What are the major differences between Toyota Probox & Toyota Succeed? That is the question we will try to address in the following lines. Toyota introduced both Toyota Probox and Toyota Succeed vans in 2002. Both these Toyota cars were meant for light commercial needs. Both these cars were based on their more advanced version of Toyota Fielder. In some countries such as Peru, Bolivia, and Myanmar, the Probox model is being used as a taxi. These two cars received a facelift in 2014 to better meet the growing and somewhat changing needs of customers in Japan and elsewhere.
When it comes to reliable, practical, and budget-friendly vans, Toyota’s Probox and Succeed stand out in the Japanese automotive market. These boxy, no-nonsense vehicles have been workhorses for businesses and families since their debut in 2002. Whether you’re a small business owner in Nairobi, a taxi driver in Peru, or a family looking for an affordable utility vehicle, choosing between the Toyota Probox and Toyota Succeed can feel like splitting hairs. Both are built for durability, fuel efficiency, and versatility, but they cater to slightly different needs.
In this guide, we’ll break down the major differences between the Toyota Probox and Toyota Succeed, covering their design, performance, features, and ideal use cases. By the end, you’ll know which van is the perfect fit for your needs. Let’s dive in!
A Brief History of the Probox and Succeed
Toyota introduced the Probox and Succeed in July 2002, targeting Japan’s small business sector. The Probox replaced the Corolla Van, while the Succeed succeeded the Caldina Van. Both were designed as compact, multi-purpose vans (MPVs) based on the Toyota Corolla Fielder platform, blending practicality with Toyota’s legendary reliability.
These vans quickly gained popularity beyond Japan, especially in East Africa, Southeast Asia, and Latin America, where their affordability and ruggedness made them favorites for commercial use and even as taxis. In 2014, both models received a significant facelift, improving fuel efficiency and modernizing their interiors. While the Succeed was discontinued in May 2020, the Probox continues to thrive, with stable sales of around 48,000 units in 2021.
Detailed Description Of Toyota Probox and Toyota Succeed
Although both these cars are in a van shape, Toyota Probox was marketed as a light commercial vehicle. However, Toyota Succeed is sold more as a station wagon which can be used as a commercial vehicle as well. The Toyota Probox (short for a box) and its more ‘luxurious’ twin, the Succeed, have been on sale in Japan since 2002. Both the Probox and the Succeed are designed as small multipurpose commercial vans. They both feature efficient engines, large luggage compartments and can be used to match any business requirements such as luggage handling and passenger transportation, etc.
Both these cars are especially popular in under-developed countries or among people who do not want to spend much money but want to have a good running car which serves not only as a vehicle for transporting goods but also works well for carrying passengers. These cars are cost-effective vehicles having a spacious interior and fairly comfortable seats.
Although both Toyota Probox and Toyota Succeed, the two light commercial vehicles, were introduced by Toyota at around the same time, they have some minor differences worth mentioning. In the following lines, we are going to list these major differences between Toyota Probox and Toyota Succeed. With the facelift of the two vehicles in 2014, the fuel consumption of both engines is reduced by 18%. The cars may not look good to an ordinary passenger who cares about luxury as well. However, recently, Toyota has made some aesthetic improvements in the interior and exterior of both the cars to make them more acceptable to families as well who want to enjoy a comfortable ride.
Key Similarities: Why They’re Often Compared
Before diving into the differences, let’s look at what makes the Probox and Succeed so similar:
- Shared Platform: Both are built on the same Corolla-based platform, ensuring similar handling and reliability.
- Engine Options: They offer 1.3L and 1.5L petrol engines (with a 1.5L hybrid added later) and, in some models, a 1.4L diesel engine.
- Commercial Focus: Designed for businesses, both have spacious cargo areas and foldable rear seats.
- Fuel Efficiency: Post-2014 models boast improved fuel economy, with up to 18% better consumption.
- Durability: Known for lasting over 300,000 km with minimal maintenance, they’re built to handle tough conditions.
These similarities make both vans appealing, but their differences set them apart for specific users.
Major Differences Between Toyota Probox and Toyota Succeed
1. Design and Dimensions
The Probox and Succeed may look like twins at a glance, but their dimensions and styling reveal distinct purposes.
