The Toyota HiAce is on its 55th year since its global launch in October 1967 and has grown into development ever since. There are several changes in different aspects throughout the years, including its exterior and interior looks, total body size, functionalities, safety features, performance, and more.

In modern time, the Toyota HiAce is commonly used as shuttle services, public transport vehicles, camper vans, ambulances, luxurious celebrity customized vans, and big family vans. Clearly, the HiAce is a versatile vehicle fit for several lifestyles and needs.

There are various Toyota HiAce variants to choose from depending on your preference, budget, needs, and wants. If you're wondering whether the HiAce is the perfect fit for you, listed below are some things you would like and some things that are not desirable for your next car.

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There are several variants to choose from

There are 11 HiAce variants to choose from, depending on what would suit your taste. Prices vary based on the size of the vehicle, features, technology, safety and security, performance, capacity, and even colors. Since the Toyota HiAce is used for different purposes, Toyota Motor Company introduced various HiAce interiors - including the Toyota HiAce Commuter van, which is best used as a public transport vehicle. There is also the Toyota HiAce Cargo van which is perfect for business services or if you are looking for a van to move your cargo conveniently. And there are the regular base and top-of-the-line variants that are fit for different kinds of people.

It has a wider body than its competitors in the market.

The most massive Toyota HiAce variant measures 1,950 mm wide, which is relatively wider than its other competitors in the market. It will be an advantage for the passengers to have more comfortable seating. It is also an advantage for cargo movers because HiAce comes with a generous interior space.

The engine is at the front.

Unlike other van models and HiAce's previous versions, the new generation Toyota HiAce’s engine is upfront and not under the driver and the front passenger’s seats. It gives the whole interior an upgrade in styling, plus the driver can take advantage of the higher seats for better driving visibility. And more importantly, the front seats would never have to be uncomfortable because of the engine heat and vibration.

The headroom and the legroom are spacious.

Whenever you’re inside the Toyota HiAce, you would feel that this van is meant to be your home on the road as its headroom and legroom space is generous. Unlike other van models, the headroom and legroom of the HiAce are desirable to different human heights, which makes it easy to go in and out quickly.

It has a reliable engine.

Hats off to the Japanese automaker Toyota as the automobile company has always been the most reliable. There is no denying and no wondering why its engine is said to be reliable by its users. Over the other features, it is vital that if you are looking for a massive car like the HiAce, you must consider its engine capabilities as it would be responsible for the enormous weight the whole car would accommodate.

It is comfortable.

Just like other car models these days, the Toyota HiAce offers a developed riding comfort and luxury seating. It has a generous amount of headroom and legroom space which makes it a desirable family car for long drives. Plus, its higher variants come with one of the most comfortable recliner seats with a footrest you could ever sit on. Maybe that is why celebrities choose this model over the others because it gives them the comfort they need after a long day at work.

It is a versatile vehicle.

As I’ve mentioned, the Toyota HiAce is widely used for several purposes. More especially these days that Toyota has launched different variants depending on your needs like the Toyota HiAce Commuter van and the Toyota HiAce Cargo van. Although this van is highly customizable, Toyota now offers the HiAce that will need no more customization.

However, the HiAce may not get a not from you because

It comes in a boxy body form.

Although it is a big vehicle, you would still want a stylish-looking van, don’t you? However, the HiAce is not that stylish, it comes in a plain and flat exterior. Although this might not be an issue for all, it would be nice to improve its styling for the next generations.

The cabin's style design is not too impressive.

Just like its exterior, the interior finish isn’t that impressive too. The cabin is straightforward and has nothing special that would make it stand out among the rest in the market. It would have been nicer if Toyota has made its interior with a few more desirable features, and because this vehicle is made for a large group of people, it would be nice if the entertainment system is upgraded.

Starting could be difficult during cold weather.

It may not be an issue in most areas in the Philippines as we are in a tropical country. However, it could be an issue in some places like Baguio City and Benguet, where the weather is colder than the rest of the country.

It lacks some safety and security features.

Although the safety and security features of the Toyota HiAce vary depending on the variant, the safety and security features are still incomparable to its competitors. However, if you are looking for a safer and more secured van, you may want to consider other Toyota models as well.

Also Read: From Family to Business, Toyota HiAce is Your Guy