Toyota HiAce

Could use some refinements 2022 – Vehicle has superb handling on corners and in and around bends. Definitely rides and handles smoothly on the road. Certainly a great achievement overall compared to the older series prior to 2019. Far more road grip and less away. Downfalls are over revving when taking off No fog lights as standard on the base model. No automatic door… Read more

illumination for the rear passenger stair well and automatic illumination of an evening in the rear seating section. Another easy fix. No arm rests up front especially for the driver. Toyota could really fix this quite easily. A good option to see would be a more refined dash and display system console that points towards the driver for easier access taking eyes off the road less. No heads up display. Noise coming from rear springs. No plastic moulding underbody for the front or rear wheels making it harder to clean out grime and mud etc. Could use a larger fuel tank. Cheap plastic moulding Interior with dashboard becoming excessively hot. Glove compartment broke within 3 months of purchase. Factory fitted rear parking sensors failed 6 months in. Headlights have intermittent issues where they will stay. Only way to turn them off is to shut down vehicle and manually turn them off. Excessive factory tow ball hitch noise. Provide a factory fitted emergency escape roof hatch which clearly should be factory fitted deep tint to stop your passengers from burning and also would be valuable if they had it so it could actually open so as to remove excess hot air.

Commuter coach service average 600 kms a day meaning refuelling twice daily.

Received a new one this year – I have driven hiaces on and off over the years. The earlier ones were horrid, thirsty, noisy and the ride and features were bleak at best. Over the years there were more refinements added and little tweaks here and there. Still I would prefer the Renault or transit over the hiace any day. Reliability is where the hiace beats the others. The… Read more

Renault was great until it needed work. Everything was super expensive. The Ford was great however with the super rough co workers and plastic floor it didn’t last long before bits and bobs were falling off it. The hiaces seemed to be less concerned with comfort like heated seats, removable clipboards, tie down points and fuel economy and more concerned with quality.

Anyway I received a brand new hiace for work recently, this replaced my old reliable one with over 300,000 on the clock. First impression was the difference with the new layout. It’s longer however the storage feels smaller. The gap in-between the seats is perfect for my fridge and coffee machine. I still only get about 600km to a tank, this is annoying when I do a 700k round trip as the transit and Renault got 900ks to a tank. It feels like I do nothing but fill it up, I’m now on a first name basis with the workers at my local servo. It does run around 9.5l per 100km so you can deduct that the tank size is the reason.

The seats are uncomfortable, the lane assist is annoying especially when it gets confused with the old lines not the new ones, no bulk head means you run the heater on max or you freeze, the cup holder in the middle heats up so it’s useless for cold drinks, the auto high beams are useless, it would be great to have armrests in the chairs, storage could be better, I prefer a bulkhead in the load bay, the mirrors are better than the old vans but still terrible and my biggest gripe is there is only 6 tie down points. The Ford and Renault have a lot more. Seriously as someone that carries a lot of stock, parts and tools it is awesome to actually be able to secure everything, for comparison the Renault had 18.

So far I have put 5000km on it in 3 weeks, so it’s been good. I have enjoyed the new tech a lot, however the gps doesn’t take the fastest option, I’ll need to look in the settings when I can be bothered. The middle cup holder heating up is perfect for prolonged warming of my coffees with how cold it’s been getting lately. The van runs well, drives well and has a reasonable amount of get up and go. Personally I like all the little spots to put things like fuel cards and the over head storage, however I find that the layouts in the Renault and transit are far better. The steering wheel button layout took a while to get used to and it is fairly straight forward.

All in all it is a decent van and I’m giving it 4 stars. Unfortunately it loses one because it has a small fuel tank, no bulkhead, lack of tie down points, the mirrors should be better and no arm rests on the seats.

Update – Have now been driving the van for about 17 months. I had a fuel injector problem after about 6 months that Toyota Rockingham sorted out under warrantee. It took some time to get it sorted and I was without the van for a couple of weeks which was not so easy. Since that everything has been good and it has just had its 50000k service and a recall tech upgrade. Show details

2021 Toyota Hiace ZR Some Problems – Only done 12000k's and it has developed a leak in the original windscreen just above driver side, this has damaged some electrics so warning messages on screen. Also front left tyre going bald on outside, this is apparently a known issue with technical bulletin, 2 new front tyres, wheel alignment and camber bolts replaced to fix and prevent the… Read more

issue happening again. This wasn't picked up at the first service and only now that I have mentioned it. Currently with Toyota for these warranty repairs. Very disappointing this has happened on a van only a year old. Otherwise happy with van, much safer and comfortable than the older ones. Purchased in NZ

