Toyota TownAce Van: A Carimports.co.ke Review

The Big Picture

The Toyota TownAce Van is the bigger, tougher brother to the Probox. It is a proper, robust commercial van built on a rear-wheel-drive platform, making it ideal for carrying heavier and bulkier loads. For businesses that have outgrown a Probox but don't need a full-size Hiace, the TownAce is the perfect, ultra-reliable solution.

Engine, Performance & Economy

The TownAce is powered by a durable 1.5-litre petrol engine, designed for reliability and torque to handle heavy loads. It is paired with either a manual or automatic transmission. Fuel economy is good for a commercial van, at around 11-13 km/l.

Design & Practicality

The TownAce is a "semi-cab-over" design, which provides a huge, square, and uninterrupted cargo bay. Its rear-wheel-drive layout allows for a very strong rear axle, perfect for commercial use.

  • Seating Capacity: 2 seats in the van configuration.
  • Ease of Access: Dual sliding doors and a large rear tailgate make loading from any side simple and efficient.
  • Luggage Capacity: The cargo volume is immense, offering a significant step up from car-based wagons like the Fielder.
  • Ground Clearance: ~175 mm

Comfort & Technology

The cabin is purely functional, with a focus on durability. The materials are hard-wearing, and the technology is limited to the essentials needed for a work vehicle.

Safety & On-Road Stability

Standard safety features include dual airbags and ABS. Its robust construction provides a good level of passive safety.

Reliability & Maintenance

As a commercial Toyota, its reliability is legendary. It is built to withstand years of hard work. Parts are affordable and widely available in Kenya, making it an easy and cost-effective vehicle to own.

Estimated Import Cost for a 2018 Toyota TownAce Van

(These estimates are for a direct import of a 2018 model with low mileage and a Japanese auction grade of 4 or higher. The import duty is calculated using the official KRA valuation template.)

Duty-Paid Estimate (1.5L Petrol):
  • Estimated CIF to Mombasa: KSh 1,600,000 - KSh 1,900,000
  • Taxes & Fees (KRA + NTSA): ~ KSh 320,000
  • Clearing & Port Handling (excl. RDL/IDF): ~ KSh 85,000
  • Total Estimated On-the-Road Price: KSh 2,005,000 - KSh 2,305,000

Long-Term Ownership Costs

  • Insurance: Approx. KSh 60,000 - KSh 85,000.
  • Minor Service: Approx. KSh 7,000 - KSh 10,000.
  • Major Service: Approx. KSh 15,000 - KSh 25,000.

Meet the Competition

The rear-wheel-drive TownAce is tougher and better suited for carrying very heavy loads.

  • Nissan NV200- Its main competitor, which is a front-wheel-drive van that is often more comfortable to drive.

The Ci Verdict

The Toyota TownAce Van is the perfect step-up for a growing business. It offers a significant increase in cargo capacity and toughness over car-based wagons, while still retaining the low running costs and legendary reliability of a Toyota. It is a superb, no-nonsense commercial vehicle.