Toyota is expected to fully redesign the new Hiace and release it around August 2027. The next-generation Hiace will evolve into a global strategic commercial vehicle model with a semi-bonnet.
Toyota has decided to transfer production of the luxury minivans “Alphard” and “Vellfire,” which have been at its Inabe Plant in Inabe City, Mie Prefecture, to Toyota Motor Corporation’s Tahara Plant by the end of 2027.
Overseas, it underwent a full model change and was released as a new generation model on February 18, 2019. The current H200 series was released in August 2004, and this will be the long-awaited full model change in its 23rd year.
The Toyota Hiace is a commercial van that represents Toyota. With its reliability and high loading capacity, it is loved not only in business situations, but also in recent years by users who enjoy outdoor activities and sleeping in their cars. Since its release in 2004, the current 200 series Hiace has continued to evolve without changing its basic design for over 20 years, but the time for a full model change is finally approaching.
The next-generation Hiace will be based on the 300 series, which has already been released overseas, and will be optimized for the Japanese market. Expectations are high for the new Hiace, with features such as improved safety thanks to the semi-bonnet design, improved driving performance thanks to the adoption of the TNGA platform, and a powertrain that is environmentally friendly.
This article will provide a thorough explanation of the latest information on the new Hiace 300 series, covering everything from design, size, fuel economy, price, and release date. This is a must-read for anyone considering purchasing a new Hiace, as well as Hiace fans.
Summary of the new Toyota Hiace 300 series full model change
About the new Hiace 300 series
- Key points of the full model change: semi-bonnet, adoption of TNGA platform
- Benefits of semi-bonnet design: Improved safety, ease of maintenance, and comfort
design
- Exterior: A more refined design based on the overseas 300 series
- Front mask: Sharp headlights, large grille, powerful bonnet lines
Body size (estimated Japanese spec)
- Overall length: Within 5,000mm (based on Alphard/Vellfire)
- Overall width: 1,700mm or less (maintaining the 4-number frame)
- Overall height: Standard roof 2,000mm or less, high roof 2,280mm or so
Interior
- Pursuing spaciousness and ease of use
- The floor is lowered, improving ease of entry and exit and loading and unloading of luggage.
- Versatile seating arrangements (seats up to 17 people)
Engine specs
- 2.0L inline 4-cylinder gasoline engine
- 2.8L inline 4-cylinder clean diesel engine “1GD”
- 3.5L V6 gasoline engine “7GR”
- Transmission: 6-speed automatic
- Possibility of adding PHEV and EV models in the future
fuel economy
- 2.0L gasoline: 10.0km/L
- 2.8L diesel: 13.5km/L
safety equipment
- Latest Toyota Safety Sense
- VSC & TRC (Vehicle Stability Control System & Traction Control System)
- Hill Start Assist Control
- Auto alarm
price
- 2.5 million to 4.4 million yen (estimated)
- A wide range of grades available (diesel, wide body, long body, etc.)
release date
- Around August 2027 (estimated)
About the new Toyota Hiace 300 series full model change
The new Hiace has undergone a complete model change and now features a semi-bonnet design. The previous cab-over model eliminated the engine bay, allowing for more cargo and passenger capacity without increasing overall length. The reason for this change is that Toyota is developing the H300 series as a global strategic commercial vehicle model. With cab-over models, the engine is located above the driver’s seat, making maintenance difficult overseas, but with a semi-bonnet design, maintenance will be easier. Additionally, placing the engine under the driver and passenger seats reduces heat and noise issues. While the lack of a bonnet in the front of a cab-over model increases the risk of a collision, the semi-bonnet design reduces that risk.
The advantages of semi-bonneting are as follows:
- Improved safety : In the event of a collision, the engine compartment acts as an energy-absorbing space, improving passenger safety.
- Improved serviceability : Easier access to the engine bay makes maintenance easier.
- Improved comfort : By moving the engine from under the driver’s seat to the front, noise and vibration are reduced, resulting in a more comfortable ride.
The new Hiace also uses Toyota’s new generation architecture, a newly developed platform called TNGA (Toyota New Global Architecture) . It represents a significant evolution from the previous model , with a lighter weight, a lower center of gravity, and increased body rigidity . All Toyota vehicles that use TNGA offer a higher level of ride comfort and ease of driving than their predecessors.
About the design of the new Toyota Hiace 300 series
The biggest change in the exterior design of the new Hiace is the adoption of a semi-bonnet. This marks a bold change from the conventional cab-over design. The front design is expected to adopt a more refined design based on the new Hiace H300 series already on sale overseas.
