Toyota Launches All-New Hiace
UMW Toyota Motor Sdn Bhd, local assembler and distributor of the ever reliable Toyota range of vehicles recently announced the launch of its all-new (all-new meaning complete model change in motoring jargon) Hiace van, after a model run that has spanned a good number of years.
The new Hiace van comes in three versions to suit different needs:-
– Window Van with High Roof and a 2.7 litre VVTi Petrol engine
– Window Van with High Roof and a 2.5 litre Turbodiesel engine
– Panel Van with Standard Roof and a 2.5 litre Turbodiesel engine
The Hiace vans can be used as people carriers that can accommodate up to 11 persons on four rows of seats. Customers can have this configuration using the high roof versions, and choose to have the van powered either by the petrol or diesel engine. The turbodiesel is more suited for long hauls, as it offers lower operating costs, while the petrol version is for short hauls.
Customers wishing to transport goods can use the stand (low) roof panel van version; carrying capacity is 1,090 kg.
The new Hiace is 4,695mm long, which is 205mm shorter than the outgoing model, but interior length is actually 20mm longer due to a re-positioning of the radiator, and placing the engine closer to the front end of the vehicle. Body width and height have been increased by 5 mm and 15 mm respectively, making an interior volume of 7,502 cubic mm for the high roof version and 6,126 cubic mm for the Panel Van.
The repositioning of the engine and radiator means easier access to the frequent maintenance areas through a small front bonnet cover. turning radius also has improved by 0.2 metres.
For the passenger van versions, 2-tier air-conditioning is available, with a second blower mounted on the ceiling for the rear passengers. The cockpit is made user friendly, and the gear lever is located next to the steering column to free space below the dashboard. An AM/FM tuner with a CD-player is provided as standard equipment.
To help in parking, a reverse sensor is also fitted.
In the power department, the 4-cylinder, 2.7 litre petrol engine features a 16-valve DOHC arrangement and VVTi (Variable Valve Timing – Intelligent), produces 151 Ps of power and 241 Nm of torque.
The diesel version features the D-4D 4 cylinder 16-valve turbocharged common rail diesel engine (the same as that in the Hilux and Fortuner), developing 102 Ps and 260 Nm of torque.
Suspension is double wishbone and torsion bar arrangement at the front, while the rear runs leaf springs.
An alarm system comes as a standard feature in the Hiace. Warranty is 3 years or 100,000 km, whichever comes first.
Price for the petrol version is RM95k, while the diesel version is RM102k.
