The Toyota Hilux Double Cab VII, specifically the facelifted version introduced in 2011, represents a significant iteration of Toyota’s globally renowned pickup truck. This generation, produced from 2005 to 2015 (with the facelift spanning 2011-2015), was designed to balance robust workhorse capability with increased comfort and practicality for family use. While the Hilux has a long history in numerous markets, the Double Cab variant gained prominence as a versatile vehicle appealing to both commercial and private buyers. This article focuses on the 2.5 D-4D 4WD model, a common configuration in many international markets, and details its specifications and features.
Toyota Hilux Double Cab VII (2011-2015): A Global Workhorse
The Hilux is not widely known in the United States, as Toyota historically focused on larger trucks like the Tacoma and Tundra for the American market. However, the Hilux holds a dominant position in markets like Australia, Europe, Asia, Africa, and South America, celebrated for its legendary reliability and off-road prowess. The Double Cab version, offering seating for five passengers, broadened the Hilux’s appeal beyond purely utilitarian applications. The 2011 facelift brought cosmetic updates, improved efficiency, and refinements to the interior, solidifying its position as a leading mid-size pickup globally.
Engine & Performance
The 2011-2015 Toyota Hilux Double Cab VII 2.5 D-4D 4WD is powered by the 2KD-FTV 2.5-liter inline-four diesel engine. This engine produces 144 horsepower at 3400 rpm and 343 Nm (252.98 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1600 and 2800 rpm. The engine utilizes a diesel common rail fuel injection system and a turbocharger with an intercooler to optimize power and efficiency. The 2.5-liter displacement provides a good balance between fuel economy and the torque necessary for hauling and towing. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes approximately 13.3 seconds, while 0 to 60 mph is achieved in around 12.6 seconds. The vehicle has a maximum speed of 170 km/h (105.63 mph). Fuel economy is rated at 7.3 liters per 100 kilometers combined (32.2 US mpg, 38.7 UK mpg), with 8.6 l/100 km (27.4 US mpg) in urban settings and 6.6 l/100 km (35.6 US mpg) on the open road. The engine meets Euro 5 emission standards and incorporates a particulate filter to reduce harmful emissions.
Design & Features
The Hilux Double Cab VII is a five-door pickup truck with a separate cabin and bed configuration. The Double Cab body style provides ample space for passengers in the rear seats, making it suitable for family transport. The 2011 facelift included revisions to the front grille, headlights, and bumper, giving the vehicle a more modern appearance. The interior was also updated with improved materials and a revised dashboard layout. Key features include a robust four-wheel-drive system, offering excellent off-road capability, and a manual five-speed transmission. Safety features, while not as extensive as modern vehicles, include an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). The Hilux Double Cab is designed for practicality, with a trunk (bed) volume of 900 liters (31.78 cu. ft.). The vehicle’s maximum weight capacity is 2690 kg (5930.43 lbs), and it can tow a braked trailer of up to 2500 kg (5511.56 lbs). The roof can handle a load of up to 50 kg (110.23 lbs).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Toyota |
| Model | Hilux |
| Generation | Hilux Double Cab VII (facelift 2011) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.5 D-4D (144 Hp) 4WD |
| Start of production | 2011 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.6 l/100 km (27.4 US mpg, 32.8 UK mpg, 11.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.6 l/100 km (35.6 US mpg, 42.8 UK mpg, 15.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.3 l/100 km (32.2 US mpg, 38.7 UK mpg, 13.7 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 194 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 13.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 13.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 170 km/h (105.63 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Power | 144 Hp @ 3400 rpm |
| Torque | 343 Nm @ 1600-2800 rpm (252.98 lb.-ft. @ 1600-2800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 2KD-FTV |
| Engine displacement | 2494 cm3 (152.19 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 92 mm (3.62 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 93.8 mm (3.69 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 15.6:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.9 l (7.29 US qt | 6.07 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 9 l (9.51 US qt | 7.92 UK qt) |
| Max. weight | 2690 kg (5930.43 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 900 l (31.78 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 80 l (21.13 US gal | 17.6 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 50 kg (110.23 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2500 kg (5511.56 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 5260 mm (207.09 in.) |
| Width | 1760 mm (69.29 in.) |
| Height | 1850 mm (72.83 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3085 mm (121.46 in.) |
| Front track | 1510 mm (59.45 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1510 mm (59.45 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 13.2 m (43.31 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Leaf spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 205/80 R16C |
| Wheel rims size | 6J x 16 |
The Toyota Hilux Double Cab VII (2011-2015) 2.5 D-4D 4WD remains a popular choice in many parts of the world, valued for its durability, reliability, and versatility. Its combination of work-oriented capability and passenger comfort makes it a practical vehicle for a wide range of applications.
