Toyota Hilux 2026: two popemobiles for Pope Leo XIV in Argentina

© Autoblog Argentina

The current Argentina-built Toyota Hilux is getting an unusual assignment near the end of its life cycle. Toyota Argentina has confirmed that it is preparing two pickups for Pope Leo XIV, who will visit the country from 8 to 11 November 2026.

The vehicles will be based on Hilux pickups built at the Zárate plant and will be handed over for use during the pontiff’s visit. Argentine media report that two vehicles are needed for logistical reasons: one is expected to serve in Buenos Aires and the other in Córdoba, avoiding the need to move a single popemobile between distant stops. The Holy See has officially confirmed three stops in Argentina — Buenos Aires, Córdoba and Luján — while the detailed itinerary is due to be published later.

Toyota has not disclosed the technical details. The company has not said whether the conversion will use a single-cab or double-cab Hilux, which engine will be fitted or what drivetrain will be chosen. The conversion will be carried out by a bodybuilder approved by Toyota, while construction details remain undisclosed. Reports naming a specific version, armor package or layout should therefore be treated cautiously.

The current Argentine Hilux range includes single- and double-cab bodies, 4x2 and 4x4 drivetrains, and 2.4- and 2.8-liter turbodiesel engines. Toyota has not officially revealed which configuration will underpin the popemobile. This is not the Hilux’s first papal assignment: in 2015 Pope Francis traveled around Nairobi in a converted single-cab Hilux.

That vehicle used a raised platform in the bed, seats for attendants and a transparent protective canopy. The Argentine project is also notable for its timing. Toyota officially unveiled the ninth-generation Hilux on 10 November 2025. The family gained its first fully electric version, while diesel, gasoline and electrified powertrains are offered for different markets.

The new Hilux is already reaching the European market, while the Zárate plant is still producing the familiar generation. Argentine industry sources say production of the next generation is expected to begin in December 2026, with the model’s commercial launch anticipated in 2027.

Toyota has not publicly announced exact sales dates for the new Hilux in Argentina, so that schedule remains preliminary. Argentine production is also expected to add the fully electric Hilux later. Preparations for that project are under way in Zárate, but the timing of series production for the BEV version has not been officially confirmed.

It creates a rare coincidence: just before the expected generational change in South America, the current Hilux will take on one of the most visible public roles of its career. Toyota is not building a display show car, but two working vehicles intended to support an official visit by the head of the Catholic Church.