Toyota HiLux to share underpinnings with Tacoma, Tundra

The next-generation version of the Toyota HiLux will be built on a new global ute platform, according to a report from Automotive News.

The new platform - reportedly known as F1 internally - will underpin all global ute / pick-up truck models internationally, including the HiLux, Tacoma and Tundra, the report claims.

In recent years Toyota has introduced a global platform for its passenger cars, dubbed Toyota New Generation Architecture, which underpins the new Corolla, Prius, C-HR, RAV4, Camry and more.

The new hardcore ute architecture is not only expected to form the basis of the brand's pick-up trucks in global markets, but also the spin-off SUVs that are spawned from each of those respective models - the Fortuner, 4Runner and Seqouia.

In the US, the Tacoma and Tundra are built at the same plant in San Antonio, and the demand for the former is so strong that the company throttles the number of the larger utes it builds.

One big question is whether Toyota will also use the alleged all-new platform to build new-generation versions of the Prado and LandCruiser 200 Series - the current-gen Prado has been on sale for 10 years, while the larger Land Cruiser harks back to 2007.

It's expected that the new-generation ute models (and the SUV tie-in models) will include electrified variants, including mild-hybrid (48-volt) and plug-in hybrid versions of some of the models.

CarsGuide contacted Toyota Australia for comment on what this could mean for Australia - there is no comment as yet, but if we hear back from the company we will update this story.

Are you ready for a new HiLux? Tell us in the comments.