2020 Toyota Hiace Thailand
Toyota has finally released its six-generation Hiace and it is bigger, better and faster. It took Toyota 15 years to release a new version. They thought if it ain’t broke, why fix it. Now that they have thought of fixing it, it is a great try. It has bigger dimensions so can accommodate more passengers.
The biggest change besides its extended length and new engine is its front shape. After sticking with “cab over” design for over 50 years it is now trying a hood in front. This will keep us safe during a crash. The front is enhanced by sleek upswept headlights, a huge grill, a nice looking bumper and large lower air intake to give engine that punch for greater performance. It now comes with multi-spoke rims. Larger taillights and a new tailgate are the only remarkable changes to the rear.
Safety features have been enhanced. HIace now comes with collision detection system and autonomous emergency braking (which can detect and avoid both pedestrians and cyclists). Rearview camera is also a standard. Toyota will also offer an optional digital ‘rear-view mirror’ to help drivers see through cargo and passengers.
Toyota Hiace competes with Nissan Urvan, Hyundai H1 or iLoad, Ford Transit and Renault Trafic.
Toyota Hiace Delivery Van
For the new generation, Toyota has given the HiAce a cargo capacity of 6.2 cubic metres for the long wheelbase van and 9.3 cubic metres for its super-long wheelbase sibling. That’s a 0.2 cubic metre increase for the former, but a 0.5 cubic metre reduction for the latter.
Wheelbases have been stretched and internal width and height have been increased over the old car (by 215mm and 5mm respectively). It is rumored that the delivery van will be offered only in standard roof. Towing capacity has been boosted by 500kg, with some variants able to lug a maximum of 1900kg of braked trailer.
Toyota Hiace Interior
Ergonomics has been improved in the new Hiace. The semi-bonnet design offers a more natural seating posture, while the door profile provides a wider step area for driver and front passenger. The glasshouse also extends further down to aid driver vision.
Toyota Hiace Performance
Diesel 3000 cc engine of the old Hiace will be replaced by the new 1GD 2800 cc engine. This turbo diesel four-cylinder powerhouse has already proved itself in Toyota Hilux Revo and the new Prado. Petrol Hilux will be available in 2700 cc V4 and a 3.5-litre naturally-aspirated petrol V6, both available with six-speed manual or automatic gearboxes. The front suspension retains a MacPherson strut layout and the rear also stays with a leaf-sprung live axle.
However, the suspension has been tuned for greater comfort and stability while the leaf springs are now 200mm longer for greater pliancy.
Like its predecessor, the new HiAce will send power to the rear wheels.
Toyota Hiace Safety
Toyota Hiace comes with airbags and ABS (Anti-lock Brake) and a host of safety features.