For the first time in 15 years, Toyota has revealed a new-generation Quantum van and bus range with advanced safety features, powerful new engines, enhanced ride comfort and increased specification.
A shift to a semi-bonneted design has enabled the development team to implement significant changes with a stiffer frame, stronger straight-line performance, greater stability and manoeuvrability, and more pliant suspensions.
Tractability and fuel efficiency
Arriving in South Africa in the second quarter of 2019, the Quantum will be available with three-seat vans in long (LWB) and super-long wheelbase (SLWB) configurations and six-seat LWB crew cabs. The bus range will comprise of 11 (LWB) and 14-seater (SLWB) versions.
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The sixth-generation Quantum range will be offered with a solitary engine on the domestic front - a 2.8-litre four-cylinder turbocharged diesel.
Image: Motorpress
This will be combined with a 6-speed manual transmission to promote excellent tractability and fuel efficiency.
Excellent cargo capacity - a hallmark of every Quantum - has been maintained at a maximum of 6.2 (LWB) and 9.3 cubic metres (SLWB) - due to longer wheelbases and clever packaging that increases internal width by 215mm, and height by 5mm without altering overall exterior width.
Raft of changes
All-new Quantum features a raft of interior storage space, with clever packaging to maximise ease of use and versatility.
LED lighting, console boxes, flip-up seats and netted seat-back pockets help create occupant comfort whilst up to 16 cup/bottle holders are provided.
Image: Motorpress
The bottom edge of the front door is lower and comes with a wider step for easier access. Larger front-door glass and a lower beltline improve visibility. Towing capacity has been expanded to a maximum 2000kg on key variants, an improvement of up to 600kg.
Newly developed MacPherson struts at the front provide excellent handling and stability, as well as ride comfort.
In the rear, the new leaf spring suspension span has been increased by 200mm, extending the bound stroke by an impressive 30mm for a comfortable ride while enhancing handling and stability.
Image: Motorpress
Customer use has been a priority with new locally developed Toyota Genuine accessories available from launch.
Numerous flat-mount surfaces and anchor points make it easy to alter the vehicle for specialised use. Toyota will also provide a detailed guide to assist bodybuilders.
The full model line-up, specification and pricing will be released closer to launch timing.