I live in a hiace commuter which I have converted into a campervan which has gone without a hitch over the last 240,000km. I have friends who have driven more than 1million km in their 90'e hiaces (mine is a 2000 model). The fuel economy is not amazing compared to brand new Mercedes sprinter vans and ivecos which get upwards of 1000km per tank, but the money saved on servicing a Toyota instead of a European car has made owning this van even more worth it. Definitely recommend a hiace commuter for vanlife! You won't regret it.

I, like a previous reviewer, am concerned about the way Hiace performs in high winds, is there anything that can be done, I'm a 71 yr old grey nomad, and I'm very scared at times.
I get this serviced every time it's due, it's a great vehicle..
It had 390,00 on the clock when I bought it June 2017, and I have done 20, 000 so far.
It's easy to drive, except for windy conditions.

Bought the van a year ago had 245,000 on the clock. Stripped it out and converted it into a campervan. Runs a treat and have already racked up 30,000km. Still runs exactly how I bought it, no dramas! Would recommend it to anyone looking to buy one for either work or leisure.

My 2003 Toyota Commuter is the ideal vehicle for minimalistic travel. I have converted it to having a double bed (convertible to sears), fridge and sink ideal for road tripping or festival stays.
The van runs fairly well, but does experience some technical failures on ignition; you just have to get the right knack to overcome this.

Excellent camper-van Very reliable with the 2RZE engine, handles like a dream with the independent suspension.Walk through design from drivers seat to the back a great convenience. Good all round van go just about anywhere, more protection and quite with the motor in the front under the bonnet Just a little thirsty around town but excellent on a trip. Inexpensive to maintain and service. All round I believe the best Camper-van on the market for the money.
Everything
Nothing

Purchased a 1999 model, one of the first few of the face lifted version. Trade in a Camry Vienta V6 Grande, so was a huge step down. Was purchased as it was required for business purposes. Very reliable vehicle, as long as you remember to service it on time and get it attended to when required it provided good service. Alot of people neglect it, remember that its a workhorse and helps you make money. So remember to look after it.

After 400,000 km its still running strong!!
-Reliability-Its a Toyota, own three of them and historically much more-Holds its value
-Automatic transmission uses noticebly more fuel

The Toyota HiAce lasts years. The HiAce we have now was purchase second hand, and is still running like new.

Our particular HiAce is fitted with a hoist, which allows for easy wheelchair access. For anyone interested in doing the same, it's obvious Tiemans (hoists people) find the HiAce a great car to do so in.

We have had one issue in regards to electrics, however that was due to the previous owners inserting incorrect light bulbs into the lights and doing damage to the wiring.

And of course, because it's a popular vehicle you should be able to get support cheap enough - no having to pay for royalties.
Great vanSturdyPopularLasts ages