by The Toyota ProAce is a mid-sized van that’s winning over business owners, delivery drivers, and even families. With its practical design, modern tech, and a solid reputation for reliability, this Toyota van checks a lot of boxes. Whether you’re hauling cargo or shuttling passengers, the ProAce adapts to your needs with ease. Let’s dive into what makes this van a standout choice.
Toyota ProAce Overview
The Toyota ProAce is a versatile Toyota commercial van built to handle tough jobs while keeping you comfortable. It’s not just a workhorse—it’s a van with style and smarts. Born from a collaboration with Stellantis, it shares DNA with vans like the Peugeot Expert and Citroën Dispatch but brings Toyota’s legendary reliability to the table.
Key Features
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Three body sizes: Compact, Medium, and Long to fit your needs.
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Multiple configurations: Panel van, crew cab, or passenger-friendly Verso model.
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Smart Cargo system: Extends load space for longer items.
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Impressive warranty: Up to 10 years with Toyota servicing.
The exterior is sleek, with a bold front grille and sharp LED headlights. Inside, you’ll find a practical cabin with durable materials and plenty of storage. It’s a van that feels as good to drive as it does to work in.
Performance and Engine Options
The Toyota ProAce offers a range of engines to suit different drivers. Whether you want fuel efficiency, power, or zero-emission driving, there’s an option for you.
Engine Choices
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Diesel:
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1.5-liter (100 hp or 120 hp) for great fuel economy (up to 54.3 MPG).
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2.0-liter (120 hp or 180 hp) for heavier loads, with up to 400 Nm of torque.
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Electric (ProAce Electric):
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136 hp electric motor with instant torque for smooth city driving.
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Two battery sizes: 50 kWh (142 miles range) or 75 kWh (205 miles range).
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The diesel engines are refined and efficient, perfect for long hauls or heavy-duty tasks. The automatic gearbox (available on higher trims) makes city driving a breeze. If you’re eco-conscious or work in urban areas, the ProAce Electric is a game-changer with its quiet ride and low running costs.
Toyota ProAce Dimensions and Cargo Space
The ProAce dimensions make it a practical choice for businesses and families. It comes in three sizes, each offering different cargo and seating options.
Dimensions
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Compact: 4.6 meters long, 4.6 cubic meters of cargo space, 1,000 kg payload.
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Medium: 5.0 meters long, 5.3 cubic meters, up to 1,400 kg payload.
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Long: 5.3 meters long, 6.6 cubic meters, up to 1,400 kg payload.
The Smart Cargo system is a highlight, letting you fold the passenger seat to extend load length by up to 1.16 meters. Twin sliding side doors (standard on all models) make loading easy, and the rear doors open 180 degrees for full access. The Toyota ProAce can fit up to three Euro pallets in the Medium and Long models, though the Compact is limited to two.
For passenger models (ProAce Verso), you get seating for up to nine, making it ideal for large families or shuttle services. The low 1.9-meter height means it can slip into most parking garages with ease.
Technology and Safety Features
The Toyota ProAce is packed with tech to make driving safer and more enjoyable. Even entry-level models come well-equipped.
Tech Highlights
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Infotainment: 7-inch or 10-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
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Driver aids: Cruise control, rear parking sensors, and automatic wipers.
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Safety features: Hill-start assist, stability control, and optional Safety Sense pack (lane-departure warning, road-sign recognition).
Higher trims like Icon and Design add extras like blind-spot monitoring and a head-up display. The cabin feels modern, though some storage compartments could be deeper. Overall, the ProAce balances work-ready toughness with car-like comfort.
ProAce Electric Version
The ProAce Electric is Toyota’s answer to the growing demand for eco-friendly vans. It’s perfect for city deliveries or businesses aiming to cut emissions.
Electric Benefits
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Range: Up to 142 miles (50 kWh battery) or 205 miles (75 kWh battery).
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Charging: Rapid charging (100 kW) gets you to 80% in 30–48 minutes. A 7.4 kW wallbox takes 4.75–7 hours.
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Performance: 136 hp and 260 Nm of torque for zippy acceleration.
The ProAce Electric is smooth, quiet, and handles like a dream in urban settings. Its low center of gravity (thanks to underfloor batteries) improves stability. Plus, you get the same 10-year warranty as diesel models, with an 8-year/100,000-mile battery guarantee. It’s a solid pick for businesses in low-emission zones.
Toyota ProAce Price and Trims
The Toyota ProAce price starts at around £28,000 for the base Active trim (diesel) and £35,000 for the ProAce Electric. Prices climb to about £41,000 for top-spec electric models. Here’s a quick look at the trims:
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Active: Basic but functional, with DAB radio, Bluetooth, and cruise control.
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Icon: Adds air conditioning, a 7-inch touchscreen, and parking sensors.
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Design: Top-tier with sat-nav, head-up display, and extra safety features.
The extended warranty (up to 10 years with Toyota servicing) adds real value, especially for used buyers. Leasing deals are also available, starting at around £169 per month, making it a budget-friendly Toyota commercial van.
Pros and Cons
Pros
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Versatile sizes and configurations.
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Strong warranty (up to 10 years).
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Smooth and efficient ProAce Electric option.
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Car-like driving experience.
Cons
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Cabin feels cramped for taller drivers.
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No high-roof option limits cargo height.
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Some rivals offer more storage compartments.
Toyota ProAce vs Transit Custom
When comparing the Toyota ProAce vs Transit Custom, both vans are top contenders in the mid-sized market. Here’s how they stack up:
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Performance: The Ford Transit Custom offers slightly sportier handling, but the Toyota ProAce is smoother and quieter, especially in electric form.
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Cargo Space: The Transit Custom has a slight edge in load height due to its high-roof option, while the ProAce’s Smart Cargo system maximizes length.
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Tech: Both vans offer modern infotainment, but Toyota’s warranty (up to 10 years) beats Ford’s 3-year coverage.
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Price: The ProAce is often cheaper to lease, but the Transit Custom may have lower upfront costs.
If you prioritize reliability and warranty, the Toyota ProAce is hard to beat. For drivers needing maximum cargo height, the Transit Custom pulls ahead.
Is the Toyota ProAce a Good Van?
So, is the Toyota ProAce a good van? Absolutely. It’s reliable, practical, and packed with features that make it a great fit for small businesses, tradespeople, or families needing a spacious passenger van. The ProAce Electric is a standout for urban drivers, while diesel models suit long-distance hauls. Its warranty is a major selling point, giving peace of mind for years.
Who’s It For?
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Business owners: Perfect for deliveries or trades with its flexible cargo space.
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Families: The ProAce Verso offers seating for up to nine.
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Eco-conscious drivers: The ProAce Electric is ideal for city use and low-emission zones.
Conclusion
The Toyota ProAce is a reliable, versatile van that blends practicality with modern tech. Whether you’re after a diesel workhorse or an electric model for city driving, it delivers. Its long warranty, flexible configurations, and car-like ride make it a strong contender in the Toyota van lineup. Thinking about a reliable van? The Toyota ProAce is worth a look. Check it out at your local Toyota dealer or explore leasing options to get behind the wheel today!
