The diesel in the 1992 HiAce is legendary, but the silly part of my brain wants a V-8 van.
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The diesel engine that came in the 1992 Toyota HiAce is an icon. The torquey, stout mill was perfect for a commercial van. Its reliability is a key part of why HiAces stick around for so long. There’s no logical reason to swap out the motor, which is why I like this V-8 swap even more.
Someone in New Zealand has fitted one with the 1UZ V-8 that Americans may recognize from the original LS400. You do lose that diesel charm, but you get smooth, torquey, V-8 power in an engine equally renowned for longevity. This is the same engine that powered Matt Farah’s famous Million-Mile Lexus, after all.
Unlike in the LS400 and Celsior, though, this 1UZ is now attached to a five-speed manual transmission. The casual cruiser character of the 1UZ and the van chassis mean this won’t exactly be thrilling to drive, but it’s enough to make a commercial van interesting. The lowered suspension and aftermarket wheels tip off passersby that this is something special.
The custom camp bed, mattress, and curtains would make this a great adventure rig, too. You just have to get it to the States from New Zealand. Or, better yet, go have some adventures in one of the world’s most beautiful places. The van’s for sale as we speak, though, so book that ticket soon.
Keyword: I Want This 1UZ V-8-Swapped Toyota HiAce