Aquaplaining – Can only give 3 stars. It used to aquaplane on wet Gold Coast freeway. Last time doing only 80ks (being careful because of it) it aquaplaned, I'd no control at all, hit concrete barrier about 5 times then did a 180 and stopped facing oncoming, lucky it was 4:30 am otherwise a definite catastrophe. Show details

Paintwork shocking – Bought the van brand new in feb 2021 . Now have rust coming through under the rubber tailgate seal and bare metal around the drivers door where the rubber meets . It has now done 60000 kms and I’m heading for the third set of tyres . First ones ( Toyota ) lasted 21000 and were so low they were illegal . Fitted better ones $1000 for 4 and now… Read more

looking at changing again . The wheel alignment has been checked 3 times . Been back to Toyota , they are not interested in the slightest .

Starts and drives great but very disappointed in a $47000 purchase .

Very disappointed with this vehicle – We bought Toyota Hiace commuter GL 2020 it run about 140000 kms and got DPF problem, it was fixed after long discussion with dealer but still we paid labor for fix it also after 180000kms had problem of chain shaft noise and abs airbag malfunction notification error in the car now dealer said it is not under warranty. Very disappointed, don't buy this vehicle it looks very good but having lots problems. Show details

My New Toyota Hiace 2024 – Received the Van earlier than expected December 20 2024 rather than Jan 2025 Great So far so good it handles well although the new apple carplay is mainly for gps music messages I'm getting used to it the call sending and receiving is way clearer than old van Sirri is a major player on screen Going to Sydney in a couple of days so will put to the… Read more ·  1

test on fuel economy as I went to Euroa only got 9.5 litres per 100 on fuel economy light load last van we go 12.5l per 100k this one has Barn doors so we can load with fork lift getting used to them also the centre console was a great improvement with drink holders a quad lock system for phones would be good I'd Like to Mention Patterson Cheney they were great with Keeping me posted on my order they went beyond expectation as to sales and after sales Service this is my 5th Van purchased from them service is great they do what they tell you they going to do nothing Else unless they ask me so no unexpected bills Anyway I will do review when I get back on fuel economy and yes ill reset it on start to give it a fair go

I've decided I quite like Toyotas – If you don't believe the humble Toyota Hiace is one of the most bulletproof vehicles ever designed - go have a look on the roads. As at 2024, this model (released nearly 20 years ago) is still a mainstay for trades, delivery and campers. They are literally so ubiquitous you don't even notice them - until you look for them and they're everywhere.… Read more

Mine is a 2007 model, petrol - 5 speed manual. I bought it with 400,000 kms from a tradesman who was driving it on 3 cylinders because he clearly didn't like maintenance, but after spending a few bucks on parts it was running like a new spec Hiace, and I intend to put another 400,000 kms on it (or 20 years - whichever comes first). It's incredibly basic, with simple clean plastic dash and interior. Just the stuff you need and nothing you don't. If you wanted a plush ride, you wouldn't be driving a Hiace in the first place, but if you want a basic utility vehicle that goes forever, can carry everything, or can be used as a sleeper in a pinch these are great vehicles. Seating and space in the cabin is comfortable, and the cargo space is large. I cannot say these are immune to breakdown (mine has not), but that the mechanics are so straightforward that service is very easy; and with a minimum of attention they are very reliable. And with so many still on the road, parts are always easy and cheap to find. I use it as my daily drive, and for carrying materials around for landscaping and renovation. As I live in South Australia it occasionally has to do longer distances across the hot and dry, sometimes pulling a camper trailer (or I just sleep in it if travelling alone). Fuel economy is not so awesome compared to a sedan, at about 10.8L/100km, which is the price I pay for utility, and safety is not something you rave about sitting in the front of a metal box.

The best van ever made – Bought van in 1997, had 5000km on clock, was 1997 van. Brought in from Japan.still have it. The best van ever had. Had 6 vans in my time. It has always got me home. Done just over 1.6 million kms now. Had the usual wear and tear, brakes etc. Cracked the head at 7 hundred thousand kms. Just happened, had to reconditioned the injection pump at 1.2.… Read more

Sorry is a 3litre diesel turbo auto. I change the oil every 10,000kms. Air filter 50,000.will never sell, great seats, can drive all day, is a delight to drive. The passages have plenty of room in the back. Fuel economy not the best, but is all time 4 wheel drive, is just one of the best vans of all time. Pity they stopped making them.

