A 4WD van is a great option for people who seek a comfortable live-in vehicle that’s suitable for backcountry adventures. The Toyota Hiace 4WD is a great example and the workhorse of choice in many developing parts of the world due to its bulletproof reliability and robust 4WD system. Despite these credentials, the Hiace has remained something of an underdog in North America, which means prices are far more reasonable than an equivalent AWD Sprinter. However, as more people recognize the merits of this platform, prices are creeping up steadily (also in part due to increasing aftermarket support), making these vans a sound investment. If you’d like a better idea of how this platform can be outfitted for travel, check out the inspiring builds from OttoEx, Dusty Odyssey, and Vanlife Northwest. Today’s 1994 offering has covered just 90,000 miles and features premium upgrades and a well-equipped camper interior.
From the Seller:
“This van has approximately 90,000 miles on it. In its 29 years of life, it has averaged only a little over 3,100 miles per year. We bought it three years ago when it came off the boat from Japan. We went camping all over in it—New Mexico, Colorado, Wyoming, Idaho, and Oregon. During those trips, it was extremely reliable and continues to be so. The Hiace shares many of the same drivetrain components (transmission, transfer case, and differentials) as the same-year 4Runner and Hilux. That should speak to the robustness of the platform. It’s a fantastically reliable engine that’s surprisingly easy to change the timing belt on. It gets great fuel mileage; when I’m driving 55-60 mph, I get 20 mpg. And when I’m driving on the freeway at 65-75 mph, I’ve gotten over 18 mpg. That’s really good considering it’s riding on oversized tires, with a pop-up camper on top, and is a full-time 4×4.”
1994 Toyota Hiace 4×4 Super Custom
The Hiace is fitted with a 1KZTE 3.0-liter turbo-diesel engine that produces 129 horsepower and 245 pound-feet of torque (there are higher output models available). A long-lived and relatively frugal motor is matched with impressive capability thanks to full-time 4WD, low range, a snorkel, rear locking differential, and more. Inside, the Toyota includes the following driver comforts:
- Air-conditioning
- Cup holders
- Center console
- Power steering, locks, mirrors, and windows
- Upgraded Pioneer stereo
Distinguishing Features
- BFGoodrich KO2 tires
- LED lighting
- Camping drawer system and sleeping platform
- Large Marine AGM house battery
- Roto-pax 2-gallon diesel container
This 1994 Toyota Hiace 4×4 Super Custom is listed for $21,900 and is currently located in Taos, New Mexico. Check the full vehicle specifications via the original Expedition Portal forum post here.
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