Toyota delivers all-new Hiace
SKY TV BROADCASTER JEFF WILSON IS A BRAND AMBASSADOR FOR FORD NZ
One of New Zealand’s longest-serving workhorses is getting a full makeover this year with Toyota preparing to launch a new generation Hiace van range.
Featuring some the biggest improvements in its 50-year history, the 2019 Hiace is due to be launched in New Zealand in May.
“It has been 15 years since the previous generation of Hiace was released,” said Neeraj Lala,
Toyota general manager New Vehicles and Product.
“This new generation Hiace is a breakthrough vehicle with a new shape, comprehensive safety features and amazing versatility. It’s a Hiace that can be tailored to meet the needs of all our New Zealand customers.”
The most noticeable change to the new Hiace is the adoption of a semi-bonnet design, which has given the Toyota design engineers an opportunity to make significant changes to the van.
The semi-bonnet means the front wheels are positioned ahead of the front seats for increased quietness and comfort. The semibonnet also means the new generation’s interior space has been revised to give more storage space up front for those trade essentials. Other major
THE MOST NOTICEABLE CHANGE TO THE NEW HIACE IS THE ADOPTION OF A SEMIBONNET DESIGN, WHICH HAS GIVEN THE TOYOTA DESIGN ENGINEERS AN OPPORTUNITY TO MAKE SIGNIFICANT CHANGES TO THE VAN.
What are you driving?
It’s a Ford Everest, titanium 2-litre diesel bi-turbo automatic with a 10-speed transmission.
Why the Everest?
It is the perfect family vehicle, with my two boys and an active lifestyle. Whether it be in the city, at the beach or travelling to the nearest golf course the Everest can handle it with ease.
Is it your everyday drive?
Absolutely.
What do you like about it?
It looks great, sits on the road well and has all the extras you could possibly need. It’s a seven-seater, so when it comes to transporting the lads and their mates, it’s all good. It has great pick up and power, and doesn’t feel like a large vehicle to drive.
If you were to describe this car as a person, who would it be?
What about Bear Grylls? It can go anywhere, do anything.
What does being a Ford ambassador involve?
We see the role as helping people understand what makes the Ford range of cars perfect for any situation. This can be through live appearances at specific events, through social media or simply driving around New Zealand.
Who else drives it?
My wife Adine drives it when transporting the boys and their mates, or when she needs the space in the back. improvements are a longer wheelbase for better straight-line stability.
Toyota says the new Hiace is wider and longer, however with a new powertrain and platform it gains increased payload and towing capacities across the range allowing for greater cargo flexibility.
The new Hiace will adopt the 1-GD 2.8-litre turbo diesel engine
Any other vehicles in your garage?
A 1965 Ford Mustang convertible.
How does this vehicle suit your lifestyle?
Because we live an active lifestyle and I love a round of golf, the Everest is great to cruise, carry plenty of kit like golf clubs, beach stuff and as well as tow the jet ski.
How often do you clean it?
I usually get a full valet once a month and then I keep on top of it as required. There is a unique — introduced with the latest generation Hilux — and the range will include six-speed manual and six-speed automatic transmission options. The engine develops 130kW with 420Nm of torque for manual models and 450Nm for the six-speed automatics.
Toyota says the new Hiace lineup will include a variety of seating satisfaction about cleaning your own car.
What do you always keep in your car?
Mints. When it’s time to head to the next appointment, it pays to freshen up.
Manual or automatic, which do you prefer?
With the amount of traffic on the road in Auckland I prefer to focus on the road, so it’s automatic. Mind you, it’s nice to rip through the gears from time to time. layouts to meet the diverse needs of owners, drivers and passengers. The range includes standard ZR (larger than current ZL) and extended ZX body lengths along with glass, half-panel and minibus configurations.
All models will have a 7.0-inch touchscreen with satellite navigation and SUNA Traffic
Who started your interest in cars?
Josh Kronfeld recommended I get a classic convertible back in 1998. Once I got hold of my Mustang, I was hooked.
What was your first car?
A Datsun 200B. I loved the luxury couch that was the back seat. I loathed the fact the clutch virtually fell out of the car.
Any you have regretted selling?
No, I thought about selling my Mustang a couple of times, but Information.
“Hiace has been a faithful partner in cargo and people transport for decades. One thing that makes Hiace so popular is its customisation and reliability. Owners need a van that can be modified to meet any need, no matter how unique,” Lala said.
A completely new design after 15 years allows Toyota to thoroughly update the safety credentials for the Hiace.
The comprehensive Toyota Safety Sense package includes the Pre-Collision System with Autonomous Emergency Braking for vehicles, pedestrians and bicycles along with Lane Departure Alert, Road Sign Assist and Automatic High Beam control. then I went for a drive and gave myself an uppercut and forgot about it.
Your most memorable road trip in this vehicle?
I have had the vehicle only a few weeks, but I drove it north to Te Arai, south of Mangawhai to Tara Iti Golf club. The course and coast are an amazing experience.
Your dream car, if money were no object?
A 1966 Shelby Mustang GT350 in mint condition would do nicely.
Favourite movie car scene?
Being an 80s kid, let’s be honest, who didn’t want to go 88 miles per hour in a DeLorean like in Back to the Future?
What’s a great day trip out of Auckland?
Auckland has so many great things to do, but if we are heading out, we head north and take our pick of the beautiful beaches at Te Arai, Mangawhai Heads, Langs, Waipu Cove. The possibilities are endless.
How do you feel about electric and driverless cars?
I understand there is a need for the further development of both electric and driverless cars. Can I see myself driving an electric car? Why not? Can I see myself in a driverless car? That might take a little more getting used to.
— Donna McIntyre