Head to head
Toyota Hilux vs Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Crafter
The Toyota Hilux tows 500kg more and carries 144kg more.
Last reviewed 13 September 2026
Key differences
- Towing capacity: the Toyota Hilux tows 500kg more.
- Payload: the Toyota Hilux carries 144kg more.
Specifications side by side
| Toyota Hilux | Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Crafter | |
|---|---|---|
| Payload | 1205 kg (Single Cab); 1075 kg (Extra Cab); 1105 kg (Double Cab, manual); 1015 kg (Double Cab, automatic) | 1061-1229 kg (Medium CR35, 3.5t); 881-1117 kg (Long CR35, 3.5t); 2352-2410 kg (Medium CR50, 5.0t) |
| Towing capacity | 3500 kg (braked) | up to 3000 kg braked (3.5t models); up to 3500 kg braked (5.0t CR50) |
| Load bed length | 2315 mm (Single Cab); 1525 mm (Double Cab) | - |
| Gross weight | 3210 kg (Double Cab) | - |
| Load volume | - | 9.9-11.3 m3 (Medium); 14.4-16.1 m3 (Long); 16.4-18.4 m3 (Long Maxi) |
| Load length | - | 4855 mm (Long Maxi) |
Sources: Toyota Hilux, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Crafter. Figures vary by model year and options, so check with the supplier before you commit.
Buy or hire the Hilux if...
- you want one that tows 500kg more
- you want one that carries 144kg more
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 Crafter if...
The Crafter's wide GVW range, up to a 5.0t CR50 derivative, lets it cover jobs that would otherwise need a 7.5t truck, and it is commonly chosen by fleets that also want a driver-friendly cab.
Full Crafter specifications →Common questions
What is the difference between the Toyota Hilux and the Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Crafter?
The Toyota Hilux tows 500kg more and carries 144kg more. The Toyota Hilux is a pickup truck offered in single, extra and double cab body styles.; the Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Crafter is a large panel van offered from 3.0t to 5.0t GVW, VW's rival to the Sprinter and Transit..
Which carries more, the Toyota Hilux or the Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Crafter?
The Toyota Hilux, by 144kg.
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