Posted in car review

2014 Toyota Probox and Succeed – Updated practicality

 Published Date: 03/16/2020
The Toyota Probox (short for professional box) and its more ‘luxurious’ twin, the Succeed, have been on sale in Japan since July of 2002. Both the Probox and the Succeed are designed as small multipurpose commercial vans. They both feature efficient engines, large luggage compartment and can be customised to match any business requirement. This explains why both the Probox and Succeed are not designed to be catchy to the eyes as compared to the Toyota Fielder, which they are both based on. To better meet the demands raised by customers, Toyota has decided to update both the Probox and the Succeed.
Toyota Probox 

Exterior
Both cars receive a new front design with a new front bumper, grill, bonnet design and headlamps. New rear lights and the addition of an optional reverse camera complete the revamped look. The profile and boxy shape remains unchanged. Six new body colour options are now available for both cars.
Toyota Succeed 

Performance
Two engine options are available for both cars. The 1.3L1NR-FE engine and1.5L1NZ-FE feature Dual VVT-i and are paired to a Super CVT-i transmission. The transmission delivers smooth acceleration while boosting fuel efficiency. Power is sent either to the front wheels (in the 2WD version) or to all four wheels (in the 4WD version). Fuel consumption for both engines has been reduced by 18%. Hill Start assist is now fitted as standard on all Toyota Probox and Succeed models.
Profile remains unchanged 

Ride
The engineers have optimized the overall structure of the suspension. The revamped suspension delivers a more comfortable ride and stability. In addition, all models now feature a speed-sensitive electric power steering. This makes both the Probox and Succeed easier to handle on the road and lets the driver enjoy a comfortable drive.
Boxy shape for easy loading of items 

Safety
The new front design of both the Probox and Succeed reduces pedestrian head injury if they are unfortunately hit. A new emergency brake signal, which flashes the hazards during heavy braking, is fitted as standard. This helps to warn other drivers in time, thus preventing rear end collisions. A new ABS system and larger brake discs offer more braking performance for quick deceleration.
Redesigned cockpit 

Interior
The new dashboard has been design to suit the driver. The front seats have been optimised to offer a firm support from the back to the waist. The seats also feature a slide and recline feature to boost comfort. The seats can also be adjusted in height to match the physic of the driver.

Toyota Succeed interior 

Numerous storage areas located all-round the interior can accommodate numerous items that the driver might need to carry. The Probox’s ‘rear bench’ has been slightly improved to offer more comfort. The Succeed on the other hand gets larger comfortable seats with individual headrests for both outer seat occupants. The shape of both cars and large rear cargo door allows for boxy items to be loaded and unloaded with ease. Both cars can carry items with a total weight of up to 400kgs.

Toyota Probox interior

The luggage space can be increased further by folding the rear backrests. The rear seats can also be removed entirely to allow for a more flat floor. A seat belt latch, located at each sides of the door, prevents the belts from been caught up when folding the rear backrest. The standard manual air conditioning offers improved cooling and heating.  

New rear lights 

Verdict

The latest updates to both the Toyota Probox and Succeed make them more capable both as passenger and commercial vehicles. The car will definitely be an attractive choice for buyers in the used car market in this side of the world.  Prices start at ¥1,317,600 (Kshs 1.14 million).