Toyota HiAce

All 2023 Toyota HiAce models receive powered lumbar support for the driver’s seat.

Up front the new HiAce represents a huge step forward from its tired predecessor.

The driving position is really good. There’s plenty of adjustment in the steering wheel, and the seat itself slides far enough to accomodate gangly legs. The only real knock is the fact my knee gets pinched between the wheel and gear shifter when it’s slotted into sixth.

We did a couple of long stints behind the wheel and experienced no pins and needles or numb bum syndrome, which bodes well for drivers whiling away days in their HiAces. It’s easily the most comfortable van I’ve driven.

The dashboard isn’t what you’d call exciting, but there are no fewer than three cupholders on hand for van drivers in need of a caffeine hit. The glovebox is lockable and deep, while the door pockets are also spacious.

These new rear barn doors open 90 degrees with a soft lock, but can be folded back to 180 degrees for easy access to the load area.

Toyota says it’s introduced the barn door option in response to customer demand.

It hasn’t offered a HiAce locally with barn doors since the HiAce SBV was discontinued in 2003, despite the feature being standard on the rival Ford Transit Custom and Peugeot Expert, a no-cost option on the Hyundai Staria Load, and a cost option on the LDV G10, Mercedes-Benz Vito, Renault Trafic and Volkswagen Transporter.

Toyota’s infotainment system is serviceable, but already feels a bit sluggish compared to what’s on offer at Volkswagen. It’s relatively quick to respond, and factory navigation is a handy addition for drivers who might be delivering beyond the reach of mobile reception.

But the automated speed limit, school zone, speed camera, railway crossing, and red-light camera warnings are infuriating. They cut in over your music or phone call, and speak way too often. One prompt for a school zone is arguably too many, let alone one when you approach, one when you enter, and one when you leave.

The system also picks up school zones and railway crossings for some adjoining roads, so your music is interrupted for something that doesn’t even impact you.

We worked out how to kill the speed limit and camera warnings, but couldn’t figure out how to shut up the navigation near a school zone – although there must be a way.

Having Apple CarPlay and Android Auto papers over some of the infotainment system’s shortcomings. It worked flawlessly during our time with the car, and offers far easier access to phone-quality entertainment, phone calls, and mapping.

Payload varies between 995kg and 1135kg depending on the variant.