GLOBAL HIACE BEV CONCEPT
New Hiace overseas model
The EV model concept “GLOBAL HIACE BEV CONCEPT” unveiled at the Japan Mobility Show 2023 is based on the new overseas model Hiace H300, but has a more sophisticated feel.
Toyota Hiace predicted CG
Toyota New Hiace 300 Series: Predicted Body Size of the Japanese Model
The overseas model 300 series has already been released, but the biggest problem is that even the short version is long, at 5,265 mm in length. The current 200 series has a standard length of 4,695 mm, which is 570 mm longer than the standard, so there may be a lot of resistance from users in the market.
Current Hiace 200 series body size
| Specifications | Hiace H200 series | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Body Type | Short/standard roof | Long/high roof | Super Long |
| full length | 4,695mm | 4,840mm | 5,380mm |
| Overall width | 1,695mm | 1,880mm | 1,880mm |
| Overall height | 1,980mm | 2,105mm | 2,285mm |
| Wheelbase | 2,570mm | 2,570mm | 3,110mm |
Hiace 300 series for overseas markets
| Specifications | New Hiace (overseas) | |
|---|---|---|
| Body Type | Short/standard roof | Long/high roof |
| full length | 5,265mm | 5,915mm |
| Overall width | 1,950mm | 1,950mm |
| Overall height | 1,990mm | 2,280mm |
| Wheelbase | 3,210mm | 3,860mm |
New Hiace Japanese model forecast
For the Japanese model, they would like to keep it within 5,000mm. This is the body size of the Alphard and Vellfire. Therefore, there is a possibility that the body size will be reduced and released as a Japanese model.
| Specifications | New Hiace Japanese model forecast | |
|---|---|---|
| full length | 4,995mm | |
| Overall width | 1,850mm | |
| Overall height | 1,935mm | |
| Wheelbase | 3,000mm | |
| engine | 2.5L inline 4-cylinder direct injection engine D-4S |
2.8L inline 4 clean diesel engine |
| Maximum power | 151kW (205ps) / 6,600rpm |
177ps/ 3,400rpm |
| Maximum torque | 250Nm (25.3kgm) / 5,000rpm |
45.9kgm/ 2400rpm |
| Drive system | 2WD/4WD | |
| WLTC mode fuel economy | 13.5km/L | 10.0km/L |
In the past, the “Corolla” series of cars with a shorter overall length and wheelbase were produced for the Japanese market.
In the Japanese car market, the overall length of vehicles is sometimes shortened. One example is the current Corolla Touring and Corolla (Sedan) models. These models have their overall length shortened when sold in Japan. This is part of a design change to suit the narrowness of Japanese roads and parking spaces, and indicates that there are differences from overseas specifications.
European model Corolla Wagon
The body size of the Japanese-spec Corolla is 4,495mm in length, 1,745mm in width, 1,435mm in height, and 2,640mm in wheelbase. In contrast, the global model is 4,630mm in length, 1,780mm in width, 1,435mm in height, and 2,700mm in wheelbase. The Japanese-spec model is smaller than the overseas model by 135mm in length, 35mm in width, and 60mm in wheelbase.
Japanese model Corolla Touring
Another unique feature of the Corolla is that since it has become the current 3-number model, the strategy has been to sell the previous 5-number model alongside it. As a result, the Corolla Fielder and Corolla Axio remain current models and are still undergoing some improvements.
Corolla Fielder
Following this trend, the author believes that the body size of the Hiace H300 series will likely be revised as a Japanese model, and that the current H200 series will likely continue to be sold.
There is a possibility that the new Hiace 200 series will continue to be sold.
The cab-over design will be replaced with a semi-bonnet design, improving safety performance, but it is unlikely to be accepted immediately. Therefore, like the Corolla Touring and Corolla Fielder, it is likely that the Hiace 300 and 200 series will continue to be sold for a long period of time.
Toyota’s new Hiace is equipped with a 2.8L inline-four clean diesel engine
The new Land Cruiser Prado is powered by a clean diesel engine, incorporating next-generation, highly insulated diesel combustion and a compact, highly efficient turbocharger. The 2.8L inline-four clean diesel engine produces a maximum output of 177ps/3,400rpm and a maximum torque of 45.9kgm/2400rpm, and is mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission.
2.8L inline 4 clean diesel engine D-4D
Toyota Safety Sense (TSS3) standard on all new Toyota Hiace 300 series vehicles
While the new Hiace is used as a company car, it is equipped with the latest collision avoidance support pre-crash safety system. This system includes an intersection detection function, a low-speed acceleration suppression function, and an emergency steering avoidance support function. These functions assist the driver in operation and improve safety.
