Toyota is expanding its LCV line-up with a new compact van that will sit below the existing midsize Proace.
Developed in collaboration with PSA, the Proace City is built on the same EMP2 platform as the Peugeot Partner, Vauxhall Combo and Citroën Berlingo, and debuts at the end of this month at the CV Show in Birmingham.
As with the PSA models, the Proace City will be offered in two lengths – short at 4.4m and long at 4.7m – and will be offered as panel or glass vans, while the long version is also available as a crew cab. It will also offer a Smart Cargo option, already seen on the Proace, that uses a folding outer passenger seat and a hatch in the bulkhead to provide an extra 0.4m3 of load space and to increase maximum load length by 1.3m.
Maximum volume ranges from 3.3m3 (short model) to 4.3m3 (long version with Smart Cargo option), with the latter also bringing a best-in-class load length capability of 3.1m for the short version and 3.4m for the long. Maximum payload stands at one tonne for both models – again a class-best. Asymmetrical rear doors (glazed or unglazed) or a top-hinged tailgate can be specified.
Like the PSA models, it will also be offered as a passenger variant – the Proace City Verso – with five or seven seats – including the option of three individual seats or a 60:40 split-folding bench in the second row – with both versions available in short and long models.
Engine line-up covers a range of petrol and diesel powertrains from 70hp to 130hp and with a choice of five or six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic transmissions. The Proace City also offers Toyota Traction Select that enables drivers to choose between Normal, Snow, Sand and All-terrain modes. Meanwhile a Smart Load Indicator – also seen on the PSA models – warns when 90% of the maximum weight is reached and adds an alert in the combimeter when the maximum is exceeded.
The interior can also be configured to suit needs, including with either two individual front seats or a three-seat bench – which is also available with the Smart Cargo option.
In the crew cab version, when the second row seats are not being used, the bench can be folded flat and the bulkhead moved forwards to increase load space. A hatch in the bulkhead can be opened to carry longer loads.
The Proace City van can be fitted with a rear hatch in the roof to help with transporting longer items. This comes with a cross-bar that can support up to 100kg.
Equipment details will be confirmed closer to launch but standard safety features will include a Pre-Collision System, Road Sign Assist, Lane Keep Assist, Cruise Control and a “coffee cup warning” that recommends the driver takes a break if they have spent a long time at the wheel. More comprehensive safety packs are also offered.
Multimedia and connectivity features include an eight-inch touchscreen to access audio and smartphone functions, with MirrorLink, Apple CarPlay (including Siri assistant) and Android Auto (including Google assistant), plus Bluetooth, and USB/Aux-in connections.
The Proace City can also be specified with Smart Active Vision. This uses two dedicated cameras and a ceiling-mounted five-inch screen to relay a clear, real-time view behind and alongside the vehicle – effectively letting the driver see through the metal panels. The view can also be switched to the blind spot on the passenger side of the vehicle.
Other equipment features available for Proace City include a wireless smartphone charger, electric parking brake and, for the passenger version, a panoramic roof with electric shade and a parking assist system.
