What are some of the longest-running production models around? We’re not talking about nameplates here. Rather, we’re referring to a single generation.
Some answers that come to mind are the Y61 Nissan Patrol (since 1999), the Land Cruiser 70 Series (1984), and who can forget the evergreen Mitsubishi L300 (1979)? Now, we can include the fifth-generation Toyota Hiace in the ‘20-year old and up’ club.
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Most folks will probably know the fifth-generation as the last ‘flatnose’ version of the van. First launched in 2004, this year marks the 20th year of production of that model. Despite the introduction of the sixth-gen Toyota Hiace in 2019, this generation continues to be sold in markets where it’s available, the Philippines included.
For the 2024 model year, all variants of the fifth-get Hiace get minor updates. These include a new grille and alloy wheel designs for select models. Toyota also added what’s called an ‘Earth Color Package’ for both narrow and wide body versions of the van. The new colors added are beige and khaki.
Toyota even gave the wheelchair accessible version of the Hiace a new feature for 2024. The big change here is electronic wheelchair anchor bars to make loading and unloading quicker and more efficient. The wheelchair access van is only available in wide body, high roof form.
Also getting an update is the ambulance version, the HiMedic. It now has something called ITS Connect. ITS Connect alerts other ITS Connect-equipped vehicles that the ambulance is on an emergency run. That way, motorists are made aware even before The ambulance is seen or heard.
Going back to the standard models, the engine options remain the same. In Japan, there's a choice of a 2.0-liter gas engine (as used in the Innova) or a detuned version of the familiar 2.8-liter turbodiesel. In its home market there is only one transmission choice, namely a six-speed automatic. Four-wheel drive is also an option for the Japanese-spec Hiace.
