If recent leaks and reports online are anything to go by, the all-new Hiace might be making its Philippine debut within the month, too. But we’ve yet to receive any official announcement or information from Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) regarding an upcoming launch. The company does have an event scheduled for later this month, so maybe there’s a chance we’ll see the van then.
Anyway, back to the Hiace. It looks like drivers will no longer be sitting on top of the engine, which has been moved forward, doing away with the nameplate’s signature flat-nosed design. Yes, there’s a hood now. The vehicle’s height has been reduced from 1,980mm to 1,965mm, but its length (4,695mm to 4,790mm) and wheelbase (2,570mm to 2,985mm) have increased drastically.
The dashboard also carries a more modern look, with a relatively sportier steering-wheel design and a boxier, more angular appearance. It’s an updated design, but no drastic changes have been made in terms of the layout.
Again, the leaked photos appear to be of the commuter variant—hence the generous 13-seat configuration. Unfortunately, there are no official powertrain details yet. We’ve reached out to TMP for confirmation of a local launch, so in the meantime, sit tight.
