Toyota Motor Philippines has finally released the 2023 Lite Ace. That’s right, this is the latest model in a long line of one of the most recognizable names in the Toyota marque, and it is back as an affordable but capable logistics solution for small, medium, and even large businesses.
The all-new 2023 Toyota Lite Ace
Exterior
As we’ve mentioned in the article covering the preview of the Lite Ace, it looks similar to the current Town Ace DX that’s sold in Japan. It is boxy, and it assumes a panel van configuration.
A Lite Ace Panel Van converted into an ambulance
There is however, a single-cab pickup truck type body. This is reminiscent of the flat-bed truck variant used by the Suzuki Carry. And like this odel, the new Lite Ace pickup truck also gets a drop-side functionality for easy access to cargo.
Its front end, like the original Lite Ace of old, gets a front fascia that slants forward like a wedge. This front end then features a pair of large halogen headlamps, as well as a black plastic front bumper. No fuss, no muss.
The Lite Ace Pickup truck has leaf springs, as well as a dropside bed
From the side, one can see that it rides on a set of 14-inch steel wheels. The rear then gets a pair of halogen taillights.
Interior
Inside, the occupants are greeted with hard but durable plastics all around. That goes for the vehicle’s dashboard as well as its interior door panels.
The manually adjustable seats are also clad in PVC, and the driver gets an analog gauge cluster, a turnkey ignition system, two cup holders, and manual air-conditioning.
Tech and Safety
For safety, the Lite Ace is kitted out with dual airbags. Both Lite Ace variants get antilock braking, though only the panel van gets stability control. All variants do come with electric-assisted power steering, as well as a steering lock.
Simple, but not barebones
While simple, the Lite Ace is not barebones. This is because it actually comes with a 2-DIN audio unit that’s capable of playing CDs and AM/FM radio. It also has USB, Bluetooth, an aux input jack, and it is paired to a two-piece speaker system.
Moreover, only the Lite Ace Panel Van variant comes with power door locks for its front, rear and back doors.
Engine
The 2023 Toyota Lite Ace is powered by a 1.5-liter inline-4 gasoline mill. Yes, this is the 2NR-VE, which is the same four-banger that the Toyota Veloz and Avanza currently use. On the new Lite Ace though, it has a different output rating of 94 horsepower and 134 Nm of torque. The said engine is then paired with a five-speed manual gearbox sending power to its rear wheels.
Own a business? Then the Lite Ace might suit your needs
Suspension-wise, the Lite Ace uses a MacPherson strut for the front. For the panel van, its rear uses a five-link coil spring type suspension. The pickup truck’s rear in turn, gets leaf springs. Braking for this model is handled by front disc brakes, and rear drum brakes.
Price
With regards to pricing, the pickup truck retails at Php 570,000. The Panel Van meanwhile can be had for Php 655,000. Furthermore, Toyota also bestowed the new Lite Ace also comes with a three-year, or 100,000 km warranty, whichever comes first.
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