1997 Toyota HiAce Touring

The cabin is filled with premium materials, factory upgrades, and eclectic amenities. Unlike its cabover sibling, this semi-bonneted version comes with standard dual SRS airbags and additional crash support. The wheelbase is also longer, which makes high speed interstate cruising more stable and increases interior cargo volume. The driver slides into the cabin thanks to a tall ride height and a tilt adjustable steering column allows the pilot to find the ideal driving position. For daily use, power folding mirrors and power locks work in typical Toyota fashion. The dashboard design is clean and simple, with dual zone digital climate controls within arms reach. The system has separate settings for those riding in the rear and can be flicked on with the press of a button. The heat is piping hot in case an immediate camping trip is in order, and for the spring and summer ahead the A/C blows ice cold. For those who prefer more natural ventilation, the side glass pops outward, the power windows retract downward, and two massive sunroofs can be opened. The front unit is manual and can be tilted upward, and the massive rear panoramic moonroof slides back, revealing a view of the heavens above. It’s convenient that the tan cloth seats convert into a sleeping surface, and if you park this van in the wilderness and gaze through the roof, it’s an unforgettable experience. Touchscreen Pioneer audio is close by to soundtrack your drive, and the audio quality is above average for its age. The aforementioned upholstery is in good shape and lacks any major rips, stains, or tears. The material is soft too, and long hauls can be had in comfort, regardless of where you may be seated. The front captains chairs have integrated armrests and like the middle row, they can also swivel 180 degrees to face rearward. The rear row also slides fore and aft and can be removed completely for an off the grid buildout. The cargo area is in good shape and the headliner, carpets, and door cards have withstood the past twenty five years without sustaining major abuse. Even the owners manuals, maintenance booklets, and OEM optional curtains are included with the purchase.

Related to the cabover HiAce, this design was dreamed up to pass Euro NCAP safety standards. A larger crash structure was standard, and the engine was shifted forward to improve weight distribution. While a slate of engines were available, the most desirable is the 1KZ-TE turbo diesel that sits under the bonnet of this example. Fresh off an oil and filter service, the 3.0L churns to life care of a new 12v battery. A fuel filter replacement was performed for a bit of preventative maintenance, and we also installed a new engine air filter. Thermal management is handled by a brand new radiator and we flushed the old coolant out and replaced it with new fluid to prolong the life of your cooling system. The 1KZ is linked to a stout automatic gearbox that sends power to both axles. Acceleration is impressive for a van of this vintage and the low-end torque from the diesel is tough to beat stoplight to stoplight. It slows down confidently thanks to new rear brake pads and standard ABS. The power steering is light and on point and the long wheelbase nicely distributes bumps. High speed stability is this model’s calling card and rolling down the highway at 75 MPH feels akin to a large luxury sedan. Grip comes from four new Toyo all-terrain tires mounted and balanced right here at the dealership. To prolong tire life we aligned this rig to factory specs and sent it down the road to complete its VA state safety inspection. Turn key and ready to rock, this hauler is ready for your entire flock!