Toyota HiAce spotted testing in India

Japanese auto major Toyota showcased the HiAce at the 2014 Auto Expo and the again at the 2015 SIAM Bus and Special Vehicle Show, where it had revealed its plans to launch the vehicle in India in mid-2015. Now the vehicle has been spotted testing on the Pune - Bangalore highway. However, unlike most Toyota test vehicles, which use a KA 42 registration, the HiAce wore an MH 12 number plate, leading to speculation that it could be undergoing ARAI tests.

The HiAce uses an IMV3 platform and will be available in India as a "Grand Cabin Long Wheelbase" with a 10-seater interior layout. The vehicle is expected to come with a long list of features including a rear view camera, 2 airbags and ABS.

The HiAce will be powered by a 2,982 cc, D-4D diesel engine developing 134 bhp @ 3400 rpm and 300 Nm of torque @ 1200-2400 rpm. The engine will be mated to a 4-speed automatic transmission.

Toyota will import the HiAce into India as a CBU and is likely to price it at more than Rs. 40 lakh. The vehicle will be aimed at the premium transport segment.

Source: Motor Octane