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loyota Mace premiere
Page 13
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I Toyota's revamped Hiace ent on sale earlier this week, ith a series of mechanical im-ovements, a new interior, id a more rounded nose. Like its main competitors — le Nissan Urvan, the Bedford lidi, the Mazda E2000 and the litsubishi L300 — it retains a rward-control layout, and is !signed to conform with the mensional restrictions which cist in the Japanese domestic Olt commercial market. Though to some extent lilted by its quota, Toyota is .edicting a slight increase in les from the new model. It cpects to sell 2,500 in 1990 p from a target of 2,350 this ear) and contrary to past exerience, expects the diesel model (£9,597) to be more popular than its 28,745 petrol stablemate.
Four aspects of the previous model have been changed. A floor-mounted gear lever replaces the column-shift; a 'normal' lever handbrake takes over from an umbrella type; the tailgate has two opening angles to facilitate use in confined spaces; and a beefed-up front end is said to improve driver safety in the event of frontal collisions.
Though the gross weight is up 150kg to 2,800kg, payload has not risen commensurately, rising by 35kg in the diesel and only 10kg in the petrol. Pulling the extra weight are two new power units: a 2.0-litre OHC
petrol and a 2.4-litre indirect injection diesel. Both drive through a standard five-speed gearbox.
Driving impressions Both versions ot the new Hiace immediately impress by being easy to drive. All major controls are light — and steering is perhaps a little too light, giving the driver virtually no information about what the front wheels are doing.
The driving position is excellent, with good all-round visibility (the door mirrors are particularly good). Like the Hilux pickup launched earlier this year, the interior sets the standard for Japanese vans in its class and its clear, attractive displays make those in recently re-launched European vans, like the Leyland Daf 400 and the Renault Trafic, look dated.
Performance was difficult to assess in vehicles with very low mileages and with differing payloads; both engines are reasonably refined, but tend to a little harshness and noise when extended.
The load area in the Hiace is clear and uncluttered, with excellent access. The tailgate works effectively, although the difference between its two positions is not that great.
Overall, the new Hiace could be a good buy for those who prefer a forward-control van, but it is unlikely to present a serious threat to vans designed for the European market such as the Transit.
A full roadtest will appear in next week's issue.