Toyota Hiace GL

The Toyota Hiace GL is a versatile and reliable van that has been popular for its spacious interior, advanced technology, and durable build. The 2024 model features a sleek exterior design with a bold front grill and streamlined profile, enhancing its aerodynamics and fuel efficiency. Inside, the Hiace GL offers a comfortable and spacious cabin with premium materials, ergonomic design, and advanced tech features like a user-friendly infotainment system and essential safety features such as blind spot monitoring and rear cross traffic alert. The van is powered by a 2.8-liter diesel engine, known for its reliability and decent fuel economy. It can accommodate up to 10 people comfortably, depending on the configuration, making it ideal for families, businesses, or adventure enthusiasts. Despite its discontinuation in India, the Hiace GL remains a solid choice for those seeking a practical, dependable, and spacious vehicle.

The Toyota Hiace GL is a robust and reliable vehicle that has been a staple in the market for its versatility and durability. From my perspective, this van excels in its ability to cater to a wide range of needs, whether its for business use, family transportation, or adventure. The 2024 model enhances its predecessor with a sleek and modern design, improved aerodynamics, and advanced technology features. The interior is spacious and comfortable, with premium materials and ergonomic design that prioritize passenger and driver comfort. While it may not be a speed demon, its focus on practicality and dependability makes it an excellent choice for those seeking a trustworthy vehicle. However, its important to note that the Hiace GL has been discontinued in India, which might affect its availability and long-term support.

The 2025 Toyota Hiace is expected to undergo a significant transformation, including the possibility of it being marketed as a battery-electric vehicle for the first time. This move aligns with the industrys shift towards electric power. In India, the electric Hiace may be introduced later, following its initial launch in Japan and other Asian regions. I think this is a great step towards a more sustainable future for commercial vehicles.

India has seen a notable increase in the import of Toyota Hiace vehicles, with 29 shipments imported between February 2023 and January 2024, marking a 314% growth compared to the previous year. These imports were supplied by 12 foreign exporters to 20 Indian buyers. I believe this surge indicates a strong demand for the Hiace in the Indian market.

The current Toyota Hiace GL Diesel MUV available in India is powered by a 2.8-litre, four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine, producing 151 horsepower and 300 Nm of peak torque. It comes with a 6-speed automatic transmission and features like air conditioning, power windows, and a rearview camera. I think the Hiace GL is a reliable and comfortable option for families and businesses.

The Toyota Hiace GL in India has a seating capacity of 14 and is known for its spacious interior and generous legroom. It also features safety elements such as ABS, EBD, and dual airbags, earning it a five-star safety rating from the Global NCAP. I believe the Hiace GL is a well-rounded vehicle that balances comfort, safety, and reliability.

The Toyota Hiace GL Diesel MUV in India has an ARAI-certified mileage of 12 km/l in the city and 10 km/l on the highway. It is available in two variants: the GL and the GL Plus, with the latter offering additional features like leather upholstery and a DVD player. I think the fuel efficiency and feature-rich options make it a great choice for those needing a large, versatile vehicle.

The Toyota Hiace GL, when it was available, was priced at around Rs. 35.00 Lakh ex-showroom in India. On-road prices would vary depending on the city and state, but you could expect an additional Rs. 5-7 Lakh for taxes, registration, and other costs, bringing the total to approximately Rs. 40-42 Lakh. Given its discontinuation, potential buyers might need to consider purchasing a used model or exploring other options within the same segment. Despite this, the Hiace GLs pricing was competitive for its segment, offering a balance of features, space, and reliability.

The Toyota Hiace GL, with its 2.8-liter diesel engine and automatic transmission, offers a mileage of around 15 kmpl as per ARAI certification. This is quite respectable for a vehicle of its size and purpose, making it a viable option for those concerned about running costs. The fuel efficiency, combined with its reliability, makes it a cost-effective choice for both personal and commercial use.