I first heard of the term Toyota Project IMV 0 (zero) more than a year ago, during coffee with certain individuals. Judging by the posture at that table, it was an important yet very hush-hush program. I made a mental note to remember the term.
At Toyota Motor Philippines’ 35th anniversary the project was finally previewed, and it was called the Tamaraw. A name we all knew as children—if you were a certain age at least.
During this year’s Toyota Road Trek event, we were given limited access to Toyota’s anticipated product. At Samal Island in Davao, eight prototypes were displayed, although only one was unlocked. We don’t have complete details yet, but here are five things we learned about the new Tamaraw.
1) It’s not the all-new IMV platform.
The zero in IMV 0 got us curious to know if this is the current IMV platform that underpins the current Hilux, Innova and Fortuner, or is it an all-new IMV platform? We learned that it is the current IMV platform, the one that was introduced with the HIlux in 2015.
2015 was a long time ago, and a new IMV platform is certainly due. But using the IMV platform we have now will surely save on cost, something crucial to the Tamaraw’s success.
2) There’s a good mix of powertrain options.
What we know is that there will be two engines and two transmissions. The 2.0-liter gasoline engine that was discontinued in the Innova will make a comeback. The 2.4-liter turbodiesel engine in some Fortuner and Hilux variants will be used. A five-speed manual transmission and an automatic transmission will be available.
3) The cabin is functional.
You can see that the new Tamaraw was designed to work, evoking the hardworking ethos of the animal it was named after. The cabin is sparse and just contains everything you need to operate it properly. We didn’t see automatic climate control (although that doesn’t mean it will not be offered in the future). There was a basic 2DIN infotainment system, which is good because it opens the possibility of upgrading.
Interior materials felt solid and reliable. No fancy soft-touch surfaces, and thankfully no glossy parts. It’s a good mix of everyday comfort and usability.
4) It’s quite versatile.
The Tamaraw has a single-cab body, meaning it can only seat two in front. But the rear will have three available body types: pickup, dropside, and people carrier (the famous FX configuration).
We were able to climb the back of the pickup variant. It was large and spacious, and ready to help local economies.
5) The design rocks.
With its chunky look and blocky angles, the Toyota Tamaraw feels like the Tonka trucks of our childhood. The design is a knockout. It also features the Toyota logo spelled out, the way it was done before 1990, when the current three-oval logo was introduced. You can see the spelled Toyota logo in front and inside the cabin. The last Toyota we remember that was badged like this was the FJ Cruiser. The upcoming Land Cruiser Prado will also have this kind of retro badging.
