Toyota South Africa Motors (TSAM) has launched a diesel powered Ses'fikile taxi with the promise of more power, lower fuel consumption and emissions and low noise levels.
The new derivative is the Toyota Ses'fikile 2.5 D-4D and is already available at Toyota dealers nationwide. The new model is powered by Toyota's tried and trusted 2.5 turbo diesel engine, which utilises common rail injection and a turbo charger to deliver 75 kW at 3 600 rpm. More impressively the D-4D offers 260 Nm of torque in a wide-band between 1 600 rpm and 2 400 rpm.
"Diesel power is highly popular among long-range taxi operators, thanks to the fuel consumption benefits. We believe city- bound taxi operators will also benefit from this engine's ample low-down torque that will ease the hours of stop-start driving," says Andrew Kirby, senior vice-president: Sales and Marketing at TSAM.
TSAM will further support taxi operators by not only offering the standard three-year 100 000 km warranty, but also by reducing the cost of service parts and components by an average of 23% to further reduce operational costs, he says.
Toyota has combined the introduction of the new Ses'fikile 2.5 D-4D with a range- wide upgrade. It is most visible on the exterior, where the lights, front bumper and grille have been changed to create a more modern look. Inside both the 2.7 litre petrol and new 2.5 D-4D versions now offer dual front airbags as standard equipment.
The D-4D has the same specification as its petrol-powered sibling. The comprehensive list of specifications include electric power steering, a tilt adjustable steering column, ABS with brake assist (BAS), seat belts for all 15 occupants, central locking and an emergency escape roof hatch, reflective highlights, a fire extinguisher, driver guard and an anti-theft system.
With a double wishbone front suspension and stabiliser bar, the D-4D costs R291500.
Just R20 for the first month. Support independent journalism by subscribing to our digital news package.