The sixth generation Toyota Hiace had its world premiere in the Philippines today, its first market worldwide. We have no confirmation but Toyota Kirloskar Motor could launch this model, thanks to the relaxed import norms.
The exterior design of the sixth generation Toyota Hiace, as expected, is clearly an evolution of what’s gone before. There’s no denying that it’s sleeker and looks more upscale now, though, thanks to the sharp headlamps, more elegant grille, LED DRLs, more angular front bumper and most importantly, the semi-bonnet design.
The interior is completely new and makes the Toyota Hiace look much more refined, at par with latest industry design standards for a vehicle its type. Key features include more compact multifunction steering wheel, new driver information display, touchscreen infotainment system, cruise control, LED reading lights and multiple USB ports.
The 2019 Toyota Hiace is made in two body types: Normal/Standard Roof and Long/High Roof. Below are their main exterior dimensions along with changes compared to the outgoing model.
| Body type | Normal / Standard Roof | Long / High Roof |
| Length | 5,265 mm [+570 mm] | 5,915 mm [+535 mm] |
| Width | 1,950 mm [+255 mm] | 1,950 mm [+70 mm] |
| Height | 1,990 mm [+10 mm] | 2,280 mm [-5 mm] |
| Wheelbase | 3,210 mm [+640 mm] | 3,860 mm [+750 mm] |
Toyota has built the all-new Hiace using a special revised platform. The company has used a new leaf spring rear suspension that is 200 mm longer and provides a 30 mm longer bound stroke. The turning radius has reduced to 6.9 metres, which should make driving in urban areas and parking easier. Two more improvements the company has made for the driver are a 45-degree turning angle (+ 7-degree) and wider front quarter glass.
Behind the front seats, the cabin of the 2019 Toyota Hiace is 2,910 mm long, 1,760 mm wide and 1,340 mm tall in the 'Van' (Normal/Standard Roof) version and 3,786 mm long, 1,725 mm wide and 1,545 mm tall in the 'Commuter' (Long/High Roof) and 'Tourism' (Long/High Roof) versions. The headroom, shoulder room and legroom for the rear seat passengers in the Commuter and Tourism versions have increased by 40 mm, 15 mm and 166 mm respectively.
Also Read: Toyota planning C-SUV & C-MPV for India in INR 15-20 lakh range
The new semi-bonnet design means that the engine is no longer mounted atop the front wheel axle in the Toyota Hiace. The relocation of the engine should have improved ride comfort, quietness and safety. Speaking of safety, Toyota has become the first automaker to include a centre seat airbag in a utility van with the all-new Hiace.
Engine options for the 2019 Toyota Hiace include the 7GR 3.5-litre petrol unit and the 1GD 2.8-litre diesel unit. The specifications of the petrol engine aren’t out yet. The diesel engine, in the Philippines, is available in 163 PS/420 Nm, 176 PS/420 Nm and 176 PS/450 Nm versions. 6-speed manual and 6-speed automatic are the transmission choices.
