Toyota has announced the pricing for its all-new HiAce models due down under mid year, with the Japanese auto giant claiming it will offer value for money along with powerful and efficient new engines, comprehensive safety features and a long list of standard equipment.
Toyota says that the new van is the first new HiAce in 15 years, and says it has been completely redesigned with a new semi-bonneted configuration to meet the needs of commercial, private, corporate and fleet buyers.
The release from Toyota says the the new nine-model HiAce range will be priced from $38,640 and kicks off with the LWB (long wheelbase) Van with a choice of a V6 petrol or a four-cylinder turbodiesel engine and a choice of six-speed manual or automatic transmissions.
The LWB Crew Van adds a second row of seats enabling it to carry up to four passengers and driver and is available exclusively with the 2.8-litre turbodiesel engine driving the rear wheels through the six-speed automatic transmission.
Starting at $48,640, the automatic-only SLWB (super long wheelbase) Van provides up to 9.0 cubic metres cargo capacity and is also offered with petrol or turbodiesel power.
Toyota vice president of sales and marketing Sean Hanley said every aspect of the all-new HiAce has been designed to expand its role .
“We focused on making the new-generation vehicle an even better tool of trade through enhanced design, increased performance, a quiet cabin, smooth ride and improved handling and agility,” Mr Hanley said.
“It’s also more refined, convenient and comfortable than ever, recognising that many owners rely on their HiAce as a mobile office and spend most of their working day inside their vehicle.
“Its impressive carrying capacity is even more flexible and user-friendly with increased internal width and height, and dual sliding side doors on van models which, for the SLWB variants, can take a standard Australian pallet.
“At the same time, we’ve built on the HiAce heritage of quality, durability and reliability – factors that underpin its strong resale values and popularity as the world’s best-selling compact commercial van. Independent studies show that HiAce has the strongest resale value in its segment, retaining 68 per cent of its value after four years1.
“We are also providing HiAce customers with the same level of safety as people who buy our passenger cars and SUVs with a full suite of advanced Toyota Safety Sense2 technologies,” Mr Hanley said.
Toyota says safety has been a major priority for the new HiAce and aside from its improved driving dynamics, all models across the entire range incorporate an extensive array of driver assistance technology as standard.
The Toyota Safety Sense suite of features includes a pre-collision safety system with pedestrian and daytime cyclist detection, lane departure alert with steering assist, road sign assist and auto high beam.
Further standard safety features include cruise control, anti-lock brakes, vehicle stability control, blind spot monitor, rear cross traffic alert, reversing camera, front and rear parking sensors and up to nine airbags depending on the model.
Offering superb driver comfort and convenience, all models feature height-adjustable driver’s seat, tilt and telescopic adjustable steering wheel, manual air conditioning and extensive storage areas with big front door bins and 1.5-litre bottle holders.
All controls for the audio, infotainment and cruise control systems are conveniently located on the steering wheel.
The latest generation multimedia system features a large 7-inch touchscreen display and offers AM/FM/DAB+ radio, CD player, full Bluetooth connectivity for audio and phone, USB and AUX inputs, satellite navigation with SUNA live traffic alerts, and voice recognition, Siri eyes-free for compatible iPhones and Toyota Link apps.
For even greater comfort, style and convenience, an option pack is also available for the new HiAce turbodiesel Vans (standard on Crew Van) that adds additional features.
The $1000 option pack includes body-coloured front and rear bumpers and door handles, halogen front fog lights and front and rear chrome trim. Inside, it adds an innovative auto-dimming digital rear view mirror that can display images from the vehicle’s rear camera when the internal view is obstructed.
In addition to offering a three-position second row bench seat with a 60/40-split fold seatback, the Crew Van also gains rear side curtain airbags, two rear ISOFIX child restraint anchors, opening rear windows and a rear vent for the air conditioning.
As well as the HiAce Vans, Toyota will continue to offer a passenger variant with the Commuter available in two grades, both powered by the turbodiesel/automatic transmission powertrain.
Based on the SLWB platform, the 12-seat Commuter incorporates passenger comfort features including reclining seat backs, front and rear interior lights, rear air conditioning with vents for every seat position and floor carpet throughout.
The Commuter GL takes the exterior style and function to a new level with body-coloured front and rear bumpers and door handles, halogen front fog lights, LED daytime running lights, chrome trim garnishes, power rear sliding door, 16-inch alloy wheels and increased sound insulation and acoustic glass.
Inside, the seats in the Commuter GL are finished in premium materials and feature a seat pocket, cupholder and coat hook integrated into the reclining seat back. Rear passengers also benefit from USB charge outlets, eight reading lights, and independent controls for the rear air conditioning.
Toyota says the new HiAce will also be covered by a full five-year Warranty.
