TOYOTA TOWNACE NOAH: Which Version Do You Like for Used Car?

The Transformation of the Toyota TownAce Noah

First Generation (1996 – 2001)

The TOYOTA TOWNACE NOAH went on sale in October 1996 as the TOYOTA TOWNACE WAGON edition that adopted “Noah” as a second name. The most significant feature of the exterior design was the switch from a cab over style to a semi-cab over style. As a result, a front bonnet was installed, and the crushable zone was enlarged for improved safety; thus, this model veered off from the TownAce style to date. Moreover, two variations of roof styles – the standard roof and high roof – were available in the lineup. The body size measured in length, width, and height at 4,435mm, 1,695mm, and 1,855mm (standard roof) or 1,935mm (high room), thus maintaining the 5 number size.
As for the interior, using the fact that it became a semi-cab over to full advantage, the engine was installed under the floor, leading to increased storage space and allowing users to comfortably walk through. Riding capacity of 6 people, 7 people, and 8 people in 3 rows of seats was available in the lineup.

The inline four-cylinder 1,998cc gasoline engine with 130 horsepower and the 2,184cc diesel engine with 91 horsepower were made available.

The transmission options for all vehicles consisted of the 5-speed manual and 4-speed automatic.

For all vehicles, the drive system options were the FR and 4WD. In particular, the 4WD was a full-time 4WD.

Fuel consumption measured at 11.0km/L for the gasoline engine FR vehicles and 9.9km/L for the 4WD.

In January 1998, with the aim to improve safety, the equipment options were enriched. Seatbelts with pretensioner and force limiter were installed to the driver’s seat, and seatbelt alarms were installed in all vehicles as standard equipment. Furthermore, the instrument panel design was changed, and by creating space for 2DIN, a multi-AV station was able to be installed.

In December 1998, minor changes were made to the interior and exterior. For the exterior, the designs of the front grille, headlights, and front bumper were altered, leading to a sportier look. Moreover, in terms of the interior as well, the design of the instrument panel was changed, leading to greater quality and enhanced usability.
In addition, an intercooler was newly installed to the diesel engine, resulting in an improved power output of 94 horsepower.