2019 Toyota Hiace has been officially unveiled, making the car eligible for most markets where import norms are relaxed for vehicles of this size. Hiace is available in two trims, with normal, standard roof and long, high roof variant being their classification. The first one comes with 5265mm of overall length and 3210mm of wheelbase while the latter offers 5915mm of length and 3860mm of wheelbase. The overall height is also different for both the models, with high roof variant getting 2280mm of height. The front design is now revised with a different set of sharp headlamps, smarter than ever grille and LED daytime running lights.
The compact bonnet facilitates easy turning while noise inside the cabin is also said to be lower than the older model. The interior now comes with a new driver information system, touchscreen infotainment with controls on the steering wheel, dual tone finish. The standard version gets seating for two at the front while the one with a high roof has seating for three in the first row. The long version of Toyota Hiace comes with seating for 17 passengers, including the driver, making it ideal for commercial use by various organizations and tourism brands. The car even comes with an option between 6-speed manual and 6-speed automatic gearbox.
The international market is quite sensitive towards the petrol/diesel engine availability and Toyota has catered both the options with a 3.5L petrol and 2.8L diesel engine. The latter is the same option that is found on India-spec Toyota Innova Crysta and Fortuner. The 2.8L model of Toyota Hiace brings 4×4 and 450 Nm of maximum output from the motor. The output of the petrol engine is yet to be announced. Toyota has also enhanced the safety on Hiace with centre seat airbags and other safety features on the Hiace. As homologation for up to 2500 units in the CBU/CKD category is not mandatory anymore, Toyota can try the Hiace for the Indian market.