Slated to become India’s first luxury commuter vehicle, Motoroids reader and our friend Mayur Salunke caught the Toyota Hiace while it was being tested on the Pune-Ahmednagar highway. Already a popular import in India, the Hiace is the only vehicle Toyota will be launching this year and could go officially on sale in the coming months.
First displayed at the 12th Auto Expo last year, the Hiace is sold in more than 140 countries around the world, developed to withstand varying climates, roads, and usage conditions. Powered by  a reliable combo of Toyota’s D4D motor and a 4-speed automatic gearbox, the Hiace is built following the manufacturer’s strict performance and quality requirements. Specific standards have been established for the Hiace to ensure reliability and durability under the harshest conditions. With a seating capacity for 10 passengers (including driver) in a configuration of 4 rows and an ample luggage space, the Toyota Hiace offers flexibility along with superior comfort in inter and intra city travels. Expect this luxury commuter to be priced between Rs 25,00,000 – 30,00,000 lakh.
Some of the key features on the Hiace are as below:
- Easy closer & Power slide door
- Manual Air conditioner with multiple air conditioning vents
- Power Steering
- Power Windows
- Rear Window Defogger
- Illuminated Entry System
- Audio – CD, USB, 6 Speakers
- Halogen Headlamps
- Reverse Camera w/Display on * Inner Rear View Mirror
- Immobiliser
- Fabric seats
Safety
- Â ABS
- LED High-Mount Stop Lamp
- FR Fog Lamp
- SRS Dual Airbags
- Collapsible Steering Column
- Crumple zone construction &Â Crash Safety GOA Body
Performance
- 2,982cc DIESEL (Euro IV)
- Power : 136ps/3,400rpm
- Torque : 300Nm/1,200-2,400rpm
- Transmission: 4 speed AT
The only fly in this cappucino is the 4 speed auto. Even the Nano offers 5 speed in auto tranny now a days. This luxury segment may not focus on fuel efficiency that much but 4 speed gearbox definitely reduces highway capacity. If not 6, it must have 5 speed box.