Toyota Proace City: Ultimate Compact Workhorse Guide

The Toyota Proace City delivers exceptional versatility in the small van market, blending car-like driving dynamics with robust load-carrying capabilities. Available in diesel and electric variants, it caters to businesses seeking efficiency, reliability, and low running costs.

Exterior Design and Build Quality

The Proace City’s exterior strikes a balance between professional appeal and practicality. Its streamlined shape avoids flashy elements, featuring a clean front grille with the Toyota badge prominently displayed. Robust plastic cladding along the sides protects against daily dings in tight urban environments.

Measuring approximately 4.4 meters in length for the standard L1 model, it navigates city streets effortlessly while offering two lengths to suit different needs. The design prioritizes function, with sliding side doors for easy access and a high roof option for increased volume.

• Compact dimensions: Ideal for parking in congested areas.
• Durable materials: Side mouldings resist scrapes.
• Professional styling: Understated look suits fleet operators.

Interior Comfort and Ergonomics

Inside, the cabin feels modern and driver-focused, with ample storage solutions throughout. The dashboard layout is intuitive, dominated by a 10-inch touchscreen and matching digital cluster on higher trims. Seats provide decent support for long shifts, though not the plushest in class, and the steering wheel offers good adjustment range.

Options include single or twin passenger seats, with a foldable middle seat doubling as a workspace. Visibility is strong forward and to the sides, aided by large mirrors, though rear views rely on cameras in equipped models.

Engine Options and Performance

Diesel models use a 1.5-liter unit in 100PS or 136PS outputs, paired with a six-speed manual or eight-speed auto on the stronger version. The 100PS variant handles one-tonne payloads smoothly, delivering over 50mpg in real-world tests, with potential for 60mpg lightly loaded.

The 136PS option feels lively across scenarios, benefiting from precise handling and a compliant ride. Both provide adequate torque for urban starts and highway cruising.

Electric Variant: Proace City Electric

The electric model shines in silence and responsiveness, with instant torque for city agility. It achieves 0-60mph in about 11 seconds, keeping pace in traffic, and offers a 213-mile range in updated form. Smooth operation helps avoid unintentional speeding.

• Diesel economy: 50-60mpg achievable.
• EV range: Up to 213 miles.
• Transmission: Smooth manuals and auto.

Driving Experience and Handling

Behind the wheel, the Proace City feels nimble and car-derived, with sharp steering and stable cornering laden or empty. The ride absorbs urban potholes well, and visibility aids confident maneuvering. Safety features like lane-keeping, autonomous braking, and adaptive cruise enhance safety.

The digital rear-view mirror projects a camera feed, useful for blind spots but tricky for judging tailing traffic distances. Overall, it’s unintimidating for new drivers yet capable for pros.

Loadspace and Practicality

Payload reaches 982kg, with 3.3 cubic meters of load volume in the L1. Smart Cargo features like under-seat storage and modular flooring maximize usability. The load area is square and accessible via wide doors.

Trims, Pricing, and Ownership

Starting around £22,500 + VAT for Active, prices climb to £28,000+ for loaded Sports. Icon adds parking aids and cameras; Sport brings alloys and style. Toyota’s 10-year warranty (with servicing) is a standout.

Running costs are low, especially for electrics with home charging, and diesels undercut rivals in fuel.

Safety Ratings and Technology

Diesels hold a four-star Euro NCAP from 2018 (expiring 2025), with comprehensive aids. EV unrated but shares similar tech. Standard kit includes hill start assist and braking systems.

Pros and Cons

• Pros: Reliable engines, vast warranty, practical load area, smooth drive.
• Cons: Seats could be comfier, some plastics feel basic, rear camera distance judgment.

Who Should Buy the Proace City?

Perfect for sole traders, plumbers, or delivery firms needing city-friendly transport. The EV suits eco-focused operators with charging access.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the fuel economy of the Toyota Proace City diesel?

Expect 50-60mpg in mixed driving, with official figures around 51mpg.

How far does the electric version go?

Up to 213 miles on a charge in the latest model.

What warranty does Toyota offer?

Up to 10 years with annual servicing.

Is it good for carrying heavy loads?

Yes, up to 1 tonne payload with 3.3-3.8m³ volume.

How does it compare to rivals?

Matches Citroën/Peugeot siblings but adds Toyota reliability and warranty.