The Japanese company Toyota announced limited facelift updates for the 2026 Hiace in Japan.
The Japanese version of Toyota Hiace is one of the oldest continuous models without radical change, as its current generation dates back to 2004, and as it enters its twenty-second year, in the 2026 model year it will receive its twelfth update, and it is the broadest package of updates in more than a decade.
Hayes.. Limited external updates
Toyota was keen to keep the exterior changes to the Hiace to a minimum, as it received new graphics for the Bi-Beam LED headlights, while the body design and cabover formula remained unchanged.
The Hiace’s cabin is more modern
Hiace has finally received a clear modern touch, as all categories are equipped with an 8-inch touch screen integrated into the center console, which supports the navigation system and a panoramic view camera, in addition to a 7-inch digital instrument screen as standard.
The higher classes received additional equipment, as heated front seats became standard in the Super GL class, while the basic class received a new function to install the tailgate.
Safety systems in Toyota Hiace
The most notable updates came in terms of safety, as the Hiace was equipped with the latest version of the Toyota Safety Sense package, which includes a radar cruise control system with speed control in corners, a lane change assistant, a road sign recognition system, and a pre-collision avoidance system with improved detection capabilities.
Mechanical specifications of Toyota Hiace
Hiace continues to rely on a ladder frame with an engine under the front cabin with a cab-over design, and the engine options remain the same; The first is a 2.0-liter gasoline engine with a power of 158 horsepower and 182 Nm of torque, while the second is a 2.8-liter diesel engine with a power of 149 horsepower and 300 Nm of torque.
Both engines are linked to a 6-speed automatic transmission, with the option of rear or four-wheel drive.
Hayes customization options
Toyota offers a wide range of accessories and customization packages through Modellista and GR Parts, along with original add-ons for commercial or recreational use, and the company has also introduced ready-made customization modes that include; Overland for outdoor excursions, Active Cruiser for water sports, Urban City for everyday use, Cool Luxury for highways, and Craft Man for construction.
Toyota Hiace price
The updated Hiace will be launched in Japan from February 2, and will be offered in van, wagon and commuter trim levels.
The price starts at 2,860,000 Japanese yen (about 18 thousand dollars) for the DX category with a gasoline engine, and reaches 4,683,800 yen (about 29,500 dollars) for the top-equipped diesel Super GL Dark Prime II category.
Despite the continuation of this generation, Toyota hinted at a fully electric future for the Hiace name through a test model shown at the 2025 Japan Mobility Show, without setting a production date yet.
