI) covering January to August 2026 indicate that the new vehicle market expanded by 24.8 per cent to 10,944 units. Pickups recorded the strongest growth among vehicle categories, with sales increasing by 52.6 per cent to 2,949 units during the eight-month period.
Over the same period, Hilux sales through CFAO Mobility Kenya increased by more than 20 per cent to 850 units. The company estimates that the Hilux Double Cab accounts for approximately one in every three Double Cab pickups sold locally.
The figures reflect the importance of pickup trucks to Kenya's business environment, particularly among small and medium-sized enterprises that rely on transport vehicles to move merchandise, agricultural produce, construction materials and machinery. According to the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS), the country has approximately 7.4 million micro, small and medium enterprises, supporting close to 15 million jobs and contributing about 30 per cent of national output.
Local Assembly and After-Sales Support
Unlike vehicles imported as fully built units, the new Hilux is assembled locally through CFAO Mobility Kenya's operations. The company reintroduced local assembly of the Hilux at Completely Knocked Down (CKD) Level 2 in 2019, with the vehicle also adapted to withstand conditions associated with the Kenyan market, including heat, dust, rainfall and demanding roads.
CFAO Mobility Kenya Managing Director Arvinder Reel said the latest model was intended to build on the confidence Kenyan motorists had developed in previous generations.
"The Hilux has earned the trust of generations of Kenyan customers because it has consistently delivered what they need to get the job done. Eight generations on, the New Shujaa is our investment in the next chapter of Kenyan enterprise: tropicalised, assembled here by Kenyans, and engineered to give our customers greater efficiency and unrivalled Quality, Durability and Reliability," Reel said.
He also pointed to after-sales services as a major consideration for customers purchasing commercial vehicles, particularly businesses that depend on their vehicles to remain operational.
"Our strength lies in what happens after the sale. With the widest network in the country, genuine Toyota parts, trained technicians and a five-year or 150,000-kilometre warranty, whichever comes first, we give customers absolute peace of mind about their vehicle's performance and uptime," he added.
The company says Hilux owners can access support through more than 50 branches, dealerships and authorised service centres countrywide. It also offers financing arrangements through banking partners, with financing of up to 100 per cent available, subject to applicable terms and conditions.
More Models Expected in 2027
CFAO Mobility Kenya plans to expand the Hilux range in 2027 through the introduction of 2.4-litre and Single Cab versions. The additional models are expected to cater to customers with different commercial requirements, including businesses seeking alternatives to the more expensive Double Cab configuration.
The launch is being promoted under the 'New Shujaa' campaign, a reference to the previous Hilux generation that earned the nickname 'Shujaa wa Kazi' among Kenyan motorists. The campaign, launched during the month Kenya celebrates Mashujaa Day, seeks to recognise workers, entrepreneurs and businesses that contribute to the country's economy.
However, with the new Double Cab models priced between Ksh7.87 million and Ksh10.84 million, the latest Hilux enters the market as a significant investment, particularly for small businesses weighing vehicle acquisition costs against durability, operating expenses and long-term maintenance.
Its reception will depend not only on its performance and upgraded features but also on whether its pricing and running costs make commercial sense for Kenyan buyers.
