Got this article from motioncars. I think this is larger than the Starex... Will this be worth considering?

Something for the entire clan:
Toyota's Hiace GL Grandia lands in the Philippines
Posted Friday, 10 June 2005
http://www.motioncars.com/

Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) announces this June the launch of the all-new Hiace GL Grandia. The new Hiace is packaged with an entirely new concept that combines large cargo space for functionality, a unique styling that gives an advanced powerful look, and a driving performance, which incorporates a Direct Injection 4-stroke Common Rail Diesel Engine (D-4D). The new Hiace GL Grandia raises the standard in the van segment by providing customers with an evolution of functions: capacity, durability, reliability, economy, comfort and a higher level of Luxury.

The new Hiace was not merely designed for functionality; it was also developed to make work and operation more enjoyable. Its exterior emphasizes a square body to portray a dynamic form. The Hiace engineers pursued an innovative exterior style suitable for a vehicle that is bound to last. The dynamic front view features voluminous sweeping curves and a big masculine bumper to emphasize the advanced styling, which goes beyond the traditional image of a commercial vehicle.

Its dimensions are considerably bigger than its commuter variant which was launched last January. Its length, width, and height are 4,695 mm by 1,695 mm and 1,980 mm respectively. It is accentuated with color keyed front and rear bumpers, chrome front grille, outside view mirror, and outside door handles. Rear wiper and window defogger are also incorporated in the Hiace GL Grandia. Tires and wheels are also specified at 195/80 15 inch tires steel with full high grade caps.

The newly developed package of the Hiace offers long, wide interior space with three rows of passenger seat with the width that allows a passenger load of eleven adults to sit in comfort with ample leg space. Its height and width suit the configuration of the wide sliding doors that allow two passengers to get in and out at the same time. This is complimented by the side step for easy entry and exit of passengers, whether adult or child. In addition, mechanical lock type sliding doors make downgrade loading or unloading much easier.

The new Hiace is powered by a 2KD-FTV, 2.5-liter turbocharged diesel engine with advanced common rail fuel supply system that provides the torque that a commercial vehicle requires. Unlike conventional injection systems, the common rail system makes sure that the proper air-fuel mixture reaches each cylinder for injection, and along with turbo-charging, achieves powerful torque of 260Nm per 1,600 to 2,400 Rpm, maximum output of 102 horsepower at 3,600 rpm.

The new Hiace Grandia purses the comfort and luxury of a family van, while it offers maneuverability with the toughness needed by a hard-working vehicle. In addition, the small minimum turning radius of five meters contributes to nimble handling in tight places despite the wide body and long wheelbase.

The double wishbone front suspension uses torsion-bar springs, while the rear has leaf springs. Special attention is paid to spring hardness, the stiffness of the spring attachment points, and shock absorber action optimized for both front and rear suspensions. This results to superior handling and stability, and an overall comfortable ride. The new Hiace is available in three shades: Silver Metallic, Dark Gray Mica Metallic, and Nobel Pearl Toning. It is offered at P 1,290,000 for the monotone and P1,305,000 for the two-tone. Toyota’s latest market offering will be available for viewing for all interested customers at all authorized Toyota Dealerships nationwide starting June 13, 2005.