The Toyota Lite Ace returns—in a new form
Idistinctly remember the Toyota Lite Ace from my grade school days since it’s one of the common minivans used as a school service back then. And now, Toyota Motor Philippines has brought that name back in a new form as they launched the all-new Lite Ace that starts at P570,000. It’s now a light commercial vehicle suited for business owners and other establishments to help transport anything they could fit.
During the launch at Farmer’s Plaza in Cubao, Toyota flaunted some possibilities with the new Lite Ace. There’s a food truck, an emergency vehicle, a closed van for dry goods, a baranggay vehicle, and a service vehicle for technical support.
“With the introduction of the all-new Lite Ace, we are responding to the long-time request of our customers for Toyota to introduce a light commercial vehicle. We are confident that the all-new Lite Ace is a game changer, not just in uplifting the auto industry, but more importantly in improving the way homegrown businesses move people and goods,” said TMP President Atsuhiro Okamoto.
There may be many possibilities but it’s currently available in two configurations for now - as a single-cab pickup or a panel van. Toyota said the Aluminum Van and Utility Van models will be available come September of this year.
Standard across the panel van and pickup is the 1.5L engine that makes 98 horsepower and 134 Nm of torque, paired to a 5-speed manual. This is the same engine that’s fitted in the current Avanza, Rush, and Veloz so you’re sure servicing it will be a cinch. Other amenities across the two are electronic power steering, a 2-DIN radio with Bluetooth functionality, front airbags, and ABS while the panel van has additional Vehicle Stability Control (VSC).
The rear suspension is also different between the two. The pickup has leaf spring rear suspension that allows it to carry up to 950 kilograms. Meanwhile, the panel van has a 5-link coil spring suspension that offers a bit softer ride and can load up to 750 kilograms.
The all-new Lite Ace pickup has a retail price of P570,000 while the panel van is at P655,000 and is now available in all 72 Toyota dealerships nationwide. Aside from the usual amortization terms, you can pay for it on a weekly basis for as low as P2,903.50 (for the pickup) if you get them via Toyota Financial Services Philippines. It will also have a free 1-year PMS or the first 20,000 km, whichever comes first.