Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) is set to reintroduce the beloved Tamaraw almost 20 years since it was last seen in our market. When the new Tamaraw was introduced last year during the company’s 35th anniversary celebration, it was introduced as the IMV-0 concept. Now, it inherits the Tamaraw name, and while those may be big shoes to fill, TMP is certain this new vehicle is up for the task.
The new Tamaraw was a surprise reveal during the annual Toyota Road Trek 17 event, an annual activity with members of the motoring media, this time held in Davao. There, various prototypes for the upcoming new Tamaraw were shown.
The new Tamaraw will still be built on the current IMV platform underpinning the likes of the Innova, the Hi-Lux, and the Fortuner. It appears there’s one last hurrah from the venerable platform before the new generation eventually steps in. This platform is known for its durability and versatility, making it suitable for a utility vehicle like the Tamaraw. Production will take place at Toyota's Santa Rosa, Laguna manufacturing facility after TMP invested about ₱4.4-billion to set up the assembly line for this new generation of Tamaraw.
The new Tamaraw
The new Tamaraw will be available in multiple variants and body styles, catering to different needs, which TMP generously gave a sneak peek of during our stay at Discovery Samal Resort. The Tamaraw will be offered with a 2.4-liter turbodiesel engine, most likely the 2GD-FTV shown in last year’s Tamaraw race pickup concept, and is available with either a 5-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission. The diesel engine produces 150-PS and up to 400-Nm of torque. Additionally, a 2.0-liter gasoline engine variant will be available in a short wheelbase, manual-only configuration.
The highlight of the new Tamaraw is its versatility in body configurations. TMP showcased several prototypes during various events, demonstrating the potential uses of the Tamaraw, and proudly stating that the prototypes were all built locally in the Santa Rosa plant. The body options include a utility van with folding side-facing seats suitable for passenger transport, a closed aluminum van designed for last-mile deliveries, and a dropside truck useful for construction supplies and other cargo. Additionally, TMP is considering an ambulance variant to serve medical transport needs, as well as an open patrol van for security and law enforcement purposes. A cab and chassis version is also under study for niche conversions, allowing for customized body applications.
According to a TMP employee, the company aims to standardize most of these body configurations in-house, but they may partner with local third-party body builders for a more efficient manufacturing arrangement. He also added that these third-party built bodies will only be available through Toyota, ensuring that they pass the stringent quality control standards of the company.
The interior of the new Tamaraw will vary depending on the variant. The top-of-the-line diesel variant will feature a 2-DIN touchscreen entertainment unit, likely offering more advanced amenities such as Bluetooth, USB, and smartphone connectivity. It will also have a gate-type transmission control similar to the current Fortuner and Hilux models. Other amenities include power windows (auto for the driver), central door locks, and power mirror adjustment. The basic models, both diesel and gas, will come with a simpler interior and features, most likely with manual crank windows and manual-adjust mirrors, reflecting their more utilitarian focus and to keep the vehicle affordable.
Toyota's strategy with the new Tamaraw is to offer a versatile and affordable utility vehicle. The company hinted that the pricing for the Tamaraw would start under a million pesos, making it an attractive option for businesses and individual buyers looking for a reliable and adaptable vehicle. The exact pricing and detailed specifications are expected to be announced closer to the launch date later this year.