The Toyota Hiace is available in a wide range of models, such as wagon, van, minibus, motorhome, and ambulance. The Hiace is clearly not the most modern panel van you’re going to come across, during the hunt for a vehicle that suits your business. However, cost is the major factor when people are looking to buy a business vehicle. This is what the USP of the Hiace is.
Two versions of the same engine are available to power the Hiace. The Hiace’s 2.5-litre, D-4 D engine is a powerful one. You can choose between either 88 or 102bhp power outputs. The 102bhp unit gives a healthy fuel economy of 37mpg. The driving experience is enjoyable and comfortable.
The fifth generation Hiace was released in 2004. In this generation, the gear stick has been moved to the dash-board to enable easier movement in the cabin. You can choose from four speed, five speed and automatic versions. The actual driving position in the van is much more car-like than in the majority of large commercial vehicles. The steering wheel is angled very vertically, unlike most of the Hiace’s contemporaries. The seat is pretty well designed, too.
The Hiace is a solid van with a good engine, for a very reasonable price. It might not be the most advanced in terms of fancy add-ons, but overall it represents good honest value. According to Toyota, the Hiace is cheaper to run than competitors like Volkswagen’s Transporter, and the smaller Ford Transit models. The Hiace comes with a 3 year/60,000 mile warranty.
