People-carrying van enters its sixth generation with new engine and gearbox from the Hilux Revo pickup.
Toyota Motor Thailand has introduced the all-new Commuter passenger van, as well as the Hiace variant.
Now in its sixth-generation, the Commuter features a redesigned exterior and interior, 15-seat layout, enhanced safety features, more external noise suppression and the latest B20-friendly diesel from the Hilux Revo pickup.
The 1GD-coded 2.8-litre four-cylinder, mated to either six-speed manual or automatic, produces 163hp and 420Nm.
The previous-gen Commuter was powered by the 1KD-designated 3.0-litre generating a lesser 136hp and 300Nm. Transmission choices were five-speed manual and four-speed auto.
Prices have been set at 1.299 million baht for the auto and 1.269 million baht for manual. These represent increases of some 42,000-48,000 baht over the outgoing model.
A low-roof model called Hiace is also available at 1.079 million baht; the cargo-oriented version goes for 999,000 baht. Both only feature manual shiftstick.
The Commuter has basically been in a class of its own attracting public van operators more than private households. A more luxurious version called Ventury is expected toward the end of this year.
Eleven-seat models from other brands sold in Thailand include Hyundai H1 and MG V80, both with diesel power.
While the 170hp H1 had prices of between 1.3-1.7 million baht competing with the Ventury, the 136hp V80 is pitched lower down at some one million baht.