- Size: The Succeed is slightly larger, measuring 105 mm longer than the Probox (4,240 mm vs. 4,135 mm). Its cargo compartment is also 20 mm longer, offering more space for goods.
- Weight: The Succeed is heavier, averaging 1,140 kg compared to the Probox’s 1,000 kg. This makes the Probox nimbler but less stable under heavy loads.
- Exterior Styling: The Probox has a utilitarian, boxy look with a focus on function over form. Its front grille, bumper, and rear gate are simpler, prioritizing cost savings. The Succeed, while still boxy, has slightly refined aesthetics, with a more polished grille and rear combination lamps, making it look less industrial.
- Target Aesthetic: The Probox is marketed as a no-frills workhorse, while the Succeed leans toward a station wagon vibe, appealing to those needing a dual-purpose vehicle.
Who Wins? If you need maximum cargo space or a slightly more professional appearance, the Succeed is better. For a compact, lightweight van, the Probox takes the lead.
2. Interior and Comfort
Inside, the Probox and Succeed reflect their target markets: utility versus versatility.
- Seating: Both seat five adults, but the Probox uses bench-type seats, which are less comfortable for long drives. The Succeed has more cushioned, contoured seats, ideal for passenger transport.
- Interior Features: The Probox’s cabin is spartan, with a simple dashboard, manual windows (often called “oars” in Japan), and minimal frills. The Succeed offers a slightly upscale interior, with better materials, more storage, and a central cupholder that can hold a 1L carton.
- Cargo Flexibility: Both have foldable rear seats to expand cargo space, but the Succeed’s larger compartment can hold up to 89 A4 copy paper boxes compared to the Probox’s 80.
- Comfort Level: The Succeed is designed for mixed use, making it more family-friendly. The Probox prioritizes function, with a focus on cargo over passenger comfort.
Who Wins? The Succeed is the better choice for comfort and family use, while the Probox suits those prioritizing cargo and cost.
3. Load Capacity
For businesses, load capacity is a dealbreaker.
- Probox: Can carry up to 400 kg, thanks to reinforced rear shock absorbers and a continuous rear axle in 4WD models. It’s ideal for light cargo like packages or equipment.
- Succeed: Handles up to 450 kg, matching its predecessor, the Caldina Van. This makes it better for heavier loads, such as construction materials or bulk goods.
- Stability: The Succeed’s extra weight and longer wheelbase provide better stability when fully loaded, while the Probox may feel less planted.
Who Wins? The Succeed wins for heavier loads and stability, but the Probox is sufficient for lighter, everyday deliveries.
4. Performance and Fuel Economy
Both vans are engineered for efficiency, but their engine choices and fuel consumption differ slightly.
- Engines: The Probox offers a 1.3L (2NZ-FE) or 1.5L (1NZ-FE) petrol engine, with a 1.4L diesel (1ND-TV) in some markets. The Succeed sticks to a 1.5L petrol engine, with a 1.3L option discontinued after 2014. Both added a 1.5L hybrid later.
- Fuel Economy: The Probox’s 1.3L engine achieves up to 18 km/L, while the Succeed’s 1.5L engine manages around 15 km/L. Post-2014 models improved efficiency by 18%.
- Transmission: Both offer CVT or manual options, with the Probox’s 4-speed automatic (Super ECT) available in older models.
- Driving Dynamics: The Probox’s lighter weight makes it more agile in urban settings, while the Succeed’s heavier build offers a smoother ride on highways.
Who Wins? The Probox is more fuel-efficient, especially with the 1.3L engine, making it ideal for budget-conscious drivers. The Succeed’s larger engine suits those needing more power.
5. Target Market and Use Cases
The Probox and Succeed cater to different audiences, despite their overlap.
- Probox: Marketed as a light commercial vehicle, it’s a favorite for delivery services, small businesses, and taxis in countries like Kenya, Peru, and Bolivia. Its low cost and rugged build appeal to those prioritizing utility.
- Succeed: Positioned as a station wagon, it’s suited for mixed commercial and personal use, such as corporate fleets or families needing a versatile vehicle. It’s less common as a taxi but popular in Japan for passenger transport.
- Global Appeal: In East Africa, the Probox dominates due to its affordability (starting at KSh 230,000 in Kenya) and availability of spare parts. The Succeed is pricier (around KSh 28 million in Uganda) but valued for its comfort.
