Toyota HiLux vs KGM Musso EV
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 EV opens at $60,000. That makes the Toyota HiLux the more affordable entry point by $26,010.
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 $66,000 respectively.
The KGM Musso EV qualifies for FBT exemption as an electric vehicle, which can dramatically reduce the effective cost for novated lease buyers. The Toyota HiLux, as a petrol model, does not qualify.
Safety Rundown
Both the Toyota HiLux and KGM Musso EV hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The KGM Musso EV packs more ADAS features with 7 out of 10 key systems fitted, compared to 3 in the Toyota HiLux.
Both include the essentials: autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist, a reversing camera. Airbag count is 8 in the Toyota HiLux and 8 in the KGM Musso EV. The KGM Musso EV adds a 360-degree camera that the Toyota HiLux misses.
Feature Showdown
The Toyota HiLux features a 12.3-inch touchscreen, while the KGM Musso EV 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 EV. The KGM Musso EV counters with Apple CarPlay, heated front seats, ventilated seats, V2L 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 EV 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 EV responds with a Electric making 152kW and 339Nm, paired to a 1-speed driving the rear wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 10.9 seconds.
The KGM Musso EV has the clear power advantage at 152kW vs 150kW. 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, 220mm longer than the KGM Musso EV at 5,160mm (3,150mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the KGM Musso EV generally means more rear legroom.
0For towing, the Toyota HiLux leads with a 2,900kg braked capacity vs 1,800kg. That 1,100kg 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
Running cost data is not yet available for both models. We will update when figures are confirmed.
Warranty: 5 years / 999,999km (Toyota HiLux) vs 7 years / 999,999km (KGM Musso EV). The KGM Musso EV has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Toyota HiLux if: You want the lower entry price, need stronger towing, or prefer Toyota's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the KGM Musso EV if: You prioritise performance, value a longer warranty, or prefer KGM's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The KGM Musso EV takes 4 of 7 key spec categories. The KGM Musso EV 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.
Common questions
Which is cheapest, Toyota HiLux and KGM Musso EV?
The Toyota HiLux is the cheapest at $33,990 before on-road costs. That undercuts the KGM Musso EV by $26,010.
Which is the most fuel-efficient?
The Toyota HiLux uses the least fuel at 7.3L/100km on the combined cycle.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched — Toyota HiLux and KGM Musso EV all hold a 5-star ANCAP rating. Compare the active-safety features above to separate them.
Which has the most boot space?
The KGM Musso EV has the largest boot at 532L.
Which can tow the most?
The Toyota HiLux has the highest braked towing capacity at 2,900kg.
Which has the best warranty?
The KGM Musso EV has the longest warranty at 7 years / 1000k km.
Which is the most powerful?
The KGM Musso EV makes the most power at 152kW. The Toyota HiLux is quickest to 100km/h in 10.2s.
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.
Auto-generated from CarSorted's specification data · 20 April 2026
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