[2026 Latest Edition] Toyota Hiace vs Nissan Caravan: A Comprehensive Comparison! Which Should You Choose?

The Toyota Hiace and Nissan Caravan have been competing fiercely in the commercial van and wagon market for many years. In 2026, the Hiace underwent a major facelift, evolving into the 9th generation. Meanwhile, the Caravan also underwent some improvements in 2025, further enhancing its competitiveness. In this article, we’ll thoroughly compare the latest information on both vehicles and provide detailed guidance on choosing the best one for your business and lifestyle.

1. Overview of the latest 2026 model

Major changes to the Toyota Hiace (9th generation)

The Hiace 9th generation, which will be officially announced on January 13, 2026 and production will begin on February 2, has undergone the following significant evolutions:

Main update contents:

Obsolete specifications:

• Special edition “Dark Prime S” (20th anniversary model of the 200 series)
• Lifted van, 4-door

Major changes to the Nissan Caravan (2025 model)

The Caravan, which underwent some improvements at the end of August 2025, was equipped with the following features ahead of the Hiace.

Main update contents:

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2. Price comparison: Which is better value for money?

Price of the Toyota Hiace 9th Generation (2026 model)

Price increase range: 394,000 yen to 473,000 yen

With the transition to the 9th generation, the latest safety and comfort equipment has become standard, resulting in a significant price increase. In particular, the popular special edition “Dark Prime 2” has seen a price increase of approximately 470,000 yen.

Price of the Nissan Caravan (2025 model)

Price comparison summary

Comparing popular grades with similar specifications (diesel turbo, 4WD):

• Hiace Super GL Dark Prime 2 (4WD) : 4,683,800 yen
• Caravan Premium GX (4WD) : 4,583,700 yen

Price difference: Approximately 100,000 yen (Caravan is cheaper)

The price difference for the 2WD model is about 270,000 yen, so the Caravan wins in terms of initial purchase cost . However, when considering resale value, the Hiace may be more advantageous in terms of total cost.

3. Exterior design comparison

Toyota Hiace 9th generation

Design Features:

• Newly designed Bi-Beam LED headlights give the car a more advanced look.
• The Panoramic View Monitor is now standard equipment, eliminating the front under-mirror (guts mirror).
• Improved aerodynamic performance and reduced wind noise
• New Platinum White Pearl Mica (replacing White Pearl Crystal Shine)
• The powerful and imposing front mask remains intact

Body color:

• Platinum White Pearl Mica (new color)
• Midnight Black
• Dark Blue Mica Metallic (discontinued)
• Luxury Pearl Toning 2 (New)

Nissan Caravan (2025 model)

Design Features:

• Dynamic and powerful front face
• Scratch-shield coating prevents minor scratches when washing the car
• The “Outdoor Black Edition” features black front grille, bumper, door mirrors, etc.
• Proportions that realize the longest luggage space in its class (fits items up to 10 feet long)
• Professional-looking design

Body color:

• Deep Forest (special paint color, most popular)
• Deep Ocean Blue (special paint color)
• Midnight Black (special paint color)

Design comparison summary

• Hiace : A more modern and advanced image. The new LED headlights add a bolder look.
• Caravan : A powerful and imposing commercial vehicle. Highly practical thanks to its scratch-shield paint.

Design is a matter of personal preference, but the Hiace gives off a more sophisticated, urban impression , while the Caravan gives off a tough, reliable, professional impression .

4. Body size and interior space comparison

External dimensions comparison (standard body/long body)

	Hiace (Super GL)	Caravan (Premium GX)
full length	4,695mm	4,695mm
Overall width	1,695mm	1,695mm
Overall height	1,980mm	1,990mm
Wheelbase	2,570mm	2,555mm
Vehicle weight	1,930 kg	2,000kg
Minimum turning radius	5.0m	5.2m

Interior size comparison

	Hiace	caravan
Indoor chief	3,000mm	3,050mm
Luggage length (with two passengers)	1,855mm	1,860mm
Indoor width	1,520mm	1,520mm
Interior height	1,320mm	1,325mm

Body Variations

Hiace:

• Long / Super Long
• Standard roof / Middle roof / High roof
• Standard width/wide
• A wide variety of combinations are possible

caravan:

• Long / Super Long
• Standard roof / High roof
• Standard width/wide
• Van / Wagon / Microbus

Size comparison summary

• The interior length of the Caravan is 50 mm longer (approximately 5 cm): advantageous when loading 10 shaku mono (approximately 3 m)
• The minimum turning radius of the Hiace is 0.2m smaller : the Hiace has an advantage when maneuvering in narrow alleys and parking lots.
• The interior width and height are almost the same : there is almost no practical difference

If you prioritize loading capacity, choose the Caravan, and if you prioritize maneuverability, choose the Hiace.

