Toyota HiLux vs KGM Musso
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular Utes compare on price, running costs, safety, and everyday livability.
Specifications and pricing correct at time of publishing. Prices are RRP before on-road costs unless stated otherwise. Always confirm with the manufacturer or dealer before purchasing.
Price Breakdown
The Toyota HiLux starts from $33,990 before on-road costs, while the KGM Musso opens at $40,500. That makes the Toyota HiLux the more affordable entry point by $6,510.
Once you factor in stamp duty, registration, CTP insurance, and dealer delivery, expect to add roughly 8-12% on top of the RRP depending on your state. That puts estimated driveaway prices in the ballpark of $37,389 and $44,550 respectively.
Over 5 years, the running costs favour the Toyota HiLux by roughly $1,850 in fuel alone.
Safety Rundown
Both the Toyota HiLux and KGM Musso hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The Toyota HiLux packs more ADAS features with 3 out of 10 key systems fitted, compared to 1 in the KGM Musso.
Both include the essentials: autonomous emergency braking, a reversing camera. Airbag count is 8 in the Toyota HiLux and 6 in the KGM Musso.
Feature Showdown
The Toyota HiLux features a 12.3-inch touchscreen, while the KGM Musso gets a 12.3-inch display. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The Toyota HiLux stands out with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto that you will not find on the KGM Musso. The KGM Musso counters with Apple CarPlay and ambient lighting. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Interior trim differs: the Toyota HiLux gets fabric upholstery while the KGM Musso offers leather.
Drivetrain
The Toyota HiLux uses a 2.8L 4-cyl Turbo-Diesel producing 150kW and 420Nm of torque, sent through a manual to a 4x2 layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 10.2 seconds.
The KGM Musso responds with a Turbo DDi Diesel making 133kW and 400Nm, paired to a 6-speed automatic driving the rear wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 10.9 seconds.
The Toyota HiLux has the clear power advantage at 150kW vs 133kW. In the real-world sprint, the Toyota HiLux is 0.7s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The Toyota HiLux measures 5,380mm long on a 3,085mm wheelbase, 275mm longer than the KGM Musso at 5,105mm (3,000mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Toyota HiLux generally means more rear legroom.
0For towing, the KGM Musso leads with a 3,500kg braked capacity vs 2,900kg. That 600kg difference matters if you regularly hitch up.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
10.8m to 12.2m
Based on 10.8m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Based on 12.2m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
True Cost to Own
Based on 15,000km of annual driving, fuel costs roughly $2,081/year for the Toyota HiLux and $2,451/year for the KGM Musso. That is a $370 annual difference in favour of the Toyota HiLux.
Estimated annual total: $2,081 (Toyota HiLux) vs $2,451 (KGM Musso). The Toyota HiLux saves you roughly $370 per year in total ownership costs. Use our Fuel Cost Calculator to estimate based on your driving.
Warranty: 5 years / 999,999km (Toyota HiLux) vs 7 years / 999,999km (KGM Musso). The KGM Musso has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Toyota HiLux if: You want the lower entry price, prioritise performance, want lower running costs, or prefer Toyota's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the KGM Musso if: You value a longer warranty, need stronger towing, or prefer KGM's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Toyota HiLux takes 4 of 7 key spec categories and comes in at a lower price. The Toyota HiLux will save you roughly $370 a year in fuel. The KGM Musso adds peace of mind with a longer 7-year warranty. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Disclaimer: All information in this comparison was believed to be correct at the time of publishing (20 April 2026). Prices are manufacturer recommended retail prices (RRP) and may vary by state, dealer, and options. Driveaway costs include estimated on-road costs for Victoria. Fuel economy figures are WLTP/ADR combined cycle. Specifications can change without notice. Always verify with the manufacturer before making a purchase decision. CarSorted does not accept payment for recommendations.
Published by CarSorted Editorial Team · 20 April 2026
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