All-New Toyota Hiace Unveiled, Seats Up To 17 People

Toyota has unveiled the all-new Hiace, with the Philippines being the first country in the world the honour to market it.

Now entering its sixth generation, the all-new Hiace now adopts a new ‘semi-bonnet’ design as opposed to the traditional cab-over design. This not only increases front-collision safety protection, but also better ergonomics for occupants, as well as a reduction in noise, vibration, and harshness.

In Europe, ‘semi-bonnet’ design is the only available, as the van segment is also required to meet stringent Euro NCAP crash protection assessment. Thus, in Europe, Toyota does not offer the outgoing Hiace, but the partnership with Peugeot allow the company to offer the Toyota Proace that is based on the Peugeot Traveller.

Toyota says the all-new Hiace is built on a special revised platform and is certainly larger in all dimensions of height, width, length, and wheelbase. The wheelbase is now over 3.2 metres in the standard length, a massive 640 millimetres longer than the previous generation.

The back door continues to be a single piece that is horizontally hinged at the roof, as opposed to European brands who adopt a twin-door, side-hinged setup.

Under the new bonnet, Toyota has placed the new-generation ‘1GD’ turbo-diesel engine that currently sees duty in the Hilux and Fortuner. Certain markets such as Australia offers the option of a 3.5-litre petrol engine.

At launch, three distinct configurations are available. The “Tourism” version will feature 12 large high-backed passenger seats, interior trim covering, and other comfort amenities.

The “Commuter” version meanwhile allows business owners who require the most efficient transporter to accommodate up to 17 people.

Toyota has also included what is deemed to be an industry’s first- a centre-mounted airbag for its front-centre passenger.  Advanced driving assistance systems feature such as Lane Departure Warning and Blind Spot Monitor that also form part of the Toyota Safety Sense is being offered in the all-new Toyota Hiace.

Toyota said the all-new Hiace also expected to achieve a five-star rating in the Euro NCAP once it is officially assessed.

The company also said it will continue selling the current fifth generation Hiace in Japan due to different local market environment and requirements.