New Toyota HiAce images leaked

Carsales first reported news of the sixth-generation Toyota HiAce – the revolutionary new long-bonnet van series expected to arrive in local showrooms later this year -- back in November 2018.

Now, the first images of the all-new HiAce workshorse have emerged online, with Thai publication HeadlightMag publishing images overnight.

The pics confirm HiAce’s semi-hooded front-end that will boost cabin space and frontal occupant protection, giving the Toyota van a look more reminiscent of Ford’s Transit, the Hyundai iLoad or Renault Trafic.

The new HiAce is the first all-new van from Toyota since the current-generation HiAce launched in 2004.

Significantly, the new HiAce and HiAce Commuter are also expected to adopt new engines, including the 2.8-litre turbo-diesel (132kW) found in Toyota’s HiLux and Prado ranges.

There’s also talk of a 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine (206kW) to replace the long-serving four-cylinder unit offered currently, as well as the option of a six-speed automatic transmission. The six-speed manual will likely remain as the standard gearbox offering.

It appears the HiAce will also offer more metal for your money with the new generation growing incrementally across the board.

Both short and long-wheelbase variants will grow up to 570mm in length to 5256mm and 5915mm respectively, with body width and height also increasing with the new model.

Weight, unfortunately, also increases commensurately with the HiAce’s increased proportions, reportedly by more than 500kg to a respective 2150kg and 2325kg.

Side and driver’s knee airbags will join frontal airbags to improve occupant safety, the HiAce’s increased mass hinting at a stronger structure leaving some to suggest this could be Toyota’s first five-star ANCAP-rated van.