Toyota · campervan
Toyota Hiace
RoamWorthy records the Toyota Hiace as a campervan. Recorded catalogue data: 2 to 4 berths; layout: Rear Lounge; length 4.70m; width 1.70m; height 2.00m; MTPLM 2,800kg; payload 800kg; recorded price range £8,000 to £35,000. No live dealer stock is currently linked to this model on RoamWorthy. Specifications can vary by model year, trim and optional equipment. Check the individual listing and manufacturer documentation before purchase.
Toyota Hiace key facts
- Berths: 2-4
- Unladen weight: 2000 kg
- Payload: 800 kg
- Length: 4.7 m
- Width: 1.7 m
- Observed price range: £8,000 to £35,000
Key features
- Legendary Toyota Reliability and Durability
- Compact and Easy to Drive Dimensions
- Fuel-Efficient Engine Options
- Versatile Platform for Custom Conversions
- Strong Resale Value
- Low Maintenance and Running Costs
- Excellent Maneuverability
Is the Toyota Hiace a reliable choice for a compact camper conversion?
The Toyota Hiace is a highly regarded platform for compact campervan conversions, valued for its mechanical durability and manageable 4.7m length. It supports between 2 and 4 berths and is frequently found with practical layouts such as rear benches and side kitchens. With a MTPLM of 2800kg and a payload of 800kg, it offers a robust foundation for custom builds within a price range of 8000 to 35000.
- Compact dimensions with a length of 4.7m and width of 1.7m.
- Flexible sleeping options for between 2 and 4 berths.
- Payload capacity of 800kg for conversion equipment and luggage.
- Available with Pop-Top or Fixed High Top roof configurations.
- Common layouts include Side Kitchens and Rock'n'Roll beds.
Worth knowing: Standing room is often restricted unless a high top or pop-top is fitted. Interior amenities are typically more basic than those found in full-sized motorhomes. Safety specifications vary significantly between older and newer production years.
Buying a Toyota Hiace Campervan
Who it suits
- Solo travellers or couples seeking a vehicle that is easy to park in urban environments.
- Budget-conscious buyers looking for a reliable entry point between 8000 and 35000.
- Drivers who prefer a compact 4.7m footprint for navigating narrow rural roads.
Reasons to consider it
- Renowned for exceptional mechanical longevity and low maintenance costs.
- Strong resale value due to the reputation of the Toyota brand.
- Manageable 2m height on many models allows for easier storage and access.
What to check
- Confirm the specific roof type as this dictates internal standing height.
- Verify the berth count as conversions range from 2 to 4 person capacities.
- Check the service history to ensure the engine has been maintained to Toyota standards.
- Inspect the quality of the Rock'n'Roll bed installation in custom conversions.
Worth knowing: Older models may lack the modern safety features found in more recent van generations. The 1.7m width makes for a narrow interior compared to some European alternatives.
Compare the Toyota Hiace with similar models
| Model | Berths | Maximum weight | Length | Typical price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Toyota Hiace | 4 | 2800 kg | 4.70 m | £8,000 to £35,000 |
| Toyota Alphard | 4 | 2750 kg | 4.85 m | £14,000 to £38,000 |
| Nissan Elgrand | 4 | 3000 kg | 4.85 m | £12,000 to £35,000 |
The Toyota Hiace remains a staple of the compact camper market, primarily chosen for its mechanical reputation and 4.7m length. While it lacks the wider cabin of a Renault Trafic or the higher 3000kg MTPLM of a Nissan Elgrand, its 800kg payload and 2800kg MTPLM provide a balanced platform for 2 to 4 berth conversions. It occupies a competitive price bracket, starting at 8000, making it an accessible alternative to more expensive modern imports.
Worth knowing: Specifications and prices can vary by model year, trim and optional equipment.
Ownership and Maintenance Tips
- Utilise the 1.7m width by choosing side kitchen layouts to preserve floor space.
- Regularly check the seals on pop-top roof conversions to maintain weatherproofing.
- Take advantage of the compact 4.7m length to use standard car parking spaces.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Assuming all models have standing room; many require a pop-top to exceed the 2m exterior height.
- Overloading the rear bench if the conversion has not accounted for the 2800kg MTPLM.
Worth knowing: Payload must be monitored when adding heavy bespoke cabinetry to the 800kg limit.
Alternatives to the Toyota Hiace
- Toyota Alphard - The Alphard offers a slightly longer body at 4.85m and a higher starting price of 14000 for those seeking a more modern Japanese import.
- Nissan Elgrand - The Elgrand provides a higher MTPLM of 3000kg for owners requiring a greater gross vehicle weight than the Hiace.
- Renault Trafic - A similarly sized model worth comparing on layout, weight and price.
Data and source notes
- This page uses the maintained RoamWorthy record for the Toyota Hiace.
- 8 model images are recorded for this page and served from RoamWorthy-hosted media.
Proof notes
- Specifications can differ by production year, trim and optional equipment.
- Dealer listings are used as current marketplace evidence, not as a substitute for the exact vehicle documentation.
Worth knowing: Confirm weights, dimensions and fitted equipment for the exact vehicle before purchase or towing.
Sources and review status for the Toyota Hiace
This page is supported by 1 recorded source group.
- RoamWorthy maintained model catalogue (editorial_database)
Last reviewed: 2026-08-02T05:00:22.630969+00:00