Toyota introduced the Tarago to Australia 25 years ago this year. Based originally on the LiteAce van, the Tarago was named for an Australian aboriginal word meaning 'my country' or 'my house'.
The name caught on and continued to be applied to the van-based model's third-generation successor in 1990. This vehicle was known in other markets as the Previa and marked a radical change from a converted van to a bespoke MPV with a mid-mounted four-cylinder engine mounted on its side under the floor. The current model, introduced in 2000, is front-wheel drive for lower loading and ease of access.
"The first generation Tarago established the concept of modern people movers in the mass market," says David Buttner, Toyota's senior executive director sales and marketing.
"The second generation then set the standard of people movers and broke new ground in terms of passenger van design. That model, launched with the new Y-frame chassis, provided increased crash protection and delivered a major step forward in handling and ride.
"The third and fourth generations of Tarago evolved and fine-tuned the concept of people movers to the next level in style, package efficiency, performance, fuel economy and low emissions."
The Tarago is one of the models within the Toyota range being promoted through the company's current 'TOYOTATHON' campaign during the early weeks of March. Private buyers can take advantage of fleet discounting not normally available to them. Dealer delivery is charged as usual and accessories can only be purchased at the standard retail price, but the total purchase price for the Tarago during 'TOYOTATHON' represents a significant saving, particularly in light of the 2008 Tarago on offer being replaced recently by an upgraded model now fitted with active front headrests.
According to Toyota, the Tarago is the best-selling peoplemover in Australia, recording total sales of 93,585 units from its introduction to December 2008.