Is there a newfound appreciation for the flatnose Toyota Hiace all of a sudden? While it never faded in popularity, the factory support for this model seems to have spiked.
Last time out, we featured GR Parts and Modellista versions of the popular van. As it turns out, there’s another version of the latter dubbed the Dark Prime.
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Okay, it’s more a Modellista package for another special edition of the Hiace called the Dark Prime. These models were introduced to commemorate this generation’s 20th anniversary and adds more premium interior touches (such as faux wood) and dark chrome elements.
At the same time, the 2.8-liter diesel gets mild updates. Power is rated at 149hp and torque is at 300Nm. It’s not as powerful as the version found in the longer (and newer) Commuter Deluxe sold here, but it’s an improvement nonetheless.
So, on to the kits. Well, it’s identical to the non-Dark Prime versions with several styles available. The key difference here is the use of dark chrome trims to complement the look of this specific variant.
Of course, there are different wheel options to choose from. All measuring 15 inches, there’s the split-spoke type, the ‘turbine’ design, and the classic six-spoke look. These wheels can be mixed and matched with whatever kit style the customer wants.
There’s also one particularly interesting option for the Dark Prime Modellista, er, models. One can add a branded rolling futon for the van, in case anyone wants to take a nap inside, or outside, the Hiace. At ¥22,000, (around P8,300), that better be a comfortable mini mattress.
