A real offroad campervan - Hiace 4x4!

[@TwoHemiViewer]

Holy shit, finally a comprehensive video explaining the nitty gritty rather than the bullshit walk around crap. Well done ✅

[@fatmanoverlanding]

What a wicked van. It's got its own charm. Reminds me of a smaller MB Sprinter 4WD van. Toyota should build a variant of the HIace like that from factory.

[@consciouslasagne354]

maybe, in the future

[@pippaknuckle]

Japan doesn't need it.

[@fatmanoverlanding]

@@pippaknuckle The same way they don't need a 70 Series LandCruiser. Yet they still build it for overseas markets.

[@bobkerwin2111]

Good video, I have one of these in a shorter LWB 300 series hiace with manual 6 speed gearbox, stelth bar with a winch inside and couldn't be happier I just got back from a 3,400 km round trip to do Googs track it performed flawlessly no ground clearance issues on the sand hills and gave a fuel economy of 12.2 letres per 100 km for the trip. My fit out is very basic no cupboards just a double bed across the back, fridge, toilet bins for food etc. 60 Litres spare fuel. Cheers.

[@markallen435]

The weight we carry is also working against us for fuel consumption.

[@arefeshghi]

Brilliant! I always thought if manufacturers produce an offroad capable van it would sell easily! Vans, in my opinion, are more practical than any other type of vehicle. However, perhaps they're overlooked due to their aesthetics or perceived as vehicles primarily for transporting people or for work, or a car for older people. If this perception changes, I'm confident we'll see offroad capable vans on the road.

[@tomskimcdouglegaming806]

They've been around for decades. The Mitsubishi Delica is an incredbly capable machine. 4wd vans have had their chance and never really took if in a meaningful way.

[@daves7104]

​@@tomskimcdouglegaming806I think the overall 4wd/camping/overlanding scene has exploded in recent years. The hot 4's scene is being almost entirely replaced by the 4wd/Ute scene. A proper 4wd van scene is coming to a town near you! I mean would you even bother building a camper van if a proper 4wd campervan was an option? I think not. That'd be like having a 2wd Ute. What's the point? My mates got one an I had to pull him out of some short grass the other day after a spot of rain cos his Ute isn't 4wd. 4wd anything is the future. Along with EV's, sadly

[@hi9580]

Niche market, high centre of gravity, similar to troop carrier, not being able to go places a wrangler or hilux is able to (it would rollover).

[@L2SFBC]

Nope. CoG similar to any 4x4. Very little weight up top.

[@NebraskaGonvilleJones]

@@hi9580That’s a bit of a furphy, vans these days are built with having a lower centre of gravity in mind. The 4 weel drive van market is exploding in the US and Europe, won’t be long before we see something similar here

[@hennietanya3533]

We actually have factory build Hi ace mini busses available in Lesotho -South Africa. These busses run daily up Sani Pass filled with passengers from surrounding areas into Lesotho.

[@pippaknuckle]

4wd?

[@MntlMajorkozmo]

Definitely a better option then some vehicle build prices out there. I wouldnt take it on my local tracks, but for what my ultimate goal with a 4wd is, this is ideal. Bonus points my wife will be able to drive it.

[@DarrenSmith-x6h]

Always wanted toyota to do a 4x4 van ,definitely a market there it would be very popular

[@MattBlack6]

Looks a fantastic set up. I think a whole heap of people go out and modify their four-wheel drives to a point where they will never use the capacity. We watch the guys at four-wheel drive 24/7 et al and assume that that's what we're going to be doing every weekend. Sure there are plenty of people who get stuck into that sort of thing but they're also plenty of people who could use this thing to get up some seriously rough tracks but still have all the excellent mod cons and usability for camping.

[@L2SFBC]

Agreed!

[@orenkipnis7058]

A very interesting video and a very interesting conversion. In personal I will never trade my VW T3 SYNCRO for any other rig.

[@peterelliott77]

Great video Robert, really appreciated the in-depth review and testing compared to the quick walk around we often see on other channels. Keep up the great work.

[@R00RAL]

We have one of these at work. Its terrific. I recommend them.

[@intimatespearfisher]

Well put together mate. Awesome job. Got to the important functional bits. You are Andrew St Pierre minus the ocd wank. Cheers Just some perspective for the hell of it. My 2016 Colorado with a small hybrid offroad caravan will do the same job. And I can drop it at camp and have similar offroad capability as the ranger. Total cost $40000 car plus 3-6 grand in mods including rear locker. Caravan $40000. Total Total $86000 and I can tour anywhere in comfort and drive fairly tough tracks if it takes my fancy. Buy this second hand and it's around 50

[@L2SFBC]

Thank you! Loved the -wank comment :-) However a car+van is different to a van, even if lower total cost. I might do an overall comparison sometime.

[@TurnMaster]

Would rather the hiace anyday. Would trust it way more than the ranger also. We have a few of these vans where I work and they are much higher off the ground !!

