Used 1997 Toyota HiAce

ODOMETER IS 191,207 KILOMETERS; CONVERTED TO MILEAGE IN LISTING



HIGHLIGHTS:

Legal JDM import

Clean NC title!

3.0L turbo diesel

4WD

3-row seating!

Turn-key driver!



BODY OVERVIEW: 

The exterior of this HiAce represents the classic "forward control" aesthetic that defined the golden era of JDM vans. The Super Custom Living Saloon EX trim means it wears its original Two-Tone paint and model-specific decals with pride. Structurally, the van is solid and well-preserved, showcasing the solid build quality Toyota is known for. It maintains a commanding presence on the road, though the driver is positioned directly over the front wheels, providing a panoramic view of the world (but from the right side of the cabin). As to be expected with any vehicle of this era, there are minor dings etc. from age and use, but overall it presents nicely. 



PAINT CONDITION OVERVIEW: 

The paint on this van appears to be original and presents very well. It holds a respectable shine, and is in good condition overall. However, time and the elements have left a few honest reminders of its history. Prospective owners will find minor rock chips on the front fascia from three decades of travel, fading on the original factory vinyl stickers and decals, and small, age-related blemishes consistent with its mileage. It is a "driver-level" exterior that looks fantastic from five feet away and is perfectly suited for actual use rather than being hidden under a silk car cover. 



INTERIOR CONDITION OVERVIEW: 

Step inside, and you are transported back to 1990s Japan. The interior is in excellent original condition, showing only the minor wear expected of a well-cared-for vehicle. The velour upholstery is plush and remarkably preserved, as this type of seat covering was seen as luxury in Japan at the time. The layout is a masterpiece of modularity: The middle row rotates 180 degrees to face the rear, the sliding third row folds down to create a massive cargo area or a makeshift sleeping platform, and power curtains allow for instant privacy at the touch of a button. The original Japanese head unit has been removed, but it would have only picked up static on US frequencies anyway. The power windows and power curtains work, however buyers should note that the passenger side curtain gets hung up during operation. 



MECHANICAL OVERVIEW: 

Under the front seats lies the 1KZ-TE 3.0L turbo diesel engine, a powerplant renowned globally for its durability and low-end torque. Paired with a smooth-shifting automatic transmission and full-time 4WD, this HiAce handles highway cruising and off-road excursions with equal capability. All mechanical systems and accessories seem to function exactly as they should. It starts promptly, idles smoothly, and offers that distinctive diesel clatter that signals a lifetime of reliability ahead (plus that sweet, sweet turbo whistle!). 



WHAT YOU'LL LOVE ABOUT THIS CAR: 

You will love the sheer "cool factor" of driving a high-spec van that most Americans have never seen before. The 4WD system makes it an incredible candidate for a unique overlanding build or a weekend camper. The visibility is unparalleled, and the 180-degree rotating seats turn every parking lot hangout into a mobile living room. Furthermore, the 1KZ engine is a torque-rich gem that makes this van surprisingly capable in traffic compared to its naturally aspirated counterparts.



WHAT YOU MIGHT HATE ABOUT THIS CAR: 

If you are shy, this is not the vehicle for you; expect to spend ten minutes explaining what it is every time you stop for fuel. The right-hand-drive configuration requires a brief learning curve, particularly when navigating drive-thrus or overtaking on two-lane roads. Additio