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5. Engine performance and powertrain comparison

Toyota Hiace 9th generation

Engine lineup:

2.8L inline 4-cylinder diesel turbo “1GD-FTV”

• Maximum output: 151ps (111kW) / 3,600rpm
• Maximum torque: 30.6 kgm (300 Nm) / 1,000-3,400 rpm
• Features: Next-generation highly insulated diesel combustion, high-efficiency turbocharger, urea SCR system

2.7L inline 4-cylinder gasoline engine

• Maximum output: 160ps (118kW)
• Maximum torque: 24.8 kgm (243 Nm)

2.0L inline 4-cylinder gasoline engine

• Maximum output: 136ps (100kW)
• Maximum torque: 18.6 kgm (182 Nm)

**Transmission:**6-speed AT (all vehicles)

**Drive system:**FR/4WD

Nissan Caravan (2025 model)

Engine lineup:

2.5L inline 4-cylinder diesel turbo “YD25DDTi”

• Maximum output: 147ps (108kW)
• Maximum torque: 37.7 kgm (370 Nm)
• Features: Maximum torque is 7.1 kgm greater than that of the Hiace

2.5L inline 4-cylinder gasoline engine

• Maximum output: 147hp
• Maximum torque: 21.7 kgm

2.0L inline 4-cylinder gasoline engine

• Maximum output: 130ps (96kW)
• Maximum torque: 18.1 kgm (178 Nm)

**Transmission:**7-speed AT (diesel) / 5-speed AT (gasoline)

**Drive system:**FR / 4WD

Engine performance comparison summary

Diesel engine:

• Maximum output : Hiace 151ps vs Caravan 147ps (Hiace is 4ps higher)
• Maximum torque : Hiace 30.6 kgm vs Caravan 37.7 kgm ( Caravan is 7.1 kgm higher )

Key Takeaways:

• The Caravan diesel has a maximum torque that is approximately 23% greater : it is excellent for acceleration when carrying heavy loads and for driving on slopes.
• The Hiace diesel is an output type : it has excellent response under light loads and high-speed driving performance.
• The Caravan uses a 7-speed automatic transmission : finer gear ratio settings achieve both fuel efficiency and driving performance

If you prioritize loading capacity, choose the Caravan, and if you prioritize response, choose the Hiace.

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6. Fuel efficiency comparison

Toyota Hiace 9th generation (WLTC mode)

2.8L turbo diesel:

• 12.5km/L (up to 1.2km/L improvement from the 8th generation)

2.7L gasoline:

• 8.8-9.2km/L

2.0L gasoline:

• 9.3km/L

Nissan Caravan (2025 model, WLTC mode)

2.5L turbo diesel:

• 11.3 to 12.0 km/L

2.5L gasoline:

• 8.4-8.5km/L

2.0L gasoline:

• 8.8-8.9km/L

Fuel efficiency comparison summary

Diesel models:

• Hiace: 12.5km/L
• Caravan: 11.3 to 12.0 km/L
• Difference: 0.5-1.2km/L (Hiace has a slight advantage)

Gasoline models:

• Almost the same fuel economy

Considerations based on actual fuel consumption:

• The 2022 upgrade for the Hiace will revise diesel vehicle control and improve fuel efficiency
• The Caravan’s seven-speed automatic transmission improves practical fuel economy
• If you drive a lot each year, the fuel economy advantage of the Hiace will become a cost benefit.

