Review of the Toyota ProAce

by: Fergus Gray

Fergus is a talented automotive writer specialising in automotive and sports content. He has a Level 3 qualification in content creation and previously worked for Boxxer and The Best of Bolton.

Toyota ProAce Review 2024

The Toyota Proace is a mid-sized van that slots in above the Proace City as a more spacious and versatile option. Despite being based on a platform first introduced in 2006, the ProAce Max offers updated features and versatility.

Rivals to the Toyota ProAce include the Citroen Relay, Peugeot Boxer and Vauxhall Movano.

Our Toyota ProAce review covers:

• Key Features
• Toyota ProAce Pros and Cons:
• Design, Practicality and Boot Space
• Interior and Trims
• Power and Performance
• Leasing vs Buying

Toyota ProAce Key Features

• Design is both stylish and functional, with a focus on ergonomic features
• Spacious cabin that comfortably seats three with ample headroom and legroom
• Payload capacity of up to 1400kg
• Range of two diesel engines
• Three trim levels are available: Active, Icon and Design

Toyota ProAce Pros and Cons:

Pros:

• Good turning circle
• Modern, ergonomic design
• Decent load capacity for size

Cons:

• The ride quality
• Limited engine options
• Cabin not the most spacious

Design, Practicality and Boot Space

The Toyota ProAce's design is both stylish and functional, with a focus on ergonomic features that enhance both the driver and passenger experience. The modern design consists of a revised front grille with sleek headlights, which gives it a confident stance. While some might find the van silhouette boxy, its practicality shines through.

Where the ProAce truly shines is in its practicality. It has a reasonably spacious cabin that can comfortably seat three in the front, with ample headroom and legroom. Features like foldable tables in the cabin and overhead storage compartments make it a truly versatile workhorse.

Depending on the model, the ProAce offers a maximum load volume of up to a whopping 1400kg. That's enough space for bulky furniture, equipment, or even a small band's instruments. It also has great accessibility with a wide-opening tailgate and side doors that make loading and unloading a breeze, whether you're dealing with bulky items or just grocery bags.

Interior and Trims

The interior of the Toyota ProAce is designed with functionality and comfort in mind, catering to the needs of both drivers and passengers. It features a user-friendly layout and modern trims, offering a pleasant in-cabin experience. Forget the usual stark van interiors. The ProAce welcomes you with a surprisingly refined cabin. The dashboard design is clean and functional, with intuitive controls and quality materials. The seats are comfortable and supportive, even on long journeys.

Attention to detail is evident in the quality of materials used, ensuring durability for commercial use. ProAce's interior is not just about practicality; it also focuses on creating an aesthetically pleasing environment, making long drives more enjoyable for its occupants.

Three trim levels are available: Active, Icon and Design.

The Toyota ProAce offers three trim levels with varying features. The Active trim includes amenities like twin sliding doors, a plastic-covered load floor, a full steel bulkhead, 16-inch wheels, electric windows, heated mirrors, cruise control, and remote locking. It also features a DAB radio, a USB port, Bluetooth, and two airbags. 

The Icon trim adds rear parking sensors, air conditioning, a windowed bulkhead with grille, an extra 12v socket, an adjustable driver's seat with lumbar support, and four airbags. 

The Design trim, building on the previous two, includes body-coloured exterior parts, 17-inch alloys, a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with navigation and Wi-Fi, an upgraded instrument cluster, foglights, front parking sensors, keyless entry, blindspot monitors, and the Toyota Safety Sense package.

Power and Performance

The ProAce comes in two engine sizes:

1.5-litre diesel: Available in 10obhp and 120bhp versions, this is a fuel-efficient option perfect for light loads and urban driving. 

2.0-litre diesel: This punchier engine comes in a 140bhp variant, catering to heavier loads and highway driving. It still offers decent fuel economy, providing a good balance between power and efficiency.

You can choose between a six-speed manual gearbox for ultimate control or an eight-speed automatic gearbox for smooth and effortless gear changes. The automatic option is available on most 2.0-litre diesel engines.

While not a sports car, the ProAce handles surprisingly well for a van. The steering is light and precise, making it easy to manoeuvre in tight spaces. The suspension offers a good balance between comfort and control, even when fully loaded. The more powerful 2.0-litre engines provide ample acceleration for overtaking and merging, making highway driving a breeze.

The Toyota Proace is a well-rounded van that offers a good blend of practicality, comfort, and refinement. It's a capable workhorse that's equally at home on the motorway and in the city. While some rivals might offer slightly more space or features, the Proace's strong point is its comfortable, car-like driving experience. If you're looking for a mid-sized van that's both practical and enjoyable to drive, the Proace is definitely worth considering when leasing. 

Leasing vs Buying

The Toyota ProAce is now available for purchase at a starting on-the-road price of £34,729.00*, or it can be leased with monthly payments starting from Price On Request.

If you're considering leasing a Toyota ProAce, we proudly offer excellent car leasing services in the UK. Our leasing deals include a manufacturer's warranty, road tax, breakdown insurance, and free delivery to most areas of the UK mainland (excluding specific regions).

Leasing a Toyota ProAce can often be a more financially advantageous option compared to purchasing outright, thanks to the fixed monthly payments, variable mileage options, low initial rental, and flexible contract durations.

It's important to note that the 'on-the-road' price mentioned includes a year's road fund license, DVLA first registration fee, and a number plate fee. Please be aware that this price is accurate at the time of publication and is subject to change. To get the most up-to-date information, we recommend contacting your nearest retailer.