Toyota PROACE van review

Buying a Toyota PROACE

A medium van reminiscent of the Citroen Dispatch and the Peugeot Expert - mainly because it was developed in partnership with the PSA Group - the new Toyota PROACE offers performance that is defined by its economy, a drive that is renowned for its handling, and safety that is of the highest standard. Benefiting from over 40 years’ expertise in commercial vehicle development, the PROACE can be relied upon to be a wise choice for the mid-sized market.

Styling

Like any commercial vehicle, looks may not always be the first consideration when purchasing for business, but it pays to invest in a model that presents your organisation in a good light. The second-generation Toyota PROACE - with sleek curves running across its bonnet, a range of body styles and length combinations, and a selection of sophisticated finishes - ensures that your business will always look the part, whatever your industry.

The interior is equally as impressive, providing a working environment that offers ample storage solutions via the Smart Cargo options - an upright folding front seat, load-through bulkhead, and Mobile Office functionality. Plus, with ample room for two passengers, a clean and intuitive dashboard, and comfortable upholstery throughout, every journey will enrich the experience of your working day.

Practicality

The innovative Smart Cargo storage solutions may prove invaluable during your time in the cabin, but what of the load space itself? Depending on the model you choose - the PROACE Compact, PROACE Medium, or PROACE Long - the dimensions vary significantly and make a significant difference to the load capacity. The smallest option, for example, has a maximum payload of 1,000kg and a maximum cargo length of 3,324mm, while the largest can carry 1,400kg and a maximum length of 4,026mm. Similarly, the load volumes at either end of the scale range from 5.1m3 to 6.6m3 - more than enough to accommodate most business needs.

Regardless of the vehicle length you choose, each model in the PROACE range features a low-loading floor and wide-opening sliding side doors, as well as rear doors for complete access. As such, even working in tight spaces is a breeze, with the model accessible from every angle.

Performance

When it comes to performance, the new Toyota PROACE comes with the option of one of three capable diesel engines: a 1.6 Diesel (95hp), 1.6 Diesel (115hp), and 2.0 Diesel (120hp). These advanced models all feature smooth transmissions to deliver great fuel efficiency and excellent driveability. What’s more, with Stop & Start technology available to help lower fuel consumption and limit emissions, optimising your running costs should be simple with the Toyota PROACE.

Arguably the pick of the bunch is the 1.6 Diesel (115hp). Featuring a six-speed manual gearbox, the engine is capable of accelerating to 62mph in as little as 12.9 seconds, all while retaining mileage of up to 54.3mpg and CO2 emissions as low as 137g/km.

Technology

While a commercial van is seldom chosen for the level of entertainment features available, it almost goes without saying that the need to offer some form of stimulation for the drive is essential. Within the cabin of the new Toyota PROACE, there is a selection of simple but effective technology to enhance your drive. With DAB digital radio, Bluetooth connectivity, and a USB connection, you can access music on the go from your smartphone. An optional high-resolution navigation system, meanwhile, includes Connected Services to communicate real-time traffic updates, fuel prices, speed camera alerts, and more.

Technology isn’t reserved solely for entertainment and information. Such measures as Cruise Control and power-adjustable door mirrors are simple features that make a world of difference, while Hill Start Assist, electric windows, and remote central locking further add to the convenience provided by the Toyota PROACE.

Safety

Safety is of fundamental importance in any vehicle and, while even the entry Base model features standard measures as driver and passenger airbags, Vehicle Stability Control, and a Tyre Pressure Monitoring System, it’s the manufacturer’s innovative Safety Sense package - available on Comfort grade models - that truly impresses.

This is a system that features a number of exceptional measures to keep you and your vehicle safe out on the road. Including in the Toyota Safety Sense pack is Head-Up Display for all the important driving information; Forward Collision Warning to alert you to risks and imminent collisions; a Pre-Collision System with pedestrian detection; automatic headlights and wipers; and a seven-inch Toyota Pro Touch Display.

With such measures available, and a 5-star EuroNCAP safety rating providing added reassurance, the PROACE represents one of the most secure and safe models to purchase for your workforce.

Overall

For commercial motorists with an eye on versatility and complete safety, few models offer just such a performance as the Toyota PROACE. From the range of solid engines to the different load lengths, there is certainly the opportunity to find a PROACE that matches your requirements. Plus, with in-cab technology and some of the best safety measures around thanks to the Toyota Safety Sense package, you can take to the road with complete peace of mind.

We at Vanwise Group in Harlow are proud to support commercial motorists in finding vehicles that will add to their business performance. With a vast selection of used vans for sale and a range of affordable financing packages to make purchasing affordable, we can help you get behind the wheel of an impressive used van - such as the Toyota PROACE - today. Get in touch to learn more about our available models and to book a test drive.