As mentioned earlier in an article this week, Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) is launching the Toyota Lite Ace. Well, earlier today it was officially unveiled to the public.
Toyota Lite Ace Variants
We can confirm that this new generation Toyota Lite Ace is no longer just a pure people mover. This time around Toyota decided to launch it as a light commercial vehicle (LCV).
The Toyota Lite Ace will be offered in two variants. Namely, the 1.5-liter Pickup MT which retails for PHP 570,000, and the 1.5-liter Panel Van MT which costs PHP 655,000.
Exterior and Interior
Given that the Lite Ace is primarily a commercial vehicle, the styling was not a priority. However, I must say that it looks bigger than it actually is, Toyota gave it a bulky front fascia.
What’s important though are its dimensions, the panel van comes in at 4,045mm x 1,665mm x 1,930mm, while the Pickup measures 4,195mm x 1,675mm x 1,920mm. The former has a 790kg payload capacity while the latter can load up to 950kg worth of cargo. Which are decent hauling figures for any light commercial vehicle.
The Inside meanwhile is just as simple as the outside. That’s not to say that it’s devoid of any creature comforts though, it features a 2DIN head unit with USB/Bluetooth/AUX function paired with a two-speaker setup. There’s also air conditioning and the panel van even gets power door locks to boot.
Engine and Safety
Under the hood of the Toyota Lite Ace is a 1.5-liter in-line four gasoline engine that makes 97 HP and 134 Nm of torque. There is only one transmission option, which is a 5-speed manual that sends the power to the rear wheels.
Strangely, only the pickup version comes with an anti-lock brake system (ABS) but it doesn’t have vehicle stability control (VSC). The panel van meanwhile comes with VSC but not ABS, we’re not sure why Toyota did that?
For those interested in the Toyota Lite Ace, they can now head over to their nearest Toyota dealership to inquire.
