Toyota HiLux vs LDV Terron 9
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 LDV Terron 9 opens at $50,990. That makes the Toyota HiLux the more affordable entry point by $17,000.
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 $56,089 respectively.
Over 5 years, the running costs are nearly identical since both have similar efficiency.
Safety Rundown
Both the Toyota HiLux and LDV Terron 9 hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating. Adult occupant protection scored 84% for the Toyota HiLux and 91% for the LDV Terron 9.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The LDV Terron 9 packs more ADAS features with 6 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 7 in the LDV Terron 9.
Feature Showdown
The Toyota HiLux features a 12.3-inch touchscreen, while the LDV Terron 9 gets a 12.3-inch display and 12.3-inch instruments. 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 LDV Terron 9. The LDV Terron 9 counters with Apple CarPlay and MG Sound audio. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Interior trim differs: the Toyota HiLux gets fabric upholstery while the LDV Terron 9 offers cloth.
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 LDV Terron 9 responds with a Diesel Turbo making 163kW and 520Nm, paired to a automatic driving the rear wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 10.8 seconds.
The LDV Terron 9 has the clear power advantage at 163kW vs 150kW. In the real-world sprint, the Toyota HiLux is 0.6s 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, 120mm shorter than the LDV Terron 9 at 5,500mm (3,300mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the LDV Terron 9 generally means more rear legroom.
0For towing, the LDV Terron 9 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 13.3m
Based on 10.8m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Based on 13.3m 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 $2,252/year for the LDV Terron 9. That is a $171 annual difference in favour of the Toyota HiLux.
Estimated annual total: $2,081 (Toyota HiLux) vs $2,252 (LDV Terron 9). The Toyota HiLux saves you roughly $171 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 / 200,000km (LDV Terron 9). The LDV Terron 9 has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Toyota HiLux if: You want the lower entry price, want lower running costs, or prefer Toyota's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the LDV Terron 9 if: You prioritise performance, value a longer warranty, need stronger towing, or prefer LDV's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
This is genuinely close. The Toyota HiLux and LDV Terron 9 trade blows across the spec sheet, and neither runs away with an outright win. The Toyota HiLux will save you roughly $171 a year in fuel. The LDV Terron 9 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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