How does the HiAce perform as an everyday driver in urban situations?
The Toyota HiAce, mainly a commercial van, has become popular with private owners as it is versatile and reliable. But it’s not clear if it’s suitable as a daily driver in urban environments. The van can be a blessing and a curse in the city, depending on the size of the van. Passengers and cargo will find enough space in it, although its length and width may create difficulties if you need to park somewhere in a tight parking place or narrow street. Due to the HiAce being developed with load carrying characteristics, it may handle differently to smaller passenger vehicles. Older or larger engine models also need to have concerns about fuel efficiency in stop-and-go traffic. Furthermore, the driving position and visibility, both suited to highway and commercial use, may need to be adjusted for city driving. When thinking of this as that car you are going to live with predominantly as your city car, the question arises regarding whether the practicality offers more benefit than the urban performance attributes can detract.
For its size, it’s surprisingly nimble. Once you get used to the dimensions it's not much harder to drive than a large SUV.
Not a terrible idea for daily city driving. Parking is a pain, and the fuel economy in stop and go traffic is awful.
I love it and use mine every day in the city. Its high driving position ensures excellent visibility when in traffic.
It's doable but not ideal. Good for wider streets, but a nightmare in old city centers where streets are narrow.
As a tradesman, it's perfect. I have the city down and can get around, and I always have my tools on me. Nothing else I'd trade it for.
Newer models do much better with urban driving than do old ones. A big difference is made by improved turning radius.
It's all about perspective. If you're used to small cars this will feel huge. It'll feel compact if you've driven trucks.
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