Toyota Coaster now safer

Fresh from releasing an upgraded HiAce van, Toyota Australia has now introduced a revised Coaster bus bringing more safety and "driver appeal".

All three Coaster variants now come standard with a reversing camera, satellite-navigation and three-point seatbelts for all 21 seats.

However, all three Coasters are now also $2000 more expensive than before, with the 2015 Standard manual costing $114,400 plus on-road costs and the Deluxe manual priced at $118,400 plus on-road costs (and a further $7000 for the automatic version).

Reversing camera and navigation images are displayed on a new 6.1-inch touch-screen as standard across the line-up, with voice-recognition to control basic audio, navigation and connected smartphone functions.

Other system features include audio streaming, FM radio text, iPod control, USB input and a CD player.

Toyota say the additional equipment offsets the Coaster's $2000 price hikes.

To meet regulations, there's also an electronic speed-limiter, which is controlled by the engine computer to limit speeds at 100km/h, but there are no other mechanical changes to the carryover Euro 5 emissions-compliant 4.0-litre turbocharged common-rail diesel engine.

It continues to deliver 397Nm of torque at 1800rpm and maximum power of 110kW at 2700rpm, and the Deluxe auto continues with a four-speed self-shifting transmission.

Towing capacity remains unchanged at two tonnes and other standard features continue to include a 95-litre fuel tank, factory air-conditioning, anti-skid brakes, power steering, tilt and telescopic adjustment for the steering column, reclining driver's seat, vinyl seat trim and a centre-folding door.

Deluxe variants still come with fabric seat trim, a gliding-type centre door, power door locks, an upper window for the driver's door, and two cup-holders on the dashboard.

Like all new Toyota vehicles, the Coaster is covered by Toyota Service Advantage, which in this case caps the first six scheduled services at $360 each.

Toyota Australia has sold nearly 20,000 Coasters in the past 38 years, mainly to charities, community groups, local government, hotels, tour operators and mines.

"The reversing camera, sat-nav, touch-screen audio and voice-control functions will be welcomed by anyone who operates a Coaster, be it a professional tour driver or a volunteer from the local services club," said Toyota Australia Executive Director Sales and Marketing, Tony Cramb.

2015 Toyota Coaster pricing (plus ORCs):
Standard manual – $114,400
Deluxe manual – $118,400
Deluxe automatic – $125,400