Head to head
Toyota Hilux vs Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Transporter
The Toyota Hilux is a pickup truck offered in single, extra and double cab body styles.. The Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Transporter is a medium panel van (t6.1 generation), vw's rival to the transit custom and vivaro..
Last reviewed 13 September 2026
Specifications side by side
| Toyota Hilux | Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Transporter | |
|---|---|---|
| Payload | 1205 kg (Single Cab); 1075 kg (Extra Cab); 1105 kg (Double Cab, manual); 1015 kg (Double Cab, automatic) | up to 1.28 tonnes (diesel); up to 1 tonne (electric) |
| Gross weight | 3210 kg (Double Cab) | 2800-3350 kg |
| Towing capacity | 3500 kg (braked) | up to 2.8 tonnes (diesel) |
| Load bed length | 2315 mm (Single Cab); 1525 mm (Double Cab) | - |
| Load volume | - | 5.8 m3 (SWB); 6.8 m3 (LWB) |
| Load length | - | 3050 mm (SWB (with load-through bulkhead)); 3450 mm (LWB (with load-through bulkhead)) |
Sources: Toyota Hilux, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Transporter. Figures vary by model year and options, so check with the supplier before you commit.
Buy or hire the Hilux if...
The Hilux is bought in the UK on a reputation for durability rather than outright payload, and its 3.5 tonne braked towing capacity across the range makes it a common choice for trades that also tow plant or trailers.
Full Hilux specifications →Buy or hire the Transporter if...
The Transporter is positioned above budget medium vans on cabin quality and resale value, and stays under 2 metres tall on both wheelbases so it can access multi-storey car parks that rule out taller rivals.
Full Transporter specifications →Common questions
What is the difference between the Toyota Hilux and the Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Transporter?
The Toyota Hilux is a pickup truck offered in single, extra and double cab body styles.; the Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Transporter is a medium panel van (T6.1 generation), VW's rival to the Transit Custom and Vivaro..
Can I tow the Toyota Hilux or the Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Transporter on a car licence?
Yes, as far as the licence goes. Both are rated at or under 3,500kg gross, and a car (B) licence has covered towing up to 3,500kg since 16 December 2021. Your car still has to be rated to tow the loaded weight - check the handbook or the VIN plate.
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