Toyota Hiace – A Detailed Look at Every Model
The Toyota Hiace is a minibus and light commercial van built by Japanese automaker Toyota. First introduced in 1967, the Hiace is now in its sixth generation and has earned a global reputation for reliability, durability, and versatility. Over the decades, it has become one of Toyota’s most trusted work vehicles, operating successfully in demanding environments around the world.
The Hiace is available in multiple body styles, including a cargo van, commuter minibus, passenger wagon, luxury van, pickup (older generations), ambulance, and camper conversion. This wide range of configurations allows it to serve private owners, businesses, and institutions alike.
Core Features and Design
The Hiace uses a one-box van design built on a strong monocoque frame. As generations evolved, the Hiace grew in size and capability, offering short and long wheelbases, standard, high, and super-high roofs, and multiple seating layouts.
Thanks to its robust body construction and dependable engines, the Hiace has found use as a taxi shuttle, delivery van, school or staff bus, ambulance, and mobile workshop. Its ability to handle heavy loads and harsh operating conditions makes it a favorite across Africa, Asia, and the Middle East.
Interior and Comfort
Standard Hiace Interior
Basic Hiace models come with two front seats and a three-seat rear bench, leaving ample cargo space behind. Standard features include:
Air conditioning with front vents
Dash-mounted gear shifter
Double-DIN radio
Rearview camera
Analog instrument cluster
Multifunction steering wheel
Storage options include door pockets, a glovebox with a tray, and center cup holders.
Hiace Commuter Interior
The Hiace Commuter is designed for high passenger capacity, offering 10, 12, 14, or up to 16 seats, depending on configuration. It includes front and rear air-conditioning vents, with rear fan controls mounted behind the front seats.
Hiace Wagon Interior
The Hiace Wagon focuses on passenger comfort, featuring 10 seats with rear captain seating. Standard equipment includes:
Navigation system
Push start/stop button
Power windows
Rearview camera
Dual glovebox and multiple storage compartments
Hiace Luxury Van (GranAce / Grandia / Granvia)
The luxury variant offers 6 to 8 premium seats, with leather upholstery, powered and heated captain seats, wood trim, and dual-zone climate control. A 7-inch infotainment system supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, paired with a premium 12-speaker sound system.
Exterior and Dimensions
The Hiace is offered with Standard Roof, High Roof, Long Wheelbase, and Super Long Wheelbase options.
Standard Roof: Compact height, ideal for urban use
High Roof: Increased headroom for passengers
Super Long Wheelbase: Up to 5,915 mm in length, ideal for high-capacity transport
Exterior features across models include large headlights, wide wing mirrors, strong bumpers, sliding side doors, and 15- to 17-inch wheels, depending on trim level.
Engine Options and Fuel Consumption
The Toyota Hiace offers both petrol and diesel engines:
Petrol Engines
2.0L 1TR-FE 4-cylinder
2.7L 2TR-FE 4-cylinder
3.5L 7GR-FKS V6 (higher trims)
Diesel Engine
2.8L 1GD-FTV turbocharged 4-cylinder
Transmission options include 5- or 6-speed manual and 4- or 6-speed automatic gearboxes.
Fuel Consumption (average):
Petrol: 8–9 km/L
Diesel: 12.5 km/L
Seating Capacity Overview
Depending on the model and configuration, the Hiace offers between 5 and 16 seats:
Hiace Cargo Van: up to 5 seats
Hiace Wagon: up to 10 seats
Hiace Luxury Van: up to 8 seats
Hiace Commuter: up to 16 seats
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Final Verdict
The Toyota Hiace is one of the most versatile and dependable vehicles ever produced. Whether used as a business van, school bus, shuttle, luxury people mover, or camper, it consistently delivers durability and practicality.
For families, entrepreneurs, transport operators, and institutions alike, the Hiace remains a proven, reliable, and long-lasting investment—a true workhorse that continues to perform under pressure. Shop the Toyoya Hiace stocklist and own one today.