By: IOL Motoring Staff
Prospecton, Durban - Toyota's revised, extended, nipped-and-tucked Quantum van/bus now comes in so many variations it's difficult to keep track.
It's available in three body styles - panelvan, bus and now, for the first time, crew cab - three wheelbases (4695mm, 4840mm and 5380mm) three roof heights, two body widths and a choice of petrol or diesel engines - either the 2.7-litre VVTi four (111kW at 4800rpm, 241Nm at 3800) so beloved of taxi drivers or a 2.5-litre turbodiesel, rated for 75kW at 3600 revs and 260Nm from 1600-2400 rpm.
The 2014 Quantum's chunkier front treatment has redesigned headlight clusters, larger grille openings in Toyota's trademark trapezoidal shape and a sharper-edged bumper with its corners pulled back slightly for a more dynamic look.
Even at the rear there are new tail-light clusters and a repositioned tailgate handle for easier operation.
ALL-NEW CREW CAB
This multi-tasker is based on the super long-wheelbase, wide-body, high-roof model and is available in either petrol or diesel. The Big Deal, of course is the second row of seats, providing accommodation for a team of six and huge amount of gear - and rapid response thanks to twin sliding side doors with windows.
Or you can fold the rear seats forward to create a cargo bay so big it may have its own weather system - or fold the backrest of the middle front seat forward to provide a convenient table, complete with additional cup-holders.
All Quantums have anti-lock braking and a driver's-side front airbag as standard issue, while the buses provide pneumatic protection for the front passenger as well, plus aircon, a radio/CD/MP3 player with four speakers and a USB port.
PRICES
2.7 Panel Van - R305 600
2.5 D-4D Panel Van - R334 400
2.7 Petrol Super-Long Panel Van - R345 400
2.5 D-4D Super-Long Panel Van - R362 300
2.7 10-Seater Bus - R394 400
2.7 14-Seater Bus - R409 400
2.5 D-4D 10-Seater Bus - R423 500
2.5 D-4D 14-Seater Bus - R426 300
2.7 Crew Cab - R355 100
2.5 D-4D Crew Cab - R372 000
These include a three-year or 100 000km warranty, a five-year or 90 000km service plan, and 24-hour roadside assistance.