2018 Toyota HiAce Review

The Toyota HiAce has been in production for six generations since from 1967 to present . 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 2018 Toyota HiAce is offered 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

2018 Toyota HiAce Grades

1. 2018 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. 2018 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.  2018 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 2018 Toyota HiAce offers ample interior space and legroom for both passengers and cargo. It is available in a range of configurations, each offering a unique combination of space and seating capacity.

The front seats have generous legroom and headroom, making them comfortable for taller drivers and passengers. The driver’s seat is also adjustable, allowing for a customizable driving position. The second and third rows also have ample legroom and headroom making them comfortable even during long-distance drives.

The 2018 Toyota HiAce model also spares you from the agony of last-row seats, which many people find to be a ‘nightmare’, there is less legroom than in the other rows however, if you’re not too tall you still feel good thanks to pleasant seat cushions.

Cabin Storage

There are several storage compartments in the 2018 Toyota HiAce 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, overhead storage and a center-box.

Safety Features: SRS Airbags, EBD, vehicle stability control (VSC),ABS, Retractable steering on impact, WIL(Whiplash Injury Lessening), hill-start assist system Rearview Camera

Exterior

The 2018 Toyota HiAce has a stylish boxy exterior design that is sure to turn head on the road. The front of the 2018 HiAce is dominated by its large, imposing grille, which is framed by sharp, angular headlights that exude a confident and assertive look. The front bumper is reshaped to add its modern and sleek look.

The 2018 HiAce has a dynamic and contemporary side profile, with bold lines and angular creases that give it a dominating presence on the road.

The HiAce’s back is equally striking because of its sleek design and taillights that wrap around the van’s side to give it a uniform and seamless appearance.

2018 Toyota HiAce Fuel Consumption

2018 Toyota HiAce 3.0L Diesel Fuel Consumption:  12.8 Km/L (On average)

2018 Toyota HiAce 2.7L Petrol Fuel Consumption: 10.2 Km/L (On average)

2018 Toyota HiAce 2.0L Petrol Fuel Consumption:  10.7 Km/5 (On average)

2018 Toyota HiAce Acceleration

2018 Toyota HiAce 3.0L Diesel accelerates from 0-100km/h in 13.0 sec

2018 Toyota HiAce 2.7L Petrol accelerates from 0-100km/h in 11.8 sec

2018 Toyota HiAce 2.0L Petrol accelerates from 0-100km/h in 15.0 sec

2018 Toyota HiAce Fuel Tank Capacity: 70 Litres

2018 Toyota HiAce Ground Clearance

The 2018 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.

2018 Toyota HiAce Stability and Handling

The 2018 Toyota HiAce offers an impressive and stable ride thanks to its advanced suspension and braking system. It features an upgraded suspension system that provides a more stable and comfortable ride. The front suspension system now uses a MacPherson strut design, which offers improved handling and stability, especially during cornering and sudden maneuvers.

The 2018 HiAce comes standard with anti-lock braking system (ABS), electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD), and brake assist (BA), which provide better control and stability during emergency braking situations. These advanced braking technologies were also available in the 2017 model, but their implementation in the 2018 HiAce has been improved for better performance.

The HiAce’s ESC technology is also a key contributor to its superior stability and handling. The system monitors the van’s movement and adjusts the engine power and brake pressure to maintain stability during cornering and emergency maneuvers.

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

2018 Toyota HiAce Reliability

Toyota has a legendary reputation of producing reliable vehicles and the 2018 Toyota HiAce is no exception. It is capable of providing you years of sterling service.

But like any car, the 2018 Toyota HiAce could eventually develop problems, especially if it hasn’t been maintained properly. The fuel system, the transmission, and the electrical system are a few potential problems that HiAce owners might encounter.

Regular maintenance and good care can prevent problems from developing. It’s important to have any issues diagnosed and repaired by a qualified mechanic to ensure the safety and reliability of the vehicle. We also recommend you to follow the car’s guidelines as per the Owner’s manual.

Resale Value: Good

Toyota HiAce Competitors: Nissan Caravan

What we like about the 2018 Toyota HiAce

• Reliability
• Available in many configurations
• Spacious interior

What we don’t

• Limited safety features

• Old-school interior scheme

Conclusion

The 2018 Toyota HiAce has a longstanding reputation for competence and holding its value well. It also offers a range of features and benefits, making it a smart choice for anyone in the market for a light commercial vehicle or a family van. If you’re after a versatile and dependable van that offers value for our money, the 2018 Toyota HiAce is a great choice.