Last Updated on February 7, 2023 by Leepu Da Maxim
Toyota HiAce is a popular minivan in many parts of the world and is used by hospitals, churches, schools, government agencies, and transport companies because of its convenience. In the U.S., the sale or use of the vehicle is prohibited because it doesn’t pass the U.S. crashing test.
Key Takeaways
- The crash test is conducted by the (NHTSA) National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (VRTC)Vehicle Research and Test Center
- Toyota HiAce doesn’t pass the crash test and it is the main reason this model is not available in the USA
- The HiAce is a van model and in the US market this type of design doesn’t have a high demand
- The Toyota HiAce also doesn’t meet the safety and emission standards set by the US government
Three Reasons Why Toyota HiAce Isn’t In The USA
1. It Didn’t Pass Crash Testing
As we’ve already mentioned, the Toyota Hiace has never passed the crash test, and it’s therefore prohibited to be sold and used in the USA. Vehicles that do not pass this test are considered a safety hazard to occupants, and the U.S. Department of transportation recalls them.
2. It Doesn’t Have A Bonnet
The Toyota HiAce has its engine located at the car’s base, thus leaving this car without a bonnet. In the U.S., vehicles without a bonnet are not allowed since this design is bad for aerodynamics. You cannot drive a vehicle without a bonnet, especially on the highway, for safety reasons. The new Toyota Hiace 2019, six generations, comes with a bonnet while all the previous models didn’t. The exterior design has also been redesigned with an overhaul of the engine and transmission systems. Could this be a way of trying to penetrate the U.S. market? Time will tell.
3. Toyota HiAce Is Built For Narrow Roads
The design of Toyota HiAce is popular with vehicles being driven on narrow roads. Due to aerodynamics on freeways in the U.S., the Toyota Hiace would be a cause of concern for road safety. Maybe if the vehicle were redesigned, it would handle aerodynamics better and guarantee occupant safety.
Frequently Asked Questions On Toyota Hiace
Q. What Are The Specifications Of The Toyota Hiace
| Engine capacity | 2.5 |
| Displacement (cc) | 2494 |
| Fuel type | Diesel |
| Transmission | Automatic |
| Seats | Max 17 seats |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 liters |
Q. In Which Country Is The Toyota Hiace Built?
Toyota HiAce was built in Japan
Q. What Are Some Alternatives To Toyota HiAce In The USA?
If you are looking for some good alternatives to Toyota Hiace that you can find in the U.S., check out these models.
1. Ford Transit
2. Chevrolet expresses
3. Ram ProMaster
4. Ford e series
5. Nissan NV
6. Ford transit connect
7. Mercedes Benz sprinter
8. GMC Savana
Conclusion
Toyota HiAce is an excellent reliable van that is convenient for commercial and domestic use. The vehicle is not in the U.S. market due to safety concerns. However, there are other good alternatives you can buy if you want a compact and reliable van.
Hi, I’m Leepu Da Maxim, a dedicated car enthusiast with over 10 years of experience in this field, and I’m thrilled to share my passion and expertise with fellow car enthusiasts like you. My journey began in my hometown West Jordan, Utah, where my fascination with the mechanics and design of cars sparked at a young age. Over the years, this passion has evolved into a commitment to providing accurate, insightful, and engaging information about all things automotive through CarsAmazing.
