Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) has previewed the next-generation Tamaraw Modern Public Utility Vehicle (MPUV) Class 1 at its manufacturing plant and headquarters in Santa Rosa, Laguna, expanding the model's applications to public transportation.

Based on the long-wheelbase utility van configuration, the MPUV received certification from the Department of Transportation (DOTr) in May 2026 for use as a modernised public utility vehicle. Its development began following the unveiling of the prototype by Toyota Motor Chairman Akio Toyoda three years earlier.

Designed for intra-city transport, the locally manufactured MPUV provides transport operators and cooperatives with an additional vehicle option. Its production also involves Filipino suppliers, fabricators, body builders and automotive workers.

The vehicle measures 5,068 mm in length, 1,785 mm in width and 2,280 mm in height. It has a wheelbase of 3,085 mm, a rear interior height of 1,580 mm, and front and rear tracks of 1,510 mm. Its gross vehicle weight is 2,790 kg, and its minimum turning radius is 5.45 metres.

The one-tonne cab-over vehicle accommodates 12 occupants, comprising two people in the front and 10 passengers in the rear, seated on bench-type seats. The passenger cabin features handrails, grab handles and a chequered stepboard, while the cabin door has been repositioned to the side to facilitate passenger access.

Standard equipment includes manual air conditioning, while the higher-specification version also features rear air conditioning. Other equipment includes a 2-DIN stereo system with AM/FM, USB, Bluetooth and auxiliary connectivity, two speakers, two cup holders and a rear interior lamp. The cabin features PVC seat upholstery, a four-way manually adjustable driver's seat, power steering, a urethane steering wheel and a driver's-side sun visor.

Connectivity and safety equipment includes 4G LTE Wi-Fi, GPS and an automated fare collection system that supports contactless payments. The CCTV system comprises a five-inch monitor and a video recorder, with cameras facing the front and the passenger cabin. Additional equipment includes a reversing camera, an emergency exit through the panoramic rear window and an emergency hammer. Exterior features include halogen headlights, a black front bumper, a Toyota logo and 195R14C tyres mounted on steel wheels.

The MPUV is powered by Toyota's 2GD-FTV 2.4-litre diesel engine, which has a displacement of 2,393 cc and produces 150 PS at 3,400 rpm and 343 Nm of torque between 1,400 and 2,800 rpm. The engine is paired with a five-speed manual transmission. The front suspension uses an independent double-wishbone arrangement, while the rear suspension employs leaf springs. The braking system comprises ventilated front disc brakes and rear drum brakes.

Like other Tamaraw models and conversion packages developed for the Philippine market, the MPUV is manufactured at Toyota's Santa Rosa plant. Local production supports employment and provides transport operators with access to Toyota's aftersales service network. TMP developed the configuration using feedback from local government units (LGUs), national government agencies, transport operators and cooperatives to address the requirements of public transport stakeholders.

The MPUV joins other Tamaraw applications, including ambulances, patrol vehicles, fire trucks, food trucks and community shuttles. Since its launch in 2024, the model has been used by businesses and organisations for various purposes.

The launch forms part of Toyota's plan to position the Tamaraw as the Philippines' 'National Car'. During the preview, TMP President Masando Hashimoto said, "The Tamaraw is a workhorse and a racehorse. It supports livelihoods, serves communities, and gives people something to cheer for. Today, we add an important missing piece: a jeepney. By becoming part of everyday public transportation, the Tamaraw becomes a true national car, a vehicle for all Filipinos."

Hashimoto further stated, "Through the Tamaraw MPUV, let us bring our strengths together to make everyday life better for commuters, transport operators, and communities. That is how we want to contribute to the Philippines: by delivering something people can use, depend on, and truly value in their daily lives."

Representatives from various government agencies, the Embassy of Japan and the Santa Rosa LGU attended the preview.

TMP also outlined financing assistance for eligible customers. Transport service entities (TSEs) can receive a subsidy of PHP 210,000 (US$ 3,345) per unit. Government bank financing is available with a 5% down payment and repayment terms of up to 84 months.

Alternatively, Toyota Financial Services offers financing with a 10% down payment and repayment terms of up to 60 months. TMP's wider network of dealers, suppliers, subsidiaries and affiliates supports more than 83,000 jobs nationwide.

The Tamaraw MPUV Class 1 is scheduled to be displayed at the inaugural Philippine International Truck Show (PITS), which will take place from October 22nd to 24th, 2026, at the SMX Convention Center. Other Tamaraw conversions will also be exhibited, with selected configurations available for test drives.