Toyota has launched a flagship version of its new Quantum range – the generously-equipped VX derivative includes 4 individual reclining captain's chairs for rear passengers, as well as an array of standard driver assistance systems.

Price-wise, the Quantum 2.8 LWB VX 9-seater (R843600) is positioned between the top-end Kia Grand Sedona (2.2CRDi SXL) and entry-level Mercedes-Benz V-Class and Volkswagen Caravelle (the V200d and 2.0BiTDI PanAmericana 4Motion, which costs R913 951 and R962800 respectively. Toyota says its newcomer “will appeal to high-end family, hospitality and corporate buyers”.

The 2.8 LWB VX is distinguishable from other derivatives in the Quantum range by its large chrome-look grille (with 3 horizontal slats) that neatly integrates with the LED headlamps. The chrome detailing continues with a thin strip in the front apron, a prominent V-shaped garnish on the tailgate (between the LED tail light clusters), plus matching finishes on the door handles and side mirrors. Seventeen-inch alloys round off the package.

Compared with lesser Quantum derivatives, the 2.8 LWB VX 9-seater is festooned in chrome embellishments.

The driver benefits from features such as smart entry and start, a rake- and reach-adjustable steering column, a multi-function ‘wheel, an electrically-adjustable driver’s seat, auto-retracting side mirrors with blind-spot monitoring functions, dual-zone climate control and power windows, a 4.2-inch multi-information display (in combination with high-definition Optitron instrumentation), rain-sensing wipers, auto-locking doors and a Bluetooth-enabled touchscreen infotainment system replete with a reverse-view camera, of which the video feed isappended by guiding lines.

Rear passengers gain access through a pair of power-operated sliding doors and benefit from an independent climate-control console, power windows, a rear sunshade and a multitude of USB ports. There is a quartet of individual Captain's chairs (replete with armrests, reclining backrests and fold-out "ottoman" legrests) in the 2nd and 3rd row of the newcomer, which is complemented by a 3-seat 60/40-split bench right at the back. The finish the cabin with a flourish, the flagship Quantum's quilted leather upholsteryis complemented by wood trim and soft blue LED lighting.

Second and 3rd-row occupants can ensconce themselves in captain's chairs thatrecline (electrically so in the 2nd row).

Extensive safety suite

Meanwhile, the 2.8 LWB VX comes with a host of driver assistance, which includes a pre-collision safety system (PCS) with pedestrian detection (day and night) and cyclist detection (day only), high-speed active cruise control, lane-departure alert, road-sign- and automatic high beam assist.

The PCS is designed to detect vehicles, pedestrians and cyclists by using a camera and radar sensors, and assists the 2.8 LWB VX’s driver with visual and audible warnings, braking assistance or autonomous emergency braking if they fail to heed the warnings. The lane-departure alertfunction, in turn, will warn the driver if the system detects that the Quantum has deviated from its lane with visual and audible alerts and, if necessary, provide steering assistance via the braking system.

The flagship Quantum's interior is trimmed in quilted leather and features smart light-blue ambient lighting.

According to Toyota, the system also incorporates a road-sign assistsystem that can recognise certain speed limit signs and display them on the aforementioned multi-information display in the instrument cluster. Other safety features include 9 airbags, PDC all round and rear cross-traffic alert.

Lastly, the 2.8 LWB VX is powered by a 115 kW 2.8 GD-6 turbodiesel that produces 420 Nm (1 600 – 2 200 rpm). The powerplant is mated with a 6-speed automatic transmission driving the rear wheels.

Price and after-sales support

The Quantum 2.8 LWB VX 9-seater costs R843600, which includes a 3-year/100 000 km warranty and a 9-services/90 000 km service plan as standard.Own a Toyota? Tell us about your experience here.

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