Can I get a Toyota HiAce in the USA?
The Toyota HiAce is a popular van known for its reliability, spacious interior, and versatility. While it is a common sight in many countries around the world, its availability in the United States is a bit more complicated. In this article, we’ll explore whether you can get a Toyota HiAce in the USA and what your options are if you’re interested in owning one.
Why Isn’t the Toyota HiAce Officially Sold in the USA?
The Toyota HiAce is not officially sold in the United States due to a combination of factors, including regulatory requirements and market demand. Here are some of the main reasons:
- Regulatory Compliance: Vehicles sold in the U.S. must meet strict safety and emissions standards set by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The HiAce, as it is manufactured for other markets, does not meet these standards without significant modifications.
- Market Demand: The U.S. market has traditionally favored larger vans like the Ford Transit, Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, and Ram ProMaster. Toyota may not see enough demand to justify the cost of adapting the HiAce for the U.S. market.
- Competition: The van market in the U.S. is highly competitive, and Toyota already offers the Sienna minivan, which caters to family and light commercial needs.
How Can You Get a Toyota HiAce in the USA?
Although the HiAce is not officially sold in the U.S., there are still ways to own one. Here are some options:
- Importing a Used HiAce: Under the 25-year import rule, vehicles that are at least 25 years old can be imported into the U.S. without needing to meet modern safety and emissions standards. This means you can legally import older models of the HiAce.
- Specialty Importers: Some companies specialize in importing newer HiAce models and modifying them to meet U.S. regulations. This process can be expensive but is an option for those who want a newer version of the van.
- Grey Market Imports: While not always legal, some individuals import HiAce vans through unofficial channels. However, this approach carries risks, including potential legal issues and difficulties with registration.
Alternatives to the Toyota HiAce
If importing a HiAce seems too complicated or costly, there are several alternatives available in the U.S. that offer similar functionality:
- Ford Transit: A versatile and widely available van with multiple configurations for cargo or passenger use.
- Mercedes-Benz Sprinter: Known for its premium features and reliability, the Sprinter is a popular choice for commercial and recreational use.
- Ram ProMaster: A cost-effective option with a spacious interior and front-wheel drive for better handling in certain conditions.
Conclusion
While the Toyota HiAce is not officially sold in the United States, it is still possible to own one through importing or specialty services. However, these options can be costly and require careful consideration. For those who prefer a simpler solution, there are several excellent alternatives available in the U.S. market that can meet your needs. If you’re considering a HiAce or any other van, feel free to reach out to Kevin’s Autos for advice and assistance with your vehicle needs!
Frequently Asked Questions
What vehicles can be imported into the US?
A motor vehicle that is at least 25 years old can be lawfully imported into the U.S. without regard to whether it complies with all applicable FMVSS. Such a vehicle would be entered under Box 1 on the HS-7 Declaration form to be given to Customs at the time of importation.
Why did they stop making Toyota HiAce?
Toyota LandCruiser, HiAce, Lexus LX production stopped over engine scandal - report. Toyota and its luxury brand Lexus have suspended production of four Australian-bound models in Japan, following the company's admission to cheating during engine certification testing.
Can I bring a Toyota Hilux to USA?
Yes, you can legally own a Toyota Hilux in the USA, but there are specific conditions and regulations you must follow, especially regarding the importation of vehicles that are not originally manufactured for the U.S. market.
Is the Toyota HiAce sold in America?
Toyota sell their off-road SUVs, pick-up trucks in the US. They even sell their HINO commercial truck in the US too. But they do not sell their HiAce commercial van in the US and Canada eventhough it is sold all over the world including down south in Mexico.
How much is the Toyota HiAce 2025 in the USA?
2025 Toyota HiAce Pricing and Specs. The Toyota HiAce 2025 prices range from $48,886 for the basic trim level Van HiAce LWB to $80,656.
How much is a brand new Toyota Hiace van?
The Toyota HiAce is available from $48,886 to $80,656 for the 2025 range of models in Van and People Mover body types.
Can I drive a Toyota HiAce in the US?
The Toyota HiAce van is one of the most immediately recognizable Toyotas, but not for North American drivers. By Toyota's count in 2019, the van has sold over 6.2 million units over six generations since 1967.
Will Toyota ever sell the Hilux in the US?
Due to this extremely high tariff fee, car manufacturers are basically forced to produce all of their light trucks inside of the US*. The Hilux is considered a light truck so America is deprived of this gem of a vehicle. This causes our trucks to be vastly different than the rest of the trucks seen worldwide.
What is the US equivalent of the HiAce?
Consider the Ford Transit or Ram ProMaster City as alternatives to the Toyota Hiace. Both offer spacious interiors and customization options for a travel van. They are readily available in the US and provide versatile configurations for family travel, making them good alternatives to the Mercedes Sprinter.
Why doesn t Toyota sell the Hiace in the US?
One of the most popular theories is that the HiAce wouldn't pass U.S. safety regulations. First on the market in 1967, The HiAce has sported a cab-over design for most of its existence. This puts the cabin above the front axle.
