2015 Toyota Hilux Extra Cab Photos, engines & full specs

When it introduced the eighth generation of the Hilux in 2015, Toyota didn’t forget that some of its customers wanted a middle ground between the Single Cab and the Double Cab version, so it created the Extra Cab.

With its two-door, albeit longer, cabin than the Single Cab, the 2015 Toyota Hilux Extra Cab was one step behind its Double Cab brother. It was the vehicle that could, eventually, carry four onboard, even though nobody wanted to be seated there. However, it provided a longer loading area than the Double Cab and was more comfortable than the Extended Cab, thanks to the longer cabin. In addition, it was an appreciated vehicle for those who used it to carry ATVs or other gear on their off-road trips.

At the front, the 2015 Toyota Hilux Extra Cab had a completely new look on the front fascia. It featured wider headlights than its predecessor, featuring a wedged shape with swept-back lines slightly lifted towards the sides. In addition, Toyota added 12 LEDs for the daytime running lights. They flanked a two-slat grille, where the chromed badge of the automaker took center stage. All versions received a body-colored bumper with an integrated trapezoidal air intake flanked by rhomboidal scoops with available fog lamps.

From its sides, the pickup revealed its true nature as an adventure-seeker. The lower trim levels relied on steel wheels, while the upper trims received standard alloy ones. Unlike its Single Cab sibling, it sported body-colored door mirrors with integrated turn signals. The door handles were available with a chromed finish. For the rear suicide doors, Toyota installed pop-out windows, which helped customers vent the cabin faster.

Inside, the automaker created a user-friendly interior, even if some of the materials were hard plastics. However, the dashboard had a fresh look with a car-like design. Depending on the market, the Hilux came with a standard rearview camera integrated into the upper side of the dash, while on the center stack, Toyota installed a choice of audio systems, including an infotainment unit with a touchscreen. The high-mounted front seats were comfortable and, depending on the grade were covered with fabric or leather. In contrast, the two jump seats in the back barely provided any legroom since the cabin was almost one foot (300 mm) shorter than the Double Cab.

However, the most significant upgrade for the eighth generation of the Hilux was found under its skin. The body-on-frame pickup relied on a sturdier, thicker chassis than on the seventh generation of this nameplate. It featured 120 more welding points than its predecessor and had improved longer travel suspension. Under the hood, Toyota installed a choice of two engines with a 2.4-liter and a 2.8-liter displacement. They were paired as standard with a six-speed manual gearbox while a fresh six-speed automatic was available. Vehicles fitted with a 4x4 system had a turn-knob selector on the dashboard instead of a lever, and the SR and SR+ grades featured a locking rear differential.