Pre-crash Safety (PCS) with pedestrian detection function: This system uses millimeter-wave radar and a camera to detect vehicles and pedestrians ahead, and provides warnings, brake assist, and automatic braking to help avoid collisions and mitigate damage. The automatic braking system operates at speeds between 10 and 80 km/h for pedestrians. For example, if the speed difference between the vehicle and the pedestrian is 30 km/h, the system will slow down the vehicle by approximately 30 km/h to help avoid a collision. It also operates at a wide speed range for vehicles, from 10 km/h to the maximum speed. For example, if the vehicle is traveling at 40 km/h toward a stopped vehicle, the system can slow down the vehicle by approximately 40 km/h. It also adds features such as “low-speed acceleration suppression,” “detection of oncoming vehicles and pedestrians when turning right at an intersection,” and ” emergency steering avoidance support.”
- A low-speed acceleration suppression function that detects pedestrians, cyclists, and vehicles directly in front of the vehicle at low speeds and suppresses acceleration.
- It can also detect oncoming vehicles going straight when turning right at an intersection, as well as pedestrians crossing from the opposite direction when turning right or left.
- Emergency steering avoidance support function that assists steering when the driver makes an evasive maneuver in an emergency.
The Road Sign Assist (RSA) has expanded its detection targets, and now also reads major roadside traffic signs such as “speed limit,” “stop sign,” “no entry,” and “no crossing” and displays them on the instrument panel.
The Lane Departure Alert (LDA) camera recognizes the white and yellow lines in the driving lane, and if it detects the possibility of lane departure, it alerts the driver with a buzzer and a visual display, helping to avoid collisions caused by lane departure.
The Automatic High Beam (AHB) camera detects the headlights of oncoming vehicles or the taillights of vehicles ahead and automatically switches between high and low beams, reducing glare for drivers of other vehicles and helping to ensure forward visibility at night.
Radar Cruise Control : This vehicle employs radar cruise control, which uses millimeter-wave radar to detect the distance between vehicles and the vehicle ahead, and adjusts its speed to match the speed of the vehicle ahead within a set speed range, allowing it to maintain a certain distance while following. Millimeter-wave radar and a camera detect lane changes by the vehicle ahead, allowing for smoother acceleration and deceleration control. Toyota aims for the ultimate goal of a mobility society: zero traffic fatalities and injuries. Toyota is researching and developing various safety equipment and systems based on its “Integrated Safety Concept,” striving to “develop safer vehicles and technologies,” and strengthening a wide range of traffic safety initiatives through “participation in traffic environment improvement” and “traffic safety awareness activities for people.”
Lane Tracing Assist (LTA) When driving on a highway or expressway, turning on the Lane Tracing Assist (LTA) switch while the radar cruise control is activated will provide steering assistance necessary to maintain the lane. A curve speed suppression function has been added. Driver Abnormality Response System A function has been added that detects driver abnormalities and contributes to life-saving rescue.
Curve speed control function When radar cruise control is activated, speed control begins when the steering wheel is first turned.
Leading vehicle departure notification function If you are stopped behind a vehicle in front of you at a traffic light or in a traffic jam and do not notice the vehicle in front of you starting to move, a buzzer will sound and a message will appear on the display to notify you.
Advanced Safety
Intelligent Clearance Sonar (Parking Support Brake Stationary) is a system that helps mitigate collisions caused by accidentally pressing the accelerator or pressing it too hard, thereby reducing damage. The “Clearance Sonar” displays and sounds a buzzer when approaching stationary objects while parking, and now has an added function to mitigate contact with stationary objects. The sonar can also accurately detect glass at convenience stores and other locations. When driving at low speeds (below 15km/h), if a stationary object is detected in the direction of travel, the hybrid system output is reduced, and if the distance becomes even shorter, the brakes are automatically applied.
Leading vehicle departure notification function If you are stopped behind a vehicle in front of you at a traffic light or in a traffic jam and do not notice the vehicle in front of you starting to move, a buzzer will sound and a message will appear on the display to notify you.
Emergency brake signal (hazard lights flashing type) When you apply the brakes suddenly, the hazard lights will automatically flash.
Digital inner mirror: Images from a camera mounted on the rear of the vehicle are displayed on the rearview mirror.
Advanced Park Remote function: Operation guidance is provided by the screen display and voice/buzzer sounds, and assistance is provided for reversing into a target parking position confirmed on the screen or for exiting from parallel parking by operating the steering wheel, shift position, accelerator and brake.In addition, a dedicated smartphone app is available, allowing parking to be performed remotely from outside the vehicle.
