All-new Toyota Tamaraw: Variants, Specs, Features

The comeback of the iconic Toyota Tamaraw nameplate is probably, if not one of, the most-awaited things from Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) over the past year.

With several previews over the past few months, including a big one at the 9th Philippine International Motor Show (PIMS), everything you’ll want and need to know about this comeback is already out in the open (well, except pricing). So here’s everything.

The all-new Toyota Tamaraw is available in two lengths— short wheelbase (SWB) or long wheelbase (LWB). Both can be had in the following standard configurations:

• Aluminum Van
• Dropside
• FX (Utility Van)

Size-wise, the SWB version measures at lengths ranging from 4,795 to 4,970 mm while the LWB version measures at a length of 5,305 mm. All come at a width of 1,795 mm, and heights ranging from 1,711 to 2,100 mm. Payload capacity is anywhere from 830 to 1,125 kg, depending on the chosen configuration.

Conversion options will also be available through TMP Conversion & Accessories and Toyota Mobility Solutions Philippines. These configurations are:

• Patrol Van
• Ambulance
• Refrigerated Van
• School Bus
• Freezer Van
• Telco Van
• Insulated Van
• Patient Transport
• Camping Car
• Food Truck
• Pet Grooming
• Mobile Store
• Mobile Service Vehicle
• Fire Truck

As we’ve discussed before, the all-new Tamaraw is largely identical, if not the same as the concept versions, wearing what Toyota calls Retro Polygon styling. The front fascia is composed of rugged design details including but not limited to its plastic bumpers, and squared-out headlights. The side is all utilitarian with steel wheels on most variants while the rear features a set of simple rectangular taillights. 

Its interior screams utility with its rectangular theme mixed with a few round elements such as on the airconditioning vents. Depending on the variant, you’ll find that the steering wheel has been lifted straight off the Hilux and Fortuner, or the Vios.

As for standard equipment, the Aluminum Van, Dropside (lower-spec), and FX variants all get halogen headlights, 14-inch steel wheels, blacked-out front grille and Toyota badge, bench-type seats (including rear side bench seats for FX), 2DIN audio head unit, PVC seat material, and manual airconditioning. 

Going for the Dropside Hi (high-spec) variant adds LED headlights and daytime running lights, 16-inch alloy wheels, black+body color front grille, silver Toyota badge, orange interior accents, separate seats, 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (both wired), and power-adjustable side mirrors.

Under the hood, the all-new Toyota Tamaraw comes with two powertrain options—gasoline or turbodiesel choices.

SWB variants will be powered by a 2.0-liter 1TR-FE Inline 4-cylinder gasoline engine with dual VVT-i. This produces 139 horsepower and 183 Nm of torque, exclusively mated to a 5-speed manual transmission.

On the other hand, LWB variants will have a 2.4-liter 2GD-FTV Inline 4-cylinder turbodiesel engine. With a 5-speed manual transmission, this produces 150 horsepower and 343 Nm of torque. Getting the Dropside (high-spec) variant puts in a 6-speed automatic transmission and bumps up torque to 400 Nm.

As for safety, only the high-spec Dropside variant gets dual front airbags, anti-lock braking system, and electronic brake distribution. 

Pricing has not yet been announced as of this writing. We’ll update this article once that becomes available. What we do know is that it will start at Php 750,000, as confirmed by TMP Assistant Vice President for Marketing Andy Ty. 

Customers will also be able to enjoy a three-year or 100,000 kilometer general vehicle warranty, whichever comes first. Meanwhile for the rear body of conversion units, customers will be able to take advantage of the following warranties, whichever comes first:

• Aluminum Van – One year or 20,000 km
• Utility Van – Three years or 100,000 km
• Rear deck panel of dropside pickup (Rust and paint defects only) – One year or 20,000 km
• Trim Parts – One year or 20,000 km
• Accessories – One year or 20,000 km

TMP will also be offering easier acquisition options through Toyota Financial Services with low downpayment, longer loan terms of up to seven years, or weekly payment options for buyers. Also on offer is a trade-in package through T-Sure for all-new Tamaraw buyers, and various insurance packages through Toyota Insure.

What do you think of the all-new Toyota Tamaraw’s body option and specification list?