Toyota has taken the wraps off its new HiAce (which we know here in South Africa as the locally produced Quantum) in the Philippines, claiming it has been built on a “special revised platform” that improves comfort and safety.

Two body configurations will be offered (standard roof and high roof). Various seating layouts (with multiple rows of pews or increased storage space) will available, while up to 17 people can be accommodated in the "Commuter" versions.

The "Tourism" model will boast a "specialised interior” with a focus on comfort, while the "Van" version will feature storage space sufficiently large for “pallets from any country or region”.

Engine options will include the 2,8-litre turbodiesel from the Hilux and Fortuner (outputs have yet to be confirmed, but they shouldn't be too dissimilar to the 130 kW and 420/450 N.m offered in the aforementioned models) and a 3,5-litre naturally aspirated petrol unit.

The standard model has grown in length by a full 570 mm to 5 265 mm, in width by 255 mm to 1 950 mm and in height by 10 mm to 1 990 mm, while its wheelbase has been increased by a whopping 640 mm to 3 210 mm.

Since the launch of the first-generation model back in 1967, Toyota has sold more than 6,24 million units in over 150 countries. Currently, it is sold in Asia, the Middle East, Africa, Oceania, Mexico, and Latin America.

Following an initial launch in the Philippines, the Japanese automaker says the new model will be “gradually introduced in other countries and regions, with a focus on emerging markets”. Interestingly, the outgoing HiAce will continue to be sold in Japan “due to the different local market environment”.
Toyota HiAce

Original article from Car