Toyota HiLux vs Renault Master
What's the difference?

Toyota HiLux

$33,990 - $82,990

2026 price

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Renault Master

$52,200 - $68,700

2026 price

View pricing & specs

Mercedes-Benz G-Class

Mercedes-Benz GLB

Mercedes-Benz Sprinter

Mercedes-Benz Vito

Mercedes-Benz X-Class

Volkswagen Transporter

Volvo C40

Summary

2026 Toyota HiLux

2026 Renault Master

By Mark Oastler

By Byron Mathioudakis

Safety Rating

Electric motor type

Permanent Magnet

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Vehicle type

Battery Electric

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Electric range

315 km

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Energy consumption

20.2 kWh/100km

Battery capacity

59.20 kWh

Seating

Likes

Zero tailpipe emissions
Silent powertrain
Zippy response

Modern presentation inside and out
Enjoyable to drive
As practical as ever

Dislikes

High price
Short driving range
Limited GVM/GCM ratings

No adaptive cruise control option
No traditional van grab handles inside
No hybrid availability

2026 Toyota HiLux Summary

Toyota claims its first HiLux BEV (Battery Electric Vehicle) has been designed primarily with mining, business and government fleet customers in mind, by combining the iconic ute’s 4x4 all-terrain capability with zero tailpipe emissions only a full-electric drivetrain can deliver.

To prove its suitability for harsh Aussie conditions, Toyota claims the HiLux BEV has undergone more than two years of testing on site with major mining companies, covering thousands of kilometres in ambient temperatures up to 50 degrees.

We recently sampled the HiLux BEV as a daily driver in metropolitan use, to see if its mining-focused credentials translate to being a practical alternative to traditional diesel power for tradies working in busy urban environments.

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2026 Renault Master Summary

It's only taken the whole decade so far, but the 3.5-tonne van – you know, the really, really big ones – has finally been dragged into the 2020s with the latest version of the Renault Master.

Now in its fourth generation since 1980, this oversized box on wheels from France is said to leapfrog all its ageing rivals as a result, including the Fiat Ducato, Ford Transit, LDV Deliver9, Mercedes-Benz Sprinter and Volkswagen Crafter that all debuted some years ago now.

So, how does France’s big new van fare? And where’s the promised all-electric version? Read on to find out.

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Deep dive comparison

2026 Toyota HiLux 2026 Renault Master

Verdict

Given the HiLux BEV was developed in close cooperation with mining companies, its relatively short driving range appears tailor-made for that role given the daily driving distances (typically around 150km or less) in underground and open-cut mining operations. However, determining if our SR5 test vehicle is equally well suited to urban tradie duties would require careful analysis of driving range and payload/towing requirements, to determine if its emissions-free high purchase price can be justified.

Verdict

There is a lot to like about the latest Renault Master. Leaning on five decades of experience, it proves France knows how to build a comfortable, versatile, practical, enjoyable and quite attractive large van for this decade. A few disappointing specification anomalies do not ultimately detract from a fine, premium workhorse/plaything proposition.

Note: CarsGuide attended this event as a guest of the manufacturer, with travel, accommodation and meals provided.

Toyota HiLux vs Renault Master What's the difference?

Summary

Deep dive comparison

Verdict

Verdict

Toyota HiLux vs Renault Master
What's the difference?