Stock #6115
Vans in Japan are leagues better than our crummy Stateside models. Models like this 1997 HiAce are refined, capable, reliable, and have abundant character. Finished in a lovely Flaxen Mica Metallic over Topaz Metallic (2AX), this hauler is set off by a set of refinished OEM wheels, a killer graphics package, and a stylish rear spoiler. Aside from a dent on the tailgate and a few light dings, chips, and scuffs the body is in good nick and this 4WD rig is fresh off a recent service. Boasting only 131k verified and documented miles on the ticker, this turbodiesel beast is barely broken in. Its spacious cabin and smooth ride make for a wonderful alternative to the cramped and creaky SUVs of this era. Practical, unique, and ready to conquer some rough terrain, this Super Custom Limited is a true Japanese Classic.
The cabin features tons of great equipment and abundant space. The cabover engine design lends itself to top-tier outward visibility for the driver. Unlike many transporters of this era, this HiAce utilizes dual front SRS airbags for some added peace of mind. Rarely found and highly desirable, a power driver seat and backlit gauge cluster spice up the cabin. The center console has a built-in CoolBox to keep your libations cold on a long road trip, too. The dashboard lacks any cracking or fading and the driver has plenty of room upfront despite the tilt adjustment of the steering column going out. The switchgear is close by and at hand, as are the controls for the automatic dual-zone climate system. Those in the rear have their dedicated controls, and the system blasts cold A/C and piping hot heat on demand. If natural ventilation is your thing, a massive center panoramic moonroof retracts back. The front and rear moonroofs can also be opened, the power windows rolled down, and the side glass popped out for maximum airflow. Music is handled by a Panasonic head unit upgrade that comes preloaded with Van Halen. If you were curious, the song Panama is not about geography! The seats are upholstered in a soft cognac fabric. Aside from some tiny holes, the cloth is in good shape and lack any major stains or tears. The middle row can fold flat and swivel 180 degrees to face the rear. The rear row can combine with the middle one to form a sleeping surface and it also slides fore and aft. Access to the cabin is easy as the sliding door opens wide. It also is powered, and soft closes when left ajar to prevent your battery from going flat. The power mirrors are also operable, although we wanted to note the left side no longer electronically folds or adjusts up and down. The headliner and carpets have withstood the past 25 years without sustaining major abuse and as a whole, the van appears to have been cared for properly in a former life. It even has the OEM owner’s manuals and carpet mats on hand!
Designed with an innovative layout, this mid-engine 4WD cabover is balanced thanks to a low center of gravity. The shorter wheelbase is ideal for parking in the tight confines of the city and the turning radius is minimal for a minivan. The legendary 1KZ-TE provides propulsion and is fresh off an oil and filter and service. It starts up promptly thanks to a new 12v battery. To keep the electronics properly powered we replaced the serpentine belts and installed a new engine air filter and fuel filter for good measure. The 3.0L pulls strong to redline and feeds power through an automatic gearbox to all four wheels. Acceleration is impressive for a van and sustained highway cruising is comfortable. One of our trained techs overhauled the suspension heavily so that this HiAce delivers a premium feel. New shocks were installed in the rear and we replaced the front upper control arms, too. The rear sway bar bushings were old and required new units and we also installed a front right inner axle boot. The Toyota goes right where you point it thanks to new inner and outer tie rods and a fresh alignment, and brand-new Toyo’s were mounted and balanced at each corner to provide all the year-round grip necessary. Even the brakes were improved upon with a set of new front pads. Turn key and ready to roll, this KZH106 is nicely reconditioned!