Example: If you drive 20,000 km per year and diesel costs 170 yen/L

• Hiace (12.5km/L): Annual fuel cost: approx. 272,000 yen
• Caravan (11.5km/L): Annual fuel cost: approximately 296,000 yen
• The difference is about 24,000 yen per year (about 120,000 yen over 5 years)

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7. Comparison of safety equipment and advanced technology

Toyota Hiace 9th generation

Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 (standard equipment on all vehicles)

• Pre-crash Safety (PCS) :
  
  • Bicycle rider (nighttime) detection
  • Motorcycle (daytime) detection
  • Detecting cyclists crossing the street when turning right or left at an intersection
  • Detecting vehicles and motorcycles entering intersections
• All-speed adaptive cruise control (ACC) :
  
  • With stop hold function
  • Stable acceleration/deceleration control from empty to fully loaded
• Lane Departure Alert (LDA) : Lane departure warning
• Road Sign Assist (RSA) : Road sign recognition function
• Delayed departure notification function (TMN) : Notification of delayed departure from preceding vehicle or traffic light
• Automatic High Beam (AHB)
• Parking support brake (for front and rear stationary objects) : Standard equipment on all vehicles

Other safety equipment:

• Panoramic View Monitor : Standard equipment on all vehicles (less option available)
• 7-inch TFT LCD meter : Improved visibility
• Digital inner mirror : Manufacturer option
• Intelligent Clearance Sonar : Manufacturer option

Nissan Caravan (2025 model)

Intelligent Safety (Safety Shield)

• Intelligent Emergency Braking :
  
  • Detecting vehicles and pedestrians ahead
  • Automatic braking function
• Intelligent Cruise Control (Gasoline models):
  
  • Early adoption in the commercial van class
  • Stable acceleration/deceleration control from empty to fully loaded
  • Dramatically reduces driver fatigue
• Preceding vehicle departure notification function
• Comfort flasher : Lane change support
• Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
• LDW (Lane Departure Warning)
• Intelligent Around View Monitor : Optional

Other safety equipment:

• Compatible with 9-inch navigation : large screen with high visibility
• Spinal support seat : Low-resilience cushioning reduces fatigue

Safety equipment comparison summary

8. Interior and comfort equipment comparison

Toyota Hiace 9th generation

Main interior equipment:

• 7-inch TFT LCD center meter : Standard equipment on all vehicles (renewed from the Petittron meter)
• 8-inch display audio : Standard equipment on all vehicles
  
  • T-Connect compatible
  • HDMI input terminal included as standard
  • Smartphone connectivity
• Heated front seats : Standard on Super GL (with Hi-Lo switching function)
• Free-stop back door : Standard equipment on standard roof vehicles (can be held at any angle)
• HDMI Cable : New Settings
• TZ multi-function film : Dealer option

Seat configuration:

• 2-seater / 5-seater / 3-seater / 6-seater / 10-seater / 14-seater
• A variety of layouts available to suit your needs

Special equipment for the special edition “Dark Prime 2”:

• Synthetic leather-wrapped steering wheel
• Dark plating decoration
• Dedicated seat covering
• LED room lamp

Nissan Caravan (2025 model)

Main interior equipment:

• 9-inch navigation compatible navigation finisher : Large screen for improved visibility
• Intelligent Around View Monitor compatible
• Seats with spinal support function (driver’s seat and passenger seat):
  
  • Low-resilience cushioning material
  • Excellent vibration absorption makes it less tiring to drive for long periods of time
• Intelligent Cruise Control : Greatly reduces driver fatigue
• Preceding vehicle departure notification function
• Comfort Flasher

Seat configuration:

• 3-seater / 5-seater / 10-seater / 14-seater
• Business shuttle vehicle “Fine Tech Tourer” specification also available

Premium GX exclusive equipment:

• High-quality interior finish
• LED fog lights
• Chrome plating decoration

AUTECH / AUTECH LINE:

• Exclusive exterior and interior
• High-quality leather seats (AUTECH)
• Dedicated steering wheel

Interior comparison summary

9. Load capacity and functionality comparison

Toyota Hiace

Luggage space dimensions (Super GL, long standard roof):

• Luggage length (with two passengers): 1,855 mm
• Luggage width: 1,520mm
• Luggage height: 1,320mm
• Luggage capacity : approx. 3.7 m3

Loading characteristics:

