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.