Who Wins? The Probox is best for budget-focused businesses, while the Succeed suits those needing a balance of utility and comfort.
6. Availability and Pricing
Availability and cost are critical for buyers, especially in the used car market.
- Production Status: The Succeed was discontinued in May 2020, making it harder to find new models. The Probox remains in production, with consistent sales.
- Pricing: Used Probox models start at $3,510 (FOB Japan), while the Succeed starts at $3,860 as of April 2025. In Kenya, a used Probox costs around KSh 230,000–1,300,000, while the Succeed is slightly higher.
- Maintenance: Both benefit from Toyota’s widespread spare parts network, especially in Africa and Asia, keeping maintenance costs low.
Who Wins? The Probox is more affordable and easier to find, giving it an edge for cost-conscious buyers.
Which Should You Choose?
Choosing between the Toyota Probox and Toyota Succeed depends on your priorities:
- Choose the Probox if:
- You need a budget-friendly van for light cargo or taxi services.
- Fuel efficiency is a top concern (18 km/L with the 1.3L engine).
- You prefer a compact, agile vehicle for urban driving.
- You’re okay with a basic interior and minimal comfort features.
- Choose the Succeed if:
- You need extra cargo space and a 450 kg load capacity.
- Comfort is important for passengers or family use.
- You want a slightly more refined look for professional settings.
- You’re willing to spend more for a versatile station wagon.
For small business owners in Kenya or taxi drivers in Peru, the Probox’s affordability and reliability make it a no-brainer. For corporate fleets or families in Japan, the Succeed’s comfort and larger size are worth the extra cost.
Why People Love Toyota Probox/ Toyota Succeed?
- People love these two cars as light commercial vehicles because both are very economical in terms of fuel economy.
- Toyota marketed Probox as a reliable car. It has rear shock absorbers which can carry 400KG worth of goods. On the other hand, Toyota LandCruiser, despite all its bells and whistles, can carry only 350KG of weight.
- Toyota Probox serves as a multi-purpose vehicle. It can carry even more weights than recommended without having any performance issues.
- Its spare parts are available in most of the countries around the world. So, it becomes easy to maintain.
- It provides reasonable safety features such as airbags
The Probox and Succeed embody Toyota’s knack for creating vehicles that solve real-world problems. Unlike flashy SUVs or sports cars, these vans prioritize function, durability, and affordability—qualities that resonate in developing markets. Their success in East Africa, where the Probox is a cultural icon (even inspiring a song by RDX in Jamaica), shows Toyota’s ability to cater to diverse needs.
Toyota’s decision to keep the Probox in production while discontinuing the Succeed reflects its focus on commercial buyers who value consistency. The 2014 facelift, which avoided drastic changes to appease conservative buyers, further highlights Toyota’s understanding of its audience.
Tips for Buying a Used Probox or Succeed
If you’re considering a used model, here are some tips:
- Check Mileage: Both vans can handle high mileage (300,000+ km), but inspect for wear on suspension and brakes.
- Verify Model Code: Use codes like NCP50V (Probox 1.3L) or NLP51V (Succeed 1.5L) to confirm specs.
- Inspect Cargo Area: Look for signs of heavy use, like dents or worn flooring.
- Import Costs: Factor in shipping, duties, and taxes when buying from Japan via exporters like BE FORWARD or Carused.jp.
- Test Drive: Ensure the van handles well under load and check for smooth transmission shifts.
Conclusion: Probox vs. Succeed—Two Sides of the Same Coin
The Toyota Probox and Toyota Succeed are like siblings with different personalities. The Probox is the scrappy, budget-friendly worker, ready to tackle deliveries or taxi runs with unmatched efficiency. The Succeed is the polished sibling, offering extra space and comfort for families or mixed use. Both are reliable, fuel-efficient, and built to last, making them stars in Toyota’s lineup.
If you’re torn between the two, consider your budget, cargo needs, and whether passenger comfort matters. For most small businesses, the Probox’s low cost and agility make it the go-to choice. If you need a versatile van with a touch of refinement, the Succeed is worth the extra investment—assuming you can find one.
Ready to pick your Toyota van? Share your thoughts in the comments, and let us know which one suits your needs!
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