Toyota's Hi-Ace Siyaya is synonymous with the country's taxi industry, but the company plans to extend it reach in the LCV segment with the Quantum's recent introduction.Toyota's Hi-Ace Siyaya is synonymous with the country's taxi industry, but the company plans to extend it reach in the LCV segment with the Quantum's recent introduction.

Available in standard- and long-wheelbase versions, the fully imported Quantum replaces the dated Hi Ace and Stallion vans. The 16-seater Siyaya will still be produced (at just under R170 000) to cater to the taxi industry.

Panel vans are available in both wheelbases, though the 14-seat commuter bus is only offered with the longer body. Load capacities for the three models range from one- to 1,3 tonne, and Code 8 licences are the only driving requirements.

All vehicles are equipped with a choice of new commercial 2,5-litre diesel or 2,7-litre petrol engines, which are both being used in South Africa for the first time.

The four-cylinder, 16-valve 2,7-litre petrol engine (with double overhead camshafts) produces maximum power of 111 kW at 4 800 r/min and peak torque of 241 N.m at 3 800 r/min. Almost 80 per cent of the torque is available from 1 400 r/min to over 5 000 r/min.

The new four-cylinder, 16-valve 2,5-litre diesel engine uses a high pressure common-rail direct fuel injection system and is fitted with a compact turbocharger. Its range of electronic controls includes a drive-by-wire throttle system and advanced functions for lower noise levels and improved torque at low engine speeds.

This engine uses an aluminium cylinder head with double overhead camshafts and produces maximum power of 75 kW at 3 600 r/min. Peak torque of 260 N.m is produced between 1 600 and 2 400 r/min, of which about 200 N.m is available between 1 200 and 3 500 r/min.

Besides its new engine line-up, the Quantum is equipped with range of safety and comfort features. While the exterior is handsomely utilitarian, the interior design (and cabin in particular) is uncluttered and simple in its layout.

The gearshift lever is mounted to the left of the instrument cluster and beneath the dashboard, rather than on the floor. This provides a comfortable shift position, particularly when the third seat is used in the panel van.

The centre seatback folds forward to form a useful centre console with additional cupholders, an A4-sized storage compartment and a work surface. In addition, the cabin also provides generous storage spaces with two glove boxes, a tray under the dashboard and several smaller storage areas.

Lighting is provided in the cargo area, and on the 14-seater bus the air-conditioning ducts (with independent outlets above the seats) are incorporated into the rear roof lining.

An air conditioner is standard on the 14-seater, as is an RDS radio/CD player. These items are available as dealer-fitted options on the two panel van derivatives. Electric front windows and a rear heater are also listed as standard equipment on the bus.

A tilt adjustable steering column is fitted to all models with power steering (with engine speed sensitivity) standard across the range.

The long wheelbase panel van and the bus are fitted with ABS brakes enabled with brake assist, and driver and passenger airbags as standard equipment.

A key operated central locking system is provided across the range and, as an added security feature, the Quantum is the first vehicle from Toyota SA to feature Microdot protection.

Both engine derivatives require services at 10 000 km intervals. The Quantum is covered by a 100 000 km/two-year warranty and a service plan.

Prices:

Quantum 2,7 Panel Van R175 000

Quantum 2,5 Panel Van R185 000

Quantum 2,7 Panel Van (LWB) R203 000

Quantum 2,5 Panel Van (LWB) R213 000

Quantum 2,7 Bus R235 000

Quantum 2,5 Bus R245 000

Original article from Car