The Toyota Hiace is one of those vehicles that can be whatever the owner wants it to be. As ever, trim levels and options vary from region to region but buyers can be confident in the vehicle’s reputation for dogged reliability. More recent versions of the Hiace come with ABS and a driver's airbag as standard. Central locking is also standard. However, it might not always be possible to find these features on earlier versions as this versatile vehicle had gone through five major upgrades during the long life of the model.
Reliability Is Key
The Toyota Hiace has, as mentioned, an enviable reputation for reliability, economy and an easy driving style. Changes made since the 2007 model year have strengthened its profile as a versatile choice, especially for the business user. The Hiace offers quality build and strong performance.
Latest versions of the 2.5 litre D-4D engine (previously a 2.4 litre) available have been re-engineered to deliver more power and torque, making the Hiace an even stronger market choice, while at the same time improving fuel economy and emissions. There is a choice of engine power outputs to suit different customer needs. Entry-level units deliver 94bhp at 3600rpm with torque up by a strong twenty percent. There is also a ‘high-performance’ version of the engine, the D-4D 120, where output is greater by 15bhp. Major service intervals are at 20,000 miles.
The new Hiace has a wide torque band in both the standard engine and the high powered model meaning less gear changing is required to achieve maximum torque power delivery thus making for a more comfortable, relaxed driving experience.
The look of the vehicle has varied quite a lot over the years with styling changes to the front end and interior plus some new options that include full-map satellite navigation and passenger front airbag. All these revisions ensure the Hiace remains competitive in its market segment, delivering the performance owners expect.
If the Toyota Hiace feels a little dated from behind the wheel it is because this vehicle is not about fashion. Seat adjustment and cabin space is limited but the driving position will be fine for most drivers and visibility is reasonable. Inside the cabin, the latest models offer an improvement to the quality of the driving environment. More contemporary seat fabrics have been introduced and some variants feature a premium audio set-up.
As before, all Hiace models are fitted with a driver’s airbag and ABS as standard. The safety provisions are strengthened with new front seatbelts with pre-tensioners and force limiters and the option of a passenger front airbag.
Crucial to the success of the Hiace is the big selection of body styles suitable for a wide range of different business and personal needs. This, plus the legendary reliability, makes this vehicle a wise choice for buyers who put practicality and value for money before automotive fashion.
Get in touch with us at MHH Japanese Cars for more details.