• A wide variety of body variations : long/super long, standard/mid-length/high roof, standard width/wide width
• Flat load floor : Easy loading and unloading
• Large opening back door : Easy loading of large luggage
• Free-stop back door : Easy to open and close even in tight spaces
• MRT (Multi-role Transporter) :
  
  • New side table for bed kit
  • Dividable bed kit structure
  • LED Cargo Light
  • Auxiliary battery compatible

Maximum load capacity:

• Van: 500kg to 1,250kg (varies depending on grade)

Nissan Caravan

Luggage space dimensions (Premium GX, long standard roof):

• Luggage length (with two passengers): 1,860 mm ( 5 mm longer than the Hiace )
• Luggage width: 1,520mm
• Luggage height: 1,325mm
• The longest in its class : 3,050mm (interior length) and can carry items up to 10 shaku (approximately 3m) in length

Loading characteristics:

• The longest cargo space in its class : Can carry building materials and long items up to 10 feet long
• Large-opening sliding door : Easy loading and unloading from the side
• Flat floor : High loading efficiency
• Multi-bed :
  
  • Suitable for car camping and camping
  • Full-flat seat
  • Optional comfort equipment available
• Transporter Specifications :
  
  • Ideal for carrying bikes and leisure equipment
  • Equipped with fixing hooks and rails

Maximum load capacity:

• Van: 500kg to 1,200kg (varies depending on grade)

Loading capacity comparison summary

Advantages of the Hiace:

• Wide range of body variations : Allows for detailed selection according to application
• Free-stop back door : Improved workability in tight spaces
• MRT Series : Specifications optimized for camping and transport

Caravan advantages:

• The longest luggage compartment in its class : interior length 3,050mm (50mm longer)
• Can carry 10-foot items : advantageous for the construction and transportation industries
• Luggage compartment height is 5mm higher : more room for vertical loading

comprehensive evaluation:

• Caravan for transporting long items
• Hiace for versatile use and expandability
• Maximum load capacity is the same

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10. Resale value and maintenance cost comparison

Resale Value

Toyota Hiace:

• Overwhelmingly high resale value
• High demand in the used car market
• Strong demand for overseas exports
• Residual value after 3 years: Approximately 60-70% (varies depending on grade and specifications)
• Diesel models are particularly popular
• Special edition car “Dark Prime 2” remains at a high price

Nissan Caravan:

• Resale value second only to the Hiace
• High reliability as a commercial vehicle
• Residual value after 3 years: Approximately 50-60% (varies depending on grade and specifications)
• Special edition vehicles such as AUTECH are relatively expensive
• Demand for diesel models remains stable

Example of resale value difference (new car purchase price: 4.5 million yen):

• Hiace (residual value rate 65%): Approximately 2,925,000 yen after 3 years
• Caravan (residual value rate 55%): Approximately 2,475,000 yen after 3 years
• Difference: Approximately 450,000 yen

Maintenance cost comparison

Fuel costs (20,000 km per year, diesel/diesel 170 yen/L):

• Hiace (12.5km/L): Approx. 272,000 yen/year
• Caravan (11.5km/L): Approximately 296,000 yen/year
• Difference: Approximately 24,000 yen/year (approximately 120,000 yen over 5 years)

Automobile tax (number 1):

• Same for both cars: 16,000 yen/year

Vehicle inspection fee:

• Commercial vehicles (number 1) must undergo annual vehicle inspection.
• The base cost is roughly the same for both cars.
• Diesel vehicles require urea water (AdBlue) replenishment
  
  • Hiace: Increased AdBlue tank capacity (2022 improvement) for improved convenience
  • Caravan: Standard capacity

Maintenance costs:

• Both vehicles are highly reliable as commercial vehicles.
• Toyota dealer network is more extensive
• Nissan dealers are also expanding nationwide
• Parts supply is stable for both

Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) Comparison Example

5 years and 100,000 km (diesel, 4WD):

Hiace Super GL Dark Prime II (4.68 million yen):

• Purchase price: 4.68 million yen
• Trade-in after 5 years: Approximately 3.04 million yen (residual value rate 65%)
• Fuel costs (5 years): Approximately 1.36 million yen
• Vehicle inspection, tax, insurance, etc.: Approximately 800,000 yen
• Actual cost (5 years): Approximately 3.8 million yen