Toyota’s new Hiace EV
- It is also very quiet when driving and when starting and stopping, so it can be used safely even in residential areas.
- The powerful driving performance that only a motor-driven EV can provide makes it possible to carry heavy loads with ease .
Toyota Auto Body is exhibiting the GLOBAL HIACE BEV CONCEPT at the JAPAN MOBILITY SHOW 2023, which will be held mainly at Tokyo Big Sight from October 26 to November 5, 2023 (open to the public from Saturday, October 28) . Demand for EV vans is high, and it is thought that an EV model of the Hiace will also be considered for the lineup.
GLOBAL HIACE BEV CONCEPT (reference vehicle, world premiere)
The GLOBAL HIACE BEV CONCEPT is a next-generation BEV van that combines advanced design, spaciousness, and ease of use. Overall length: 5,280mm, overall width: 1,950mm, overall height: 1,990mm.
- Consideration for a diverse range of drivers (quietness, ease of getting in and out, minimum turning radius of 5.5m)
- Pursuing ease of use (flat floor, walk-through, special carts for easy movement of luggage)
- The passenger seat area is used as cargo space, and can carry items up to approximately 3.5m long.
- Improving delivery efficiency through connectivity (optimizing delivery routes, displaying the loading position of the next parcel to be delivered)
GLOBAL HIACE BEV CONCEPT
LCV CONCEPT
The new Hiace concept car “LCV CONCEPT” was unveiled for the first time in the world at the 45th Tokyo Motor Show 2017 (Wednesday, October 25th, 2017 – Sunday, November 5th, 2017). This will likely be the concept model for the new Hiace.
LCV CONCEPT
While maintaining the cargo space and load capacity required for a light commercial van, the powerful driving performance of a motor-driven EV makes it possible to easily transport heavy loads.The vehicle is also quiet when driving, starting, and stopping, making it safe to use in residential areas, including early mornings and late nights, and other major benefits of being an EV.
Recommended articles related to the Hiace
About the new Hiace overseas model full model change
On February 18, 2019, Toyota announced a full model change for the new Hiace overseas model. This new model uses a new dedicated platform based on TNGA and also features a semi-bonnet design. This has resulted in a best-in-class level of safety equivalent to Euro NCAP 5. Furthermore, basic performance and comfort have also been significantly improved.
New Hiace overseas model
On May 21, 2019, Toyota unveiled the new Granvia (Grand Hiace) in Taiwan, based on the Hiace. This model is available in 6-seater and 9-seater models with captain seats. Features include a new, dedicated platform based on TNGA and a semi-bonnet design. The exterior features large bumpers and a large grille with a chrome-plated horizontal line design, LED bi-beam headlights, chrome-plated horizontal line design at the front, large 17-inch aluminum wheels, and double L-shaped LED taillights.
Toyota Granvia (Grand Hiace)
Toyota announced the new Majesty, based on the Hiace, in Thailand on August 16, 2019 (local time). The model was announced as the GranAce on November 25, 2019, and released on December 16.
New Hiace full model change overseas model specifications
| Specifications | New Hiace (overseas) | |
|---|---|---|
| Body Type | Short/standard roof | Long/high roof |
| full length | 5,265mm | 5,915mm |
| Overall width | 1,950mm | 1,950mm |
| Overall height | 1,990mm | 2,280mm |
| Wheelbase | 3,210mm | 3,860mm |
| Specifications | New Granvia/ Grand Hiace (overseas) |
|---|---|
| full length | 5,300mm |
| Overall width | 1,970mm |
| Overall height | 1,990mm |
| Wheelbase | 3,210mm |
The new “Hiace (for overseas markets)” and the new “Granvia/Grand Hiace (for overseas markets)” both use the 1GD-FTV 2.8 L diesel engine and the 7GR 3.5 L gasoline engine. The Japanese models have the same base, but the body size differs to take into account the Japanese road environment.
| Specifications | 2.8L inline 4 clean diesel engine |
|---|---|
| Maximum power | 177ps/3,400rpm |
| Maximum torque | 45.9kgm/2400rpm |
| transmission | 6AT/6MT |
Sales volume of the new Hiace
Sales volume in 2024
In 2023, the number was 11,102 , but in 2024 it was 7,087 . As the model is nearing the end of its life, the number of units sold appears to be gradually decreasing.
| year and month | Hiace sales volume |
|---|---|
| January 2024 | 952 units |
| February 2024 | 617 units |
| March 2024 | 678 units |
| April 2024 | 822 units |
| May 2024 | 775 units |
| June 2024 | 826 units |
| July 2024 | 856 units |
| August 2024 | 629 units |
| September 2024 | 457 units |
| October 2024 | 292 units |
| November 2024 | 114 units |
| December 2024 | 69 units |
| total | 7,087 units |
Toyota Hiace registration numbers Source: Japan Automobile Dealers Association
What is the delivery time for the new Hiace?