Life is Hi ace – Fantastic Van got a 2014 5sp petrol lwb from new done just over 105k km now never missed a heart beat great work horse service regularly and on its 5th set of new Tyers . Only mistake toyota did was discontinued the 3 seater interior however the centre console is like a desk top organiser small gadgets to put nik naks in 4 cup holders… Read more

Fantastic. The radio system is a little primitive but pumps out great bass. Cargo interior is a little shorter than my previous model 2004 hiace however this doesn't change my opinion of what is a great Van

Loyal Friend – The HiAce I bought was second hand, it was a 1984 model bought in 2003. I bought it to use as a camper and it was very cheap because it had a lot of miles on it. The previous owner had converted it to LPG and it had no seats. As with all the Toyoras I have had experience with it was reliable, cheap and efficient. Never any problems with it and… Read more

if there was it was minor and parts and service is easy and cheap and readily available.

The other vehicles I refer to are Toyota Camrys and much the same story. Highly recommended. Well crafted vehicles, efficient and reliable.

2006 2.5TD 350000km and still going strong – No complaints, only servicing cost but it's a diesel and I haven't serviced it since 300000 apart from replacing injectors, timing belt and an oil change or two. I bought it with 120000km on it about 9 years ago. Been a brilliant car. Compact vehicle with a nice long storage area inside. Other similar size vans are too short at 2.4 in the back.… Read more

Sure the cab is small but if you're a "regular size" person it's no issue. Seats are fine, comfort is fine. Be sad to sell it when the time comes.

Getting There – Finally Toyota has got rid of their old outdated sit on the motor then the new HiAce is such a massive step in the right direction it has all the safety features which are amazing has plenty of room and a big plus is it has a very small turning circle but the only problem with that it shoes through the passenger front tyre lucky to get 15000 ks… Read more

out of them on the negative side it does drink a bit of fuel 1 major negative point the seats are very very uncomfortable it has a hard edge when entering in and exiting the vehicle as a courier driver which caused leg problems the aircon vents are poorly designed but apart from that it's got so much going for it and a step in the right direction

reliable – had my van for 15 years very happy no problems only cost is usual servicing materials as i do my own services every 5000 k spoken to many owners seems lots of problems caused from neglect and abuse with thoughts drive it till it stops. Show details

Solid workhorse – This is the second of this series Hiace I have owned, both 3lt diesel, first one auto, this one manual. Do a lot of highway kms, probably around 60%, currently has about 257,000kms on it. The van is relatively comfortable, although a bit noisy on the highway. I have not had any problems with it at all other than after a bad batch of fuel I had to… Read more

replace the fuel filter twice. The diff has been noisy for at least the last 8 years. The auto used quite a bit more fuel than the manual does. I change the oil and filters (air & oil) myself every 5,000kms, seeing I am not paying for labour it's not that expensive to try and ensure a bit of reliability.

Terrible – Bought this commuter bus to camp in after house burned down, after recommendation from Google and a few friends. Apart from problems like getting seated, etc. the MAIN problem is fuel consumption. It's supposed to use about 10/12 litres of petrol per 100km; but my figures have varied from 33 (yes THIRTY THREE) to, AT BEST, 17… Read more

litres per 100km after a $1600 service and a long highway-trip to 'blow it out'. Currently (around town) careful driving will achieve 25 litres per 100k. Apart from the major service, I had a thorough fuel-use analysis test done (another $450) where the exhaust was diagnosed and a complete computer-test run. NO PROBLEMS COULD BE FOUND. ..... and I was told Toyotas were known for these kinds of problems. (Currently there is a Class-Action being taken against Toyota for the same problem in their diesel-engined vehicles.) I would never go near another Toyota at any price!

767,000 Km and still a daily driver! – My 2004 Toyota Hiace fual fuel, 5 speed manual has over 767000 km and still going strong on interstate trips. Changed the power steering belt, engine mounts, and rocker cover seal. Its also due for a reconditioned or 2nd hand differential soon ($750 fitted). Highly reccomended. Not selling it even when I buy a newer van which I will because my Hiace has no safety tech. Show details ·  2

The ride in a 2017 Hiace like a bronco – I am a tradie who has plenty in the back of this fairly new Hiace ( 2017 ) , I have asked the official toyota service dept if there is something wrong with the suspension . Im told it all checks out and is fine .... I drive the Adelaide roads all day and it feels like a motocross track unless Im on a very new freeway type of road, yes we have a… Read more

couple of these roads here but the normal roads are not helping my plight . Every bump , every imperfection in the bitumen goes through the van like Í'm on solid rubber tyres . They specify 48psi in the tyres , forget that for a start if you run 48 prepare for a WORSE than I'm describing . I run 38psi and it may help. Pedders say they can upgrade the suspension for $1000 but I dont think it will help with the comfort . The bone rattler may be ok with just ping-pong balls in the back. I am trading it for a cab chassis .

