Toyota Hiace Van review

We’ve got all the info you need on the popular Toyota Hiace van. Find out if the Toyota Hiace is the right choice for you!

Introduction

The Toyota Hiace is one of the most popular vans in the world, and it offers a great combination of reliability and convenience. With its spacious interior, powerful performance, and superior safety features, the Hiace is an ideal choice for families and businesses alike. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the features, advantages and disadvantages of the Hiace van so you can decide if it’s right for you. Keep reading to learn more about the Toyota Hiace van!

Is Toyota Hiace a good van?

The Toyota Hiace is one of the most popular vans in the world, and it offers a great combination of reliability and convenience. Whether you choose the LWB Van, LWB Crew Van, SLWB Van, SLWB Commuter or the Commuter GL, you’ll be getting a vehicle that offers plenty of space and power. With a 2.8L turbo diesel engine and up to 6200L of loadspace volume, the Hiace is capable of handling whatever you throw its way. Plus, it comes with Toyota Safety Sense features such as Road Sign Assist, Auto High Beam, Lane Departure Alert and Pre-Collision Safety System to keep you safe on the roads. It also features a reversing camera, front and rear parking sensors, and up to 9 SRS airbags for added protection.

For added convenience, it also comes with Toyota Connected Services, such as Stolen Vehicle Tracking, Automatic Collision Notification, and SOS Emergency Call. The exterior has been completely redefined with a lower, wider front doorstep for easier access, and there are tons of optional add-ons available such as canvas seat covers, interior wall protectors, dash cameras, nudge bar, cargo barrier and more. All in all, the Toyota Hiace is an excellent choice for a reliable, convenient and safe van.

Toyota hiace van
The Toyota Hiace is one of the most popular vans in the world, offering a great combination of reliability and convenience.
Photo credit: Toyota.com

Is Toyota Hiace a safe van?

Yes, the Toyota Hiace is an extremely safe van. It comes with a range of advanced safety features to help keep you and your passengers safe on the roads. The Pre-Collision Safety system is a smart pedestrian and daytime cyclist detection technology, which uses a front-mounted camera and radar designed to detect potential collisions. The Road Sign Assist feature can recognise certain speed limit signs even when you’re using Cruise Control. Plus, the Lane Departure Alert will alert you with a buzzer and display a visual warning if you veer from your lane at more than 50km/h.

The Toyota Hiace also provides better protection all round with its up to 9 SRS airbags, so you can feel safe and secure in your vehicle. It also comes with front and rear parking sensors, as well as a reversing camera so you can easily navigate tight spaces. Audio alerts are triggered when a rear or frontal collision is likely, giving you plenty of time to react. Finally, the engine immobiliser helps prevent theft and unauthorised access. All these features make the Toyota Hiace a great choice for a safe and reliable van.

“Fantastic van, never missed a beat, great work horse”

Gabe.C (satisfied customer)

How much does a Toyota Hiace Van cost (new)?

The price of a new Toyota Hiace van can range from $44,760 to $56,070 depending on the model, options, and features. The most basic LWB 6-speed manual plus double overdrive transmission model is priced at $44,760 and the top of the range SLWB Barn Door is priced at $56,070. There are also many other options available in between, such as the LWB 4-Door Barn Door at $47,510 or the LWB GL at $47,760. Whichever model you choose, you’re sure to get a reliable and safe van that won’t break the bank.

How much does a Toyota Hiace Van cost (second hand)?

The price of a second-hand Toyota Hiace van can vary depending on its year, model, condition, features, and mileage. Generally, you can expect to pay anywhere from $5,000 to $50,000 for a used Hiace van. For example, a 2002 Toyota Hiace LWB Van in average condition with low mileage could cost around $15,000. Meanwhile, a new 2020+ Toyota Hiace SLWB Van in great condition with all the bells and whistles could cost upwards of $45,000. Prices can also vary depending on a specific dealer and marketplace, so it’s best to compare prices from multiple sources before making a purchase. With a second-hand Hiace, you can get the reliability and safety of a Toyota without the hefty price tag.

Note: All prices are in USD

Toyota hiace van
The Toyota Hiace comes with a range of advanced safety features to help keep you and your passengers safe on the road.
Photo credit: Toyota.com

How long do Toyota vans last?

Toyota vans are renowned for their reliability and durability, making them an excellent choice for a family car or work van. On average, a Toyota Hiace van can last for about 10 – 15 years and around 150,000 – 200,000 miles provided it is well maintained. This makes it a great option for those who are looking to invest in a reliable van that can last them several years and cover many miles.

Are Toyota Hiace sold in USA?

No, the Toyota Hiace is not sold in the United States as it does not meet North American safety standards. The van has a unique design with the engine located at the bottom, which affects aerodynamics and makes it unsuitable for US highways and roads. However, the Toyota Hiace is still sold in many other countries around the world, including Asia, the Middle East, Africa, Oceania, Mexico, and Latin America.

“Been a brilliant car. Compact vehicle with a nice long storage area inside.”

My Two cents (satisfied customer)

Which is better diesel or petrol Hiace?

When it comes to the Toyota Hiace, both diesel and petrol versions offer great reliability and performance. However, when deciding between diesel or petrol, it’s important to consider factors such as cost, Toyota Hiace fuel consumption, and maintenance needs. Generally speaking, diesel engines offer more torque than petrol engines which can provide better acceleration and towing power, making them great for heavy-duty usage. Diesel engines tend to be more fuel-efficient as well, with the Toyota Hiace diesel engine achieving around 8.2L/100KM compared to the petrol version which gets around 12L/100KM. However, diesel engines may require more frequent servicing than petrol ones and can be more expensive to maintain. Ultimately, it’s a matter of personal preference and budget when deciding which engine is better for you.