Caravan Premium GX (4.58 million yen):

• Purchase price: 4.58 million yen
• Trade-in after 5 years: Approximately 2.52 million yen (residual value rate 55%)
• Fuel costs (5 years): Approximately 1.48 million yen
• Vehicle inspection, tax, insurance, etc.: Approximately 800,000 yen
• Actual cost (5 years): Approximately 4.34 million yen

Difference: Approximately 540,000 yen (Hiace is more advantageous)

Summary of resale value and maintenance costs

• The initial purchase cost of the Caravan is about 100,000 yen cheaper
• The Hiace has a resale value advantage of about 450,000 yen (after 3 years)
• The Hiace is about 24,000 yen cheaper in fuel costs per year
• In terms of total ownership costs (over 5 years), the Hiace is about 540,000 yen cheaper.

Conclusion: If you are looking for a long-term rental, the Hiace is economical. If you are looking for a short-term rental and are concerned about initial costs, the Caravan is the better choice.

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11. Recommended points for each purpose

Business/Commercial Use

Recommended for delivery and transportation businesses:

• caravan :
  
  • The longest luggage space in its class (accommodates items up to 10 feet long)
  • Maximum torque of 370Nm provides power even when carrying heavy loads
  • Reduced initial costs
• Hiace :
  
  • A wide variety of body variations
  • High resale value
  • Nationwide dealer network

Recommended for construction and building:

• caravan :
  
  • Long building materials can be loaded (up to 10 shaku)
  • Large maximum torque and strong against heavy loads
• Hiace :
  
  • MRT specifications for convenient organization of tools and equipment
  • The free-stop back door makes it easy to work in tight spaces

Recommended for transfers and passengers:

• Hiace :
  
  • Excellent ride comfort and quietness
  • Available in 10-seater “Grand Cabin” and 14-seater “Commuter” models
  • Full of comfortable features such as a digital inner mirror
• caravan :
  
  • Spinal support seat for improved comfort
  • Intelligent cruise control makes long-distance driving easy
  • 14-seater “microbus” version available

Leisure and private use

Recommended for camper vans:

• Hiace :
  
  • The MRT series is a full-fledged camping specification
  • Highly expandable with bed kit, auxiliary battery, etc.
  • Plenty of custom parts
  • High resale value
• caravan :
  
  • “MYROOM” series is ideal for sleeping in your car
  • The room is long and comfortable
  • 100V power supply (optional) allows you to use home appliances

Recommended for transporters (motorcycles and bicycles):

• Hiace :
  
  • MRT transporter specifications
  • Fully customizable with Modellista parts
  • Plenty of anchor points for fixing
• caravan :
  
  • Transporter-specific specifications available
  • The long luggage compartment is large enough to accommodate large motorcycles.
  • Equipped with fixing hooks and rails

Recommended for family use:

• Hiace :
  
  • A comfortable travel space in the GL wagon
  • Versatile seat arrangements
  • High safety with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0
• caravan :
  
  • Spacious interior of the wagon “GX”
  • Spinal support seat for long-term comfort
  • 9-inch navigation system for high entertainment value

Recommended for outdoor activities and hobbies

Surfing and marine sports:

• Hiace :
  
  • The MRT series is safe for wet luggage
  • Waterproof floor mat compatible
  • Shower facilities can also be added later
• caravan :
  
  • Stylish Outdoor Black Edition
  • The long cargo area is large enough to accommodate a longboard.

Camping and Outdoors:

• Hiace :
  
  • Sleep comfortably in the car with the MRT bed kit
  • Auxiliary battery allows you to use electrical appliances
  • LED cargo light for bright nighttime visibility
• caravan :
  
  • Experience “going out with your whole room” with the MYROOM series
  • 100V power supply (optional) allows you to use home appliances
  • Fully flat seats for comfortable sleeping

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12. Summary: Which one should you choose?

Who should choose the Toyota Hiace 9th generation?

