The Toyota HiLux Rogue MY26 Dual Cab 4x4 continues a legacy that few vehicles in Australia can match. For decades, the HiLux name has been synonymous with reliability, toughness, and the ability to handle everything from job sites and towing duties to remote outback tracks and weekend adventures.
Rather than chasing trends or radically changing what already works, Toyota has taken a measured and practical approach with the MY26 update. This latest HiLux builds on a proven foundation, introducing smarter technology, improved safety, refined suspension, and enhanced towing capability—while keeping the core mechanical package that Australians trust.
For buyers considering a premium dual-cab ute in 2026, the Rogue sits right in the sweet spot between comfort, capability, and long-term ownership confidence.
What Makes the HiLux Rogue MY26 Different?
The MY26 HiLux may be described as “ninth-generation,” but it’s best understood as a serious evolution rather than a full redesign. Toyota’s philosophy of continuous improvement means the changes are meaningful, even if they don’t shout about it.
Key MY26 upgrades include:
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Updated exterior styling for a tougher, more modern look
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New dashboard layout with larger digital screens
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Expanded Toyota Safety Sense features
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Revised suspension tuning for better ride comfort
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Increased Gross Combination Mass (GCM) for towing
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Mild-hybrid technology on automatic variants
These updates make the HiLux Rogue easier to live with every day, while still being ready for hard work when needed.
Toyota HiLux Rogue MY26 Engine, Features & Specs
Under the bonnet, Toyota has stuck with what it knows works best in Australian conditions.
Engine & Drivetrain
The HiLux Rogue MY26 is powered by Toyota’s 1GD-FTV 2.8-litre turbo-diesel four-cylinder engine, a unit well known for its durability and strong low-down torque.
Engine specifications:
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Engine: 2.8L turbo-diesel, 4-cylinder
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Power: 150kW
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Torque: 500Nm (automatic) / 420Nm (manual)
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Transmission: 6-speed automatic or 6-speed manual
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Drivetrain: Part-time 4x4 with low range
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Fuel type: Diesel
Automatic versions of the Rogue also benefit from Toyota’s 48-volt mild-hybrid (V-Active) system, which:
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Smooths stop-start operation
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Assists low-speed acceleration
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Improves drivability in traffic
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Slightly improves fuel efficiency
This setup makes the Rogue well suited to towing, highway cruising, and off-road crawling, without introducing unnecessary complexity.
Towing, Payload & Chassis Improvements
One of the most important MY26 updates is underneath the vehicle.
Toyota has strengthened the chassis with:
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Reinforced side rails
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Additional welds for rigidity
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New hydraulic engine mounts
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Improved noise and vibration insulation
Towing & Load Specs
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Maximum braked towing capacity: 3500kg
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Gross Combination Mass (GCM): 6300kg
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Improved payload capacity when towing
This makes the MY26 HiLux Rogue far more practical for towing caravans, trailers, boats, and work equipment.
If you’re setting your HiLux up for towing, touring, or heavy-duty use, Universal Auto Spares stocks a wide range of:
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Towbar accessories
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Brake controllers
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Suspension upgrades
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Filters, brake pads, and driveline parts
Exterior Design – Tough Without Trying Too Hard
The MY26 HiLux Rogue adopts Toyota’s new “Cyber Sumo” design, giving it a stronger and more aggressive stance without sacrificing practicality.
Rogue exterior highlights include:
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Slim LED headlights with auto-levelling
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LED tail lights and rear fog light
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18-inch matte black alloy wheels
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Blacked-out TOYOTA tailgate badge
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Unique Rogue sports bar and bumper
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Electric roller shutter tub cover
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Marine-grade carpet tub liner
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Factory towing package with brake controller
Importantly, Toyota has kept the overall dimensions unchanged, which means:
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Existing accessories still fit
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Aftermarket parts compatibility remains excellent
That’s a big win for owners who want easy access to replacement and upgrade parts from Universal Auto Spares.
Interior – More Modern, Still Built to Last
Inside, the MY26 HiLux Rogue feels noticeably more modern than before, without losing its tough, utilitarian DNA.
Cabin & Technology Features
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New three-tier dashboard design
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12.3-inch digital instrument cluster
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12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system
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Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
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Built-in satellite navigation
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Voice recognition and Toyota Connected Services
The Rogue also includes the Premium Interior Package as standard, adding:
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Leather-accented seats
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Heated front seats and steering wheel
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8-way power driver’s seat with lumbar support
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JBL 9-speaker premium sound system
While some rivals offer more luxurious materials, Toyota’s focus remains on durability—something long-term owners appreciate.
Ride Comfort & On-Road Driving
Toyota has introduced variant-specific suspension tuning, and the Rogue benefits from a softer setup aimed at everyday comfort.
On the road, the Rogue feels:
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Stable at highway speeds
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More comfortable than previous HiLux models
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Confident when towing or loaded
The new Electric Power Steering (EPS) improves low-speed manoeuvrability while reducing feedback on rough roads.
For maintenance items like brake pads, suspension components, filters, and steering parts, Universal Auto Spares makes it easy to keep your HiLux driving at its best.
Off-Road Performance – Still a HiLux Strength
Off-road capability remains a major reason people buy a HiLux, and the Rogue MY26 does not disappoint.
Off-road features include:
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Dual-range transfer case (2H, 4H, 4L)
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Rear locking differential (automatic variants)
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Multi-Terrain Select traction control
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Multi-Terrain Monitor camera system
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Excellent wheel articulation and clearance
Whether you’re tackling fire trails, sand, mud, or rocky climbs, the HiLux’s traction control and low-range gearing work exceptionally well.
If you’re planning off-road trips, Universal Auto Spares can help with:
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Underbody protection
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Filters for dusty conditions
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Brake upgrades
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Lighting and electrical accessories
Safety & Driver Assistance
The MY26 HiLux Rogue retains a five-star ANCAP safety rating and adds new driver assistance features.
Standard safety includes:
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Autonomous Emergency Braking
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Pedestrian, cyclist & motorcycle detection
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Intersection collision assist
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Blind spot monitoring
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Rear cross-traffic alert
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Lane departure alert with steering feedback
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Emergency Driving Stop System
These updates make the Rogue safer for families, commuters, and fleet users alike.
Is the Toyota HiLux Rogue MY26 Worth Buying?
The HiLux Rogue MY26 isn’t the cheapest ute, the flashiest, or the most powerful on paper. But it doesn’t need to be.
What it offers is:
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Proven reliability
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Excellent resale value
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Strong towing and off-road ability
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A massive support network
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Easy access to parts and servicing
For Australians who plan to keep their ute long term, tow regularly, or travel remote areas, the HiLux Rogue remains one of the safest and smartest choices on the market.
And when it comes time for servicing, repairs, or upgrades, Universal Auto Spares is your one-stop shop for HiLux parts—delivered Australia-wide.
