First launched in October 1967, the HiAce has since been available in a wide range of body configurations, including a minivan/MPV, minibus, panel van, crew van, pickup truck, taxi and an ambulance. In Japan, the HiAce is exclusive to Toyopet Store locations. While a legend in the van world, sadly the HiAce was never offered for sale in the United States. 

This is a fourth generation model, which first appeared in the second half of  1989 and was available in standard wheelbase and long wheelbase variants and even a super long wheelbase high roof van. The facelifted fourth-generation HiAce was launched in August 1993 along with the 1KZ-TE Turbo Diesel power plant, replacing the 2L-TE and 3L diesels.

So what makes it so cool? Well, aside from being a truly off-road capable 4WD van (especially when modified, as so many of these are), it also has a really cool and relatively spacious interior that features a middle row bench seat that can swivel 180 degrees and even lay flat. The rear row is completely removable, slides forward and backward, and even folds flat to create a makeshift bed. In short, it’s the perfect little adventure van.