Toyota Hilux VIII (AN120/AN130) (2015 – 2020)

Reliability score : 8.5/10

The eighth generation of the Toyota Hilux (AN120/AN130 series) was launched in 2015, marking a major evolution for the world's best-selling pickup. While retaining its legendary ladder frame chassis and bulletproof robustness, this iteration focused on ride comfort, soundproofing, and perceived cabin quality to compete with increasingly 'SUV-like' rivals (such as the Ford Ranger). It inaugurates the new 'Global Diesel' (GD) family of diesel engines, designed to offer more low-end torque and better efficiency. Although the model underwent a major facelift in late 2020 (with a power increase), the 2015-2020 period represents the first phase of this generation. Overall, the Hilux VIII remains the absolute benchmark for commercial reliability, although it experienced some teething problems wit

✅ Strengths

⚠️ Weaknesses

🎯 Verdict

The eighth-generation Toyota Hilux (2015-2020) remains the undisputed king of the commercial pickup category. If you are looking for a vehicle to work hard, tow, or do intensive off-roading, there is no better choice on the used market. However, its transition to modern emission standards has blemished its perfect reliability record: the 2.4 and 2.8 diesel engines (GD family) from 2015 to 2018 suffer from chronic FAP issues if they are not used under load or on long trips. Buying advice: Favor a model from late 2018 onwards (equipped with the manual FAP regeneration button) or ensure that the Toyota software updates have been performed. Avoid examples that have been driven exclusively in the city.

Common issues

Problèmes de filtre à particules diesel (FAP) Medium
🔧 80 000 – 150 000 km
💶 200 – 2 500 € (nettoyage à remplacement)
Privilégier les longs trajets réguliers pour éviter l'encrassement.
Usure ou défaillance des injecteurs diesel High
🔧 100 000 – 180 000 km
💶 1 600 – 3 200 € (pour 4 injecteurs)
Écouter le moteur, vérifier les fumées et l'historique d'entretien.
Encrassement de la vanne EGR Medium
🔧 80 000 – 160 000 km
💶 150 – 800 € (nettoyage à remplacement)
Surveiller les performances moteur et les voyants d'alerte.
Usure prématurée des composants de suspension Medium
🔧 100 000 – 200 000 km
💶 400 – 1 000 € (par essieu)
Vérifier l'état visuel et tester le véhicule sur route variée.

Estimated maintenance costs

Oil change £80 – 150
Timing chain £700 – 1 300
Clutch £900 – 1 600
Complete brakes £350 – 650
Estimated annual budget £700 – 1 400

Indicative estimates (independent garage, UK market). Prices vary by region and year.