Published: Commercial Motor, 02 Mar 2000
Power Struggleby:
Colin BarnettWhen we first tested the Toyota Hiace back in 1996 we decided it was good enough to give the European manufacturers some sleepless nights. Now it has more doors, more wheelbase, more trim levels and more options. What more could it possibly need? Read on and we'll tell you.
Verdict
Over the years Toyota has answered criticisms over lack of choice to the point that the Hiace family members now extend into double figures. There are variations of length, door ayout and trim to meet most needs, but one aspect still needs addressing: Toyota's use of the name Powervan as the one element mising is power If it is to truly compete with rivals from Mercedes-Benz and Volkswagen, as it does in every other respect, then the arrival of a more willing diesel engine can't happen a moment too soon.
Until that day, the Toyota Hiace offers a versatile range of well-built vans that certainly won't lose their value in a hurry, but we won't do anything else in a hurry either.
Vehicle Specifications
Toyota Hiace 2.4D GS
| Fuel Consumption: | 26.9mpg(10.5lit/100km) |
| Average speed: | 61.6km/h |
| Gross weight as tested: | 3,000kg |
| Net payload: | 1,235kg |
| Price as tested: | £14,047(ex-VAT) |
