ACE IN THE  HAND

It’s been 15 years since the last incarnation and at least 10 years in gestation. So calling the new HiAce the new generation has more than an echo of truth.

And so it should, having been re-engineered from the ground up – no update, this.

And the planning time has been put to good use.

It’s a different beast to its predecessor and comfortably swallows an Australian pallet-size load.

Instead of sitting over the front axle, driver and front passenger are set back plushly in the new semi-bonneted configuration.

The wider axle means more space inside and a more purposeful stance when there’s a need to get weaving or dodging obstacles, aided by a tight turning circle.

Then there’s the updated IT, including an option for a digital rear view mirror, making for wide and uncluttered vision behind.

VALUE

Toyota directs the new HiAce’s value proposition over its nine variants towards ‘whole of life’ rather than ‘initial cost’.

But the latter is