Stock #5915
To access tough terrain with cargo, friends, and family normally you would have to be riding in a hulking SUV or massive truck. This 1997 HiAce is plenty capable, with its durable turbodiesel and full-time 4x4 drivetrain, it's also well refined to boot. Finished in a Desert Dune over Purplish Gray (2BY) two-tone, this slab-sided transporter is set off by a stylish set of OEM rainguards, refinished factory alloy wheels, and some adventure-themed vinyl. Aside from a few light dings, chips, and scratches the paint is in good nick, and this recently serviced rig is offered with a mere 152k verified and documented miles on the clock. As all-weather family haulers, capable adventure mobiles, and unique daily drivers, these Toyota's are certainly well suited! Collectible, unique, and practical, these Super Customs are a seriously good Japanese Classic.
As far as utility is concerned, this HiAce knocks it out of the park in terms of interior comfort, amenities, and accessibility. This Super Custom features 3 rows of versatile seating, numerous power options, and oodles of living space for any overland excursions. Your passengers get the good end of the deal in this cabin, as the middle row swivels to meet the rear for some additional bonding time during a road trip. Additionally, all three rows fold fully flat if you wish to create a pseudo-sleeping surface and catch some Z's. Power windows, power mirrors, and power locks work like a charm, and a triple moonroof suite is on hand to maximize ventilation and natural light. The interior is upholstered in a complementary tan cloth, and discerning drivers will appreciate the lack of unwanted rips, stains, or other miscellaneous damage on the materials. Even the headliner, carpet, and dash are in good nick, and seem to have withstood the past couple of decades on the road without sustaining major abuse. Tucked away in the dash are dual SRS airbags, and the driver additionally benefits from a tilt-adjustable steering column. Positioned below is the functional OEM touchscreen audio and a simple-to-navigate digital automatic climate control system. Your passengers also get their own say over their cabin temperature, as dual-zone A/C and heat work like a charm in the rear. We did want to note the power folding function of the side mirrors has given up the ghost, but overall, it's hard to find a better value in terms of interior space and amenities, and it's clear this one was cared for in a prior life!
Unlike nose-heavy American vans, the HiAce boasts a mid-engine, 4WD design. This pays dividends in handling, and while this is no Ferrari, it certainly corners better than you'd expect. The 1KZ-TE is fresh off an oil and filter service, and starts up with a twist of the key thanks to a newly installed 12v battery. A new valve cover gasket was installed to keep the oil level on full! It's a good practice to change the fuel filter out on these diesels, and so we did, and this 1K is running right as rain. Power is fed through a stout automatic transmission and sent to both axles. Shifts are seamless and the auto makes decent use of the four-bangers broad torque curve. The HiAce is entertaining stoplight-to-stoplight and comfortable on the highway. The suspension offers loads of ground clearance and handles large and small road imperfections alike with confidence. One of our trained techs has given the running gear a refresh with new upper ball joints and new outer CV boots. The brakes are responsive, and grip comes from new all-terrain 28" TOYOs mounted and balanced at all four corners.
*California Residents: In order to register a Grey Market vehicle in the state of California then it will have to be made CARB compliant first. CARB certifications will have to be performed within the state. Depending on the vehicle and any existing modifications will affect the pricing. Typically CARB compliance will range between 5-10K. Additional information can be found on the California Air Resources Board website.
