Toyota Proace Review 2024
Toyota Proace At A Glance
Cheap to run, comfortable to drive and capable of carrying a maximum payload of 1400kg, the Toyota Proace is a compact van with big potential. All versions are stylish and good to drive, while Toyota's low running costs and impressive warranty provide added peace of mind for those looking to keep costs down.
Built in France, as part of a joint agreement with Citroen and Peugeot, the Toyota Proace is almost identical to the Dispatch and Expert. However, unlike its French counterparts, the Proace was launched with a more comprehensive five-year 100,000 mile warranty. In 2021 Toyota cut its standard warranty to three-years, with the option of up to 10-years' cover if owners choose to have their van serviced at the Toyota dealer network.
Available in three body sizes and two wheelbase lengths, the Proace can be specified as a van or crew cab, with panel or glazed/semi-glazed size walls. Most versions will carry 1400kg and tow up to 2.5 tonnes, while crew and combi models will seat up to nine.
Accessing the load bay is easy, thanks to the twin side sliding doors which - on medium and long versions - are wide enough for a Euro pallet. Long versions will carry a maximum of three Euro pallets, while a Smart Cargo system increases load length capacity to 1.16 metres. The 250 degree opening rear doors make it easy to access the back of the vehicle, without the doors blocking the road when loading and unloading.
The Proace has two diesel engines - a 1.6 or a 2.0-litre - and an electric version to choose from. Power outputs are 95PS, 115PS or 122PS for the diesels, while the electric model has 136PS and a choice of two battery sizes.
The sweet spot in the range is the 1.6 unit with 115PS. Not only does it provide lots of torque for hauling heavy loads, but it will officially return 54.3mpg.
The electric version is ideal if you'll mostly drive in a city centre with a low emissions zone. Toyota says an everage city centre driver will cover 27 miles per day, well within the range of the 50kWh (142 miles) and 75 kWh (205 miles) battery models.
Behind the wheel the Proace feels more like a family car than a van, with high levels of refinement and handling. The steering is responsive and the ride is quiet and comfortable, even when unladen. The Proace is also extremely nimble, which makes it hassle free to drive in town, while its low roof (1950mm) makes it easy to fit into multi-storey car parks.
Standard equipment is generally fine, with all models getting DAB radio, cruise control and a full size steel bulkhead. However, air conditioning and a vehicle alarm are not included. The side sliding doors also feel a bit light and flimsy.
Compared to the Ford Transit Connect and Volkswagen Transporter, the Proace feels lacking in build quality – but hey, that five-year warranty more than makes up for it. As do its impressive carrying capacity, claimed 54.3mpg economy and the fact that you can have it as an EV. As a result it should be an appealing compact van for anyone operating on a tight budget.