How many seats in a Toyota Hiace van?

The exact number of seats in a Toyota Hiace van varies depending on the region and model. Generally, there are 2 to 6 seats available in the van models and 10 to 17 seats in the commuter models. The standard van options include 2, 3, 5, or 6-seats while the commuter options come in 10, 12, 13, 15, 16, or 17-seat configurations. No matter which configuration you choose, the Toyota Hiace is a great option for families or businesses looking to transport multiple passengers in comfort and safety.

Toyota hiace van
The standard van options include 2, 3, 5, or 6-seats while the commuter options come in 10, 12, 13, 15, 16, or 17-seat configurations
Photo credit: Toyota.com

Advantages of a Toyota Hiace Van

The Toyota Hiace is one of the most popular vans on the market, and it’s easy to see why. Whether you need a reliable work vehicle, a spacious family van, or just a reliable and comfortable ride, the Hiace has you covered. Here are some of the advantages of opting for a Toyota Hiace van:

●      Spacious interior; with up to 17 seats and a high roof, the Hiace is perfect for larger groups.

●      Powerful engines and excellent fuel economy; provides a comfortable and enjoyable driving experience.

●      Versatile suspension and chassis; allow the Hiace to handle heavy loads with a generous towing capacity.

●      Toyota Safety Sense features; offer advanced driver assist systems to help ensure your safety and that of your passengers.

●      Pre-Collision Safety System; helps to reduce the severity of a collision.

●      SRS airbags; up to 9 airbags provide additional protection in the event of an accident.

●      Fuel efficiency; offers excellent fuel economy, allowing you to get more mileage out of every tank of gas.

●      Versatile options; from diesel engines to 4WD and different body type options, the Toyota Hiace has a range of configurations to suit your needs.

●      Add-ons; customise your Hiace with a range of accessories for enhanced style and convenience.

●      Comfort and convenience; features like power windows, air-conditioning, automatic high beam and a rear-view camera make the Hiace an even more comfortable ride.

●      Durability; robust construction and Toyota’s quality assurance ensure that your Hiace will last for years to come.

Disadvantages of a Toyota Hiace Van

As with any vehicle, there are some downsides to consider when opting for a Toyota Hiace van. These include:

●    Not available in the US; the Hiace is extremely popular in other parts of the world, but it isn’t available for purchase in the US.

●    High cost of purchase and ownership; purchasing a new Hiace can be expensive, while long-term maintenance costs can add up over time.

●    Heavy weight; the Hiace is a relatively large and heavy vehicle, which can affect fuel economy.

●    Lack of customization options; there are fewer customization options for the Hiace than for some other vehicles.

●    Age; given that the Hiace was first introduced in 1967, some older vehicles may lack modern features and technology.

Toyota hiace van
Features like power windows, air-conditioning, automatic high beam and a rear-view camera make the Hiace an even more comfortable ride.
Photo credit: Toyota.com

FAQ’s about Toyota Hiace Vans:

Is Toyota Hiace van a 4WD?

Yes, the Toyota Hiace is available with a 4WD option. However, this feature is only available in two models: the Hiace Commuter and Commuter GL. Both models feature an electronically-controlled four-wheel drive system that provides improved off-road capabilities and stability on difficult terrain. The 2WD model offers a more economical drive, while the 4WD is better suited for off-road driving. Both models come with a range of features and safety technologies to ensure reliable performance and peace of mind, no matter where you go. 

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How many gears does Toyota Hiace van have?

The Toyota Hiace is available with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission. Both transmissions provide smooth and efficient gear shifting, giving you a comfortable and enjoyable driving experience. The 6-speed manual also features double overdrive for better fuel efficiency and emissions performance. The automatic transmission includes a sequential shift mode and paddle shifters for added convenience. With either transmission, you can be sure to get the most out of your Toyota Hiace.

Are Toyota Hiace van good for towing?

Yes, the Toyota Hiace is a great option for towing. It has a powerful engine and capable drivetrain, making it well-suited for towing trailers and caravans. Depending on the model, a Toyota Hiace can support up to 1900kg of payload when it comes to towing. The suspension and chassis are designed to handle the weight and stress of towing, providing a smooth and comfortable ride. Additionally, the Hiace also comes with a rear-view camera so you can easily keep an eye on what’s behind you when towing.

Toyota hiace van
Depending on the model, a Toyota Hiace can support up to 1900kg of payload when it comes to towing.
Photo credit: Toyota.com

Conclusion

The Toyota Hiace is an excellent choice for those seeking a reliable and versatile van. With its spacious interior, powerful engine, and safety features, it is an ideal choice for families and businesses looking for a vehicle that can handle their needs. While there are some downsides to consider, such as its high cost of purchase and ownership, the Hiace is still one of the best vans on the market. So, if you’re in the market for a reliable and capable van, the Toyota Hiace should be at the top of your list!

What do you think? Have you taken a look at a Toyota Hiace lineup? Are you convinced to buy a Toyota Hiace van? Let us know in the comments below!

Sources

https://www.toyota.com.au/

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https://global.toyota/en/newsroom/toyota/26716528.html

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Ken

I’m originally from the bush, but I currently live in the big smoke of Sydney, Australia. I am based out of here for work, where I fly Cargo operations all over the world. I am no stranger to the open road and have previously road tripped my way all around Australia in a station wagon and a tent as I progressed from job to job building flying experience for my Aviation career. This blog is all about detailing my journey as I seek to trade my city life for Van life. Things that really attract me to Van life are the Freedom, Minimalism and Financial Independence it brings.

Ken has 61 posts and counting. See all posts by Ken

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