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Having a heritage as rich as Toyota can pay dividends as seen by the brand's latest efforts to resurrect iconic nameplates from the past, or reimagine existing ones. The 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser J250 and the new Toyota 4Runner are just a few of the many examples. On the other end of the spectrum, iconic sports cars like the upcoming Toyota Supra and the upcoming Toyota Celica stir the souls of enthusiasts. Today, I am talking about something a lot humbler.
While most carmakers are pushing tech-heavy cars in your face, Toyota is one of very few legacy carmakers that offer a no-nonsense, basic transportation that is reliable enough to serve as, both, workhorse and a commuter car, in certain countries. While not a global model, the Toyota Probox is widely praised by enthusiasts for what it is. Here's what you need to know about this basic, yet trusty Japanese model.
What is the Toyota Probox?
The Toyota Probox is sold in two variants – a station wagon (Probox Wagon) and a commercial van (Probox Van), In Japan, it is also called the Toyota Succeed (2002-2020) and in 2018, Mazda produced its own variant, called the Mazda Familia Van DX. The first generation (XP50/XP51) is based on Toyota's NBC platform while the second generation (XP160) is based on the B platform. Both platforms were first featured on the Toyota Yaris, but feature a longer wheelbase.
If it works don't fix it
Toyota Probox hasn't really changed since it first arrived in 2002. The combination of simplicity, versatility, affordability, and dependability made Toyota a sales leader in every country the Probox was available. Since 2022, Toyota Probox sales have steadily been sitting at over 50,000 a year, with the first couple of years (2002-2008) marking the strongest sales – 70,000-90,000 units per year. The Japanese model is particularly popular in East Africa where it is commonly used as a taxi.
The engines ranged from 1.3 to 1.5 liters and there was also a 1.4-liter turbodiesel. They were all variants of the same mills used in the Toyota Yaris (called Vitz on some markets). Power ranges from 75 to 109 horsepower. While typically front-wheel drive, the largest engine was also available with four-wheel drive. Transmission-wise, you could choose between a four-speed automatic, a five-speed manual, or a CVT, depending on the engine and model year. Due to the Probox being light on tech and features, it tipped the scales at 2,425-2,579 pounds.
What people love about it
You know a car is good when people are raving about it even in regions it isn't common. From admiring the simplicity and versatility of the Probox to recognizing the tuning potential (in terms of cosmetics), to sharing import prices, people on Reddit have a lot to say about the Toyota Probox. Here are some of the highlights:
Tayloredition: “We love these here in Jamaica so much!!!! The most reliable thing ever i swear. There are about 4 of them in my family alone".
“Can't walk 5 feet here without seeing one. Some people make them look absolutely incredible.”
Lincolnlogtermite: “It needs a lift and bigger wheels. It’s screaming to be a SUV.”
AntiqueSecond4224: “It was £4900 for a 2017 model with 40,000km Including shipping and tax.”
“...completely flat rear floor so it will carry as much as a minivan. I want to put a mattress in the back and go wild camping in the countryside.”
Awakensleep: “Awesome. This sort of shape is why I keep my first gen Highlander.”
CarFreak777: “Very common in Kenya. Very simple, but at the cost of safety.”
Embarrassed_Mix_1118: “I own a 2019 hybrid version here on the Isle of Man 🇮🇲, it’s the only one. I wasn’t sure how many was about in the UK, I only knew of one other and that was silver.”
“Love it, really do. I’ve had hybrids for years, so the car and its unique qualities (that you know all about) is the icing on the cake.”
I would add that the interior is as functional as the exterior. Made with budget-friendly materials, but built sturdy. The cabin offers optimized space for five passengers and many clever features like folding tables, retractable cupholders, and a flat cargo area.
I also love the idea of a modern car that is as tech-free as possible, and can be had with 14-inch steel wheels.
What are the chances that Toyota will make the Probox a global model?
On a slightly humorous note, Toyota is already making some rather cheaply-made cars in terms of material choices. Although most owners are happy with their Toyotas, there have been some quality issues, like the Tundra's sound insulation around the door area, the Lexus GX melting mirrors and trim, and others. If Toyota is truly making cheap stuff, why not go all in and make the Probox more widely available?
Although the Probox is still in production, it isn't a global model. Toyota is already working on resurrecting more affordable models like the Starlet, which will be loosely based on the Yaris. There is also the Miata-rivalling Toyota S-FR, and even the Stout pickup truck, all of which promise to spice things up a bit while not costing a small fortune.
The Probox was always built on pre-existing platforms, so it's cheap to make. The Yaris/ Starlet platform would serve as the perfect platform for the next generation of this versatile van/ wagon.
There are a couple of reasons why Toyota will, likely, never make the Probox a global model. It is a one of the brand's most affordable models, meaning Toyota will not make a ton of money per unit. Moreover, making the Probox available on more developed markets could hinder sales of other Toyota models, like the Corolla Cross, which seems to be the closest thing we get to a Probox here.
Perhaps an EV remake? While not entirely out of the question, Toyota like many other companies, has backtracked on the EV-only strategy. But let me know what you think. Would a more global Toyota Probox make more sense as an EV model? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comment section below.
Dimitar Angelov's automotive interests made him an expert in a wide variety of vehicles. Japanese brands like Toyota are closest to his heart, although performance cars in general are his favorite segment, which is why he is constantly on the lookout for the best deals on the market. Dimitar Angelov's car passion and knack for the written word led him to complete a Master of Arts in Media and Communications, and classic car restoration. Dim is happy to get behind the wheel of any car and share his impressions. You can follow Dimitar on X, Linked-in, Instagram, and Facebook.
Image source: Be Forward/ YouTube (video linked in text)
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