Horrendous servicing costs – 2008 purchased with 160,000km 2014 Had 10k spent over and above normal items like batteries oil tyres and cambelts. $1000 DPF remove $1000 EGR replace $500 intake cleaned $1500 diff rebuilt $0 rebuilt diff replaced 2 months later $5000 turbo replaced ....twice $700 plastic pupe from turbo to something now steel as cracked during 2nd turbo … Read more

Still to be fixed Turbo actuator playing up again looking like $1000 Brake cables x3 csnt tell which one(s) syretched about $700 Injector seals replaced again $400 Reprogram for beyter performance $1000 Headlights need refinishing $300 Leak in cooling system Toyota couldn't find.

Nightmare.

Love the van – I , like a previous reviewer, am concerned about the way Hiace performs in high winds, is there anything that can be done, I'm a 71 yr old grey nomad , and I'm very scared at times. I get this serviced every time it's due, it's a great vehicle.. It had 390,00 on the clock when I bought it June 2017, and I have done 20, 000 so far. It's easy to drive, except for windy conditions.  Show details

Really scary and uncomfortable – Had to use this when Ford Transit Custom was being serviced. Only ok for short drivers, cabin space - headroom and foot space very cramped, moves around heaps - in a scary way in the wind. In the wet the steering is where you hope to go - you might go somewhere else though. Its just bad. Boss likes reliability but transit has 300,000km with no problems. Hiace also uses far more fuel.  Show details

Fantastic Van - Perfect for our needs! – Bought the van a year ago had 245,000 on the clock. Stripped it out and converted it into a campervan. Runs a treat and have already racked up 30,000km. Still runs exactly how I bought it, no dramas! Would recommend it to anyone looking to buy one for either work or leisure.  Show details

Most uncomfortable van on the market – My employer changed my van from a Renault traffic to a brand new Hiace. Now I want to get a different job as I have a 1 hr commute. It’s hard to get in and out off. It’s the most uncomfortable van. Noisy, it sounds like a tractor. I feel so unsafe, I am squashed into the front bumper. I have no room for anything in the cab. It’s not very economical either. It’s like an example of how not to make a van. Worst van I’ve ever had  Show details

Perfect for our work! – When looking around we needed a van that fit our medium sized containers and found at the dealer this was the best option. Many years later we have only had to get a few things fixed and services come back good almos all the time. The only small issue is we had to replace the side sliding door handle twice but we do use it a lot!  Show details

Fantastic back space runs bad on gas – The space in the back of this van is great for all my gear but having to travel far uses a lot more gas than I expected and at one stage out wayed my traveling expenses. It still runs but have had multiple expensive services to keep it running but over all would say it's ok  Show details

Great work companion! – Runs like a clock, shifts like a dream! Very basic interior but has everything u ever need. Got it brand new 2 years ago. Has done nearly 50k without any issue whatsoever! Drive around Sydney everyday, always carry heavy load for work. Petrol auto 12.6L/100km. Cost a bit more to run than the diesel but also more refined. A very satisfied purchase! A very reliable workhorse!  Show details

Decent van for the price – I have a 2016 Hiace LWB van, its been nothing but reliable. Not a single problem, noise or concern. I've just clocked up 30 000km in the first year and Im happy. Rides well - considering its a commercial* mines always loaded up as its a work van. I have the petrol auto model. Auto is the smooth and it has plenty of power. Fuel usage is good,… Read more

not great but it does carry a lot in the back.

It was purchased form Grand Motors Toyota. The salesman was super easy, didn't push all the extras on me.

Overall, very happy with my Toyota.

Perfect for Van Rental – Good Torquey diesel Van. Untouchable reliability track record. Vast, versatile load area.Great visibility.The Toyota Hiace van with a Sunliner conversion delivers all of that. The fit out is of high quality and all the safety features are there. CONS: • Age is starting to show - inside and out. • Not the easiest to climb in and out. • Cab forward layout means more engine noise creeps in.  Show details

Travellers Companion – My 2003 Toyota Commuter is the ideal vehicle for minimalistic travel. I have converted it to having a double bed (convertible to sears), fridge and sink ideal for road tripping or festival stays. The van runs fairly well, but does experience some technical failures on ignition; you just have to get the right knack to overcome this.  Show details

Quality – Price and warranty compared with iload Extras? Diesel engine always good Most problems sorted out A little bit crushed in front  Show details