Recommended for:

✅Focus on long-term ownership and resale value

• I plan to hold for the long term, over 5 years
• Focus on trade-in price when selling
• Want to reduce total cost of ownership

✅Emphasis on advanced safety and comfort equipment

• I want the comprehensive safety features of Toyota Safety Sense 3.0
• Panoramic view monitor is standard equipment
• Emphasis on convenient features such as a free-stop back door

✅ Emphasis on customization and extensibility

• I want to fully customize my camper or transporter.
• I want to create a comfortable car camping environment with the MRT series
• Choose from a wide range of aftermarket parts

✅Fuel efficiency and running costs

• High annual mileage (over 20,000 km)
• Emphasis on economy with diesel fuel economy of 12.5km/L
• Want to reduce long-term running costs?

✅Easy to handle and drive

• A minimum turning radius of 5.0m makes it easy to maneuver in narrow alleys and parking lots.
• Often used in urban areas
• Prioritizing ease of driving

The Hiace’s defining strengths:

• Overwhelming resale value
• The advanced features of Toyota Safety Sense 3.0
• Abundant custom parts and MRT series
• Excellent fuel economy
• Nationwide dealer network

Who should choose the Nissan Caravan?

Recommended for:

✅Focus on initial costs and price

• Want to reduce initial purchase costs
• You can purchase it for about 100,000 yen cheaper with the same specs.
• I’m thinking about replacing it in the short term

✅Emphasis on loading capacity and cargo space length

• Frequently loads long items up to 10 shaku (approximately 3 m)
• The longest luggage compartment length in its class, 3,050mm, is required.
• Handling long materials in the construction and transportation industries

✅Emphasis on power and torque

• It needs a powerful maximum torque of 370Nm.
• Frequent heavy loads
• Emphasis on drivability on slopes and rough roads

✅Comfort and seating

• The comfort of the seat with spinal support function is appealing.
• Emphasis on reducing fatigue during long-distance driving
• Prioritizing ride comfort with low-resilience cushioning

✅ I want to experience advanced equipment as soon as possible

• As of 2025, intelligent cruise control will already be installed.
• Tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) is standard equipment
• The large 9-inch navigation screen is attractive

Caravan’s defining strengths:

• The longest luggage space in its class (accommodates 10 shaku)
• Powerful driving with maximum torque of 370Nm
• Initial costs are approximately 100,000 yen cheaper
• Spinal support seat comfort
• ACC will be available from 2025

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The bottom line: which is the best choice for you?

[Long-term ownership and comprehensive strength] → Toyota Hiace 9th generation

reason:

• High resale value means a difference of about 450,000 yen after 5 years
• Good fuel economy saves approximately 120,000 yen over five years
• Approximately 540,000 yen advantage in total ownership cost
• Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 advanced safety features
• Abundant custom parts and expandability of the MRT series

Best Grade:

• Super GL Dark Prime 2 (2.8L diesel, 4WD) : 4,683,800 yen
• The perfect balance of comprehensive equipment, high resale value, and excellent fuel economy

If you prioritize initial costs and load capacity, then go for the Nissan Caravan.

reason:

• Initial purchase cost is approximately 100,000 yen cheaper
• The longest luggage compartment in its class, capable of carrying items up to 10 feet in length
• Maximum torque of 370Nm makes it strong enough to handle heavy loads
• Spinal support seat for high comfort
• Already equipped with intelligent cruise control

Best Grade:

• Premium GX (2.5L diesel, 4WD) : 4,583,700 yen
• The best balance of comfort and load capacity, and initial costs are kept low.

Points to check before purchasing

Things to check before choosing a car

summary

What did you think of the 2026 latest comparison between the Toyota Hiace and Nissan Caravan?

Both are excellent commercial vans, and you can’t go wrong with either one, but the best choice will depend on your intended use, how long you plan to own it, and your budget.

The basic choice is the Hiace if you are prioritizing long-term ownership and overall performance, and the Caravan if you are prioritizing initial costs and loading capacity , but we encourage you to actually test drive at a dealer to find the vehicle that best suits your needs.

Whichever you choose, it will be a powerful partner for you in both business and personal life.

Related articles:

• Toyota Hiace 2026 minor change details
• Detailed explanation of the 2025 Nissan Caravan model
• The appeal of the Hiace MRT series
• Caravan MYROOM details

Reference information source:

• Toyota official website
• Nissan official website