After the full model change in 2025, attention will likely increase on the new model, which could result in longer delivery times.
[February 2025] New “Hiace” delivery information
Delivery time is approximately 4 to 8 months
New Hiace dealer announcement
According to Toyota’s official website, as of February 23, 2025, the estimated factory shipping dates for the Hiace are as follows:
- Gasoline Long Standard Body Please contact your nearest store
- Gasoline Long Widebody Vehicle Delivery Schedule Please contact your nearest store
- Gasoline Super Long Vehicle Delivery Schedule Please contact your nearest store
- Diesel 2WD Long Standard Body Delivery Schedule Please contact your local store
- Diesel Long Widebody Vehicle Delivery Schedule Please contact your local store
- Diesel Super Long Vehicle Delivery Schedule Please contact your nearest store
This is only a guideline, and delivery times may vary depending on the grade, options, dealer, and region.
About Hiace
- On August 23, 2004, the fifth-generation H200 series underwent a full model change for the first time in 15 years. The following models were available:
long, standard body width, standard roof (Van DX, Super GL),
long, standard body width, high roof (Van DX)
, long, wide body, middle roof (Wagon DX),
super long, wide body, high roof
(Van DX, Wagon Grand Cabin, Commuter DX, Commuter GL, camper-based vehicle). - The Super Long Wide Body High Roof was released in January 2005.
- The first minor change was made on August 20, 2007.
- The second minor change was made on July 26, 2010.
- The third minor change was made on November 27, 2013.
- September 29, 2015: Received the 2015 Good Design Long Life Design Award.
- Partial improvements were announced on June 1, 2016. The wagon and commuter models now come standard with VSC & TRC, hill start assist control, and emergency brake signals, and all models are equipped with an accessory socket (DC12V, 120W) as standard.
- Partial improvements were announced on November 22, 2017, and sales began on December 1st, with the collision avoidance support package “Toyota Safety Sense P” now coming as standard equipment.
- On August 6, 2018, the special edition vehicles “Super GL “DARK PRIME II”” and “Super GL “50TH ANNIVERSARY LIMITED”” were released.
- A partial improvement was announced on April 17, 2020, and released on May 1. A digital inner mirror is now available on all vehicles, a panoramic view monitor on automatic transmission vehicles, and intelligent clearance sonar (parking support brake for stationary objects) on automatic transmission vehicles equipped with Toyota Safety Sense, all as options. The Optitron meter now features a 4.2-inch TFT color multi-information display.
- A partial improvement was announced on April 21, 2021, and released on August 2. The 5MT model available for the van has been discontinued, and all vehicles are now equipped with an automatic transmission. The body colors “Bordeaux Mica Metallic” and “Gray Metallic” have also been discontinued.
- Partially improved on April 13, 2022. Parking support brake [front and rear obstacles] is standard equipment on all vehicles.
- January 10, 2024: Partially improved along with the Toyota Ambulance. The Super GL van will have an Earth Color Package.
A word from the editorial department
The current fifth-generation Hiace, the H200 series, is a long-selling model that will celebrate its 20th anniversary in 2024. When it comes to Japanese vans, the Hiace is a special vehicle that is loved by a wide range of people, from business to personal use.
Toyota may also be considering a full model change, but if safety is a priority, it would be difficult to switch from a cab-over type to a semi-bonnet type. The cab-over type allows for a shorter overall length while preserving engine room space, allowing for more luggage and passenger capacity. The reason for adopting a semi-bonnet type without losing the major advantages of the Hiace is that Toyota is developing the H300 series as a global strategic commercial vehicle model.
The cab-over type has the driver’s seat above the engine, which makes maintenance difficult overseas, but the semi-bonnet type makes maintenance easier. Also, the engine is located under the driver’s seat and passenger seat, which reduces heat and noise issues. The cab-over type does not have a bonnet in the front, which could affect safety in the event of a collision. The H300 series is already on sale overseas, and it seems likely that both will be sold together in Japan.
The full model change for the 21st anniversary will surely excite Hiace fans all over Japan.
We will let you know as soon as new information becomes available.
Toyota News Release
https://www.toyota-body.co.jp/ps/qn/usr/db/d_file5-0001-0411.pdf
https://www.toyota-body.co.jp/tms2017/
https://www.toyota-body.co.jp/
Hiace
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