2017 Toyota HiAce Review

Detailed Review

The Toyota HiAce has been in production from 1967 to present and is currently in its sixth generation. Similar to the Land Cruiser pickup, the HiAce has undergone fewer iterations and has stuck to its winning formula. The current generation known as the H200 has been in production from 2004 and is radically different from previous generations. It features changes such as a bigger body, larger windows and a gear knob on the dashboard.

The 2017 Toyota HiAce comes with 3 engine options. These are; the 2.0L 1TR-FE petrol engine, the 2.7L 2TR-FE Petrol engine and the 3.0L 1KD-FTV turbo diesel engine. These are linked to either a 4-speed automatic transmission or a 5-speed manual transmission and available in both 2WD and 4WD

2017 Toyota HiAce Grades

1. 2017 Toyota HiAce DX- This is the base grade that comes with 15-inch steel wheels, power steering, halogen headlamps, front fog lamps, power windows, a fabric upholstery, central locking, a manual air conditioning system, a 2-speaker audio system with a CD player, USB port, and AUX jack.
2. 2017 Toyota HiAce GL- This is a mid-range grade that comes with additional features such as a touchscreen infotainment system, Power sliding rear door, power windows, central locking, rearview camera, and automatic air conditioning.
3.  2017 Toyota HiAce Super GL- This is the higher-end trim that comes with more features such as 16-inch alloy wheels, power door locks, keyless entry, a 6-speaker audio system, cruise control, fog lamps, automatic headlights, power-retractable side mirrors, and a rear spoiler.

Interior, Legroom & Space

The 2017 Toyota HiAce offers plenty of space for enough to accommodate up to 16 passengers depending the configuration chosen. The standard model comes with three rows while the commuter model has four rows.

The first and second rows in both configurations have generous legroom and headroom allowing even taller passengers to stretch out and relax. The third row is a bit cramped but is still adequate for most passengers.

Cabin Storage

There are several storage compartments at the front that are useful for storing items such as smartphones, beverages, goggles, handbags, etc. There are 4 cup holders, door panel storage, a 2 compartment glovebox, and a center box.

Safety Features: SRS Airbags, ABS, VSC, EBD, Child seat anchor points, DRLs, Parking Sensors, Rearview Camera, Hill-start Assist Control.

Exterior

The 2017 Toyota HiAce has a boxy exterior design which is in line with the vehicle’s primary purpose as a commercial van. The front of the 2017 HiAce features a  bold and angular grille, which is flanked by sleek headlights and fog lights.

The side profile of the HiAce is characterized by its long wheelbase and sliding side door, which provides easy access to the interior for passengers and cargo. At the back, the HiAce features large, vertically oriented tail lights and a simple rear bumper.

2017 Toyota HiAce Fuel Consumption

2017 Toyota HiAce 3.0L Diesel Fuel Consumption:  12.5 Km/L (On average)

2017 Toyota HiAce 2.7L Petrol Fuel Consumption:  9.2 Km/L (On average)

2017 Toyota HiAce 2.0L Petrol Fuel Consumption 10.2 Km/L (On Average)

2013 Toyota HiAce Acceleration

2017 Toyota HiAce 3.0L Diesel accelerates from 0-100km/h in 13.2 sec

2017 Toyota HiAce 2.7L Petrol accelerates from 0-100km/h in 12.0 sec

2017 Toyota HiAce 2.0L Petrol accelerates from 0-100km/h in 16.0 sec

2017 Toyota HiAce Fuel Tank Capacity: 70 Litres

2017 Toyota Hiace Ground Clearance

The 2017 Toyota HiAce has a ground clearance of 7.7 Inches(195mm). This is above the minimum recommended clearance of 6.5 Inches for Kenyan roads and it will clear speed bumps without a problem. However, observe the proper loading capacity as the per Owner’s Manual.

2017 Toyota HiAce Stability and Handling

The 2017 Toyota HiAce delivers excellent stability and handling on the road thanks to its suspension system which has been designed to cope with varying loads that the HiAce can carry.

The HiAce power steering system provides precise and responsive handling, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces. Its braking system is also well-designed, providing good stopping power and a reassuring pedal feel.

It is also equipped with a range of safety features, including electronic stability control, anti-lock brakes, and traction control, which help to improve the vehicle’s stability and handling in various driving conditions.

Both the 2-wheel drive and 4-wheel drive versions of the HiAce offer a stable and well-balanced driving experience. The RWD version provides good traction and stability, especially when carrying heavier loads, while the AWD version provides added traction and stability in slippery conditions.

Service Intervals

Minor Service: At 10,000 km. Requires Air Cleaner, Oil Filter, and Engine Oil

Major Service: At 15,000km. Requires Air Cleaner, Oil Filter, Fuel Filter, ATF Filter, Cabin Filter, Plugs, Front Brake Pads, Rear Brake Pads, ATF Oil, and Engine Oil

Spare Parts Availability, Cost & Where to buy

Spare parts for the Toyota HiAce are widely available in Kenya and at reasonable prices. Most spare shops in Industrial Area and Kirinyaga Road stock these parts. You can get listings for these shops in this link

2017 Toyota HiAce Reliability

The 2017 Toyota HiAce is considered by many owners as a reliable workhorse that can withstand the rigors of daily use.

The HiAce is however not immune to problems. Some owners have reported issues with the transmission system such as hard shifting and slipping. Others have reported squeaks and rattles from the transmission system.

Regular maintenance and timely repairs can help prevent these issues and help ensure your Toyota HiAce is in good condition.  We recommend you follow the car’s guidelines as per the Owner’s manual.

Resale Value: Good

Toyota HiAce Competitors: Nissan Caravan

What we like about the 2017 Toyota HiAce

1. Spacious Interior
2. Available in many configurations for various applications
3. Reliable performance

What we don’t

1. Limited safety features
2. Poor fuel economy

Conclusion

The 2017 Toyota HiAce is a dependable vehicle that can be used for a range of activities such as public transport (Matatu), as an ambulance,  transporting cargo and even for adventuring. While it has some limitations, such as its relatively basic interior amenities and unrefined ride quality, The HiAce remains a popular choice among those who prioritize reliability over luxury and comfort.