[@OutbackOutlaw]

Our organisation custom made our hiace as a 4wd, it’s a great vehicle

[@o0bananaman0o]

awesome alternative to a delica, looks like it needed a good fresh water rinse after some beach driving tho

[@mangomcpoo475]

we need to see a bus4x4 converted hiace :) much more clearance (spring over in the rear and custom front knuckle)

[@L2SFBC]

I agree!

[@adda58]

Check out ASPW - he is building one right now

[@everythingcool101]

Yeah also 4xoveland is building his bus4x4 converted hiance, check it out

[@93jummy]

Having driven thease in standard form and other hiluxes ect. The factory ECU map is far more de tuned then other 2.8. I reckon he may see huge improvements from transmission lock up switch and a remap.

[@cameronwood1994]

I have a lot of respect for those Hiace vans, a lot of tour companies in Kenya use them as safari vehicles and they put up with a lot of abuse on some truly dreadful roads without much complaint. The Nissan Urvan is also popular there for the same reason, but both are being replaced by ex-Police 79 Series, normally with a chassis extension and custom bodywork.

[@Peter79123]

Have had an Hyundai Starex 4WD 2007. It was amazing, such a shame that no one is building anymore great Van's like that. There exists only one at the moment from Russian GAZ.

[@L2SFBC]

Notes: 1. the Hiace runs 265/65/17 tyres, same as 4x4s like the Hilux, so ground clearance is the same. Mark is looking at 265/70/17 tyres. The limitation of the vehicle is rampover angle which is not the same as ground clearance. 2. There will be a follow-up video looking at the camper fitout. 3. Many are saying AWD vehicles are capable offroad. Well, 'capable' is subjective. Certainly the Delica D5, Transit Trail etc have offroad capability but I can't think of anything that could match this Hiace when it has front and rear axle lockers. If you want to see how well a 2WD SUV can go offroad then watch this. kzbin.info/www/bejne/bXmwgmVthr5_nZY Watch this for Part 2, inside the van kzbin.info/www/bejne/qaTKf59nbsh7m6c Follow Aussie HiLander on Facebook facebook.com/AussieHiLander

[@terrysmith7740]

Be nice if Toyota made these as standard 4x4. I think they would be popular. Thanks for the compare.

[@L2SFBC]

I agree too, they would be, but for whatever reason small forward-control 4x4s have never caught on.

[@terranowe]

@@L2SFBCI reckon if toyota took the plunge and stopped making the troopy and offered a tough version of these instead, and maybe a trayback version, a lot of mining companies would take them up instead of the troopy and it could would mean the parts network etc would support them in rural places too, not that many specialised non toyota parts are needed by the look of it.. Just the subframe? Anyway.. dreams are free. Aint gonna happen when the just did a refresh for the troopy with its 4cyl engine and autobox.

[@ArchieMakuwa]

The man is smart - very dope build that, I love it!

[@jamesmac7040]

Epic video. Addressed all of the offroad concerns. The side by side comparo snd second camera angles were perfect. Amazing work fellas. Really great video.

[@L2SFBC]

Thank you, good to know my video style is appreciated!

[@MASC440]

I owned a 1977 2 ltr - VW Kombi for 10 years in my 20s - loved it - Mercedes 15" rims with offroad tyres and it did Fraser/Moreton etc regularly. Great Hiace - larger lift and taller tyres would help but gearing sucks the fuel economy - but let the air down off road enough and that will self correct :)

[@taurota1554]

Awesome and outstanding as always.Thanks for sharing and taking us along

[@pholland6643]

Excellent. They have really missed a market not building a proper 4x4 van. The 4 motion VW comes closest. Like to see a review on that and the Staria I have.

[@sueneilson896]

As a VW swb Transporter 4motion owner, you are spot on. All the advantages of a van with quite good 4wd capability when lightly modified. 2600kg fully loaded as a camper, so good in sand and up hill. ps…. also excellent traction control.

[@bend3rbot]

It's a market, but so small there's no profit in the effort to engineer.

[@myvideoguy]

great to see some people pushing these and posting it online!

[@ragnarrock8747]

What an awesome van.. Toyota please make a 4x4 variant..

[@ShaneB666]

Almost the perfect touring / weekend camper vehicle, like to see the shorter wheelbase one though.

[@L2SFBC]

Less space horizontally and vertically :-(

[@warrencramer4516]

Maybe a better compromise?! Still a big van!

[@ShaneB666]

Yes, less space but better cross over angle and manoeuvrability. I could live with less space, its good people have a choice.

[@mofriday2307]

First video ive seen by you. So thorough and awesome! I'm sold on this vehcle now!

[@L2SFBC]

Glad it was helpful!

[@DENMONKEY]

As an ex delica owner I was sold until the fuel economy. I can get about 13l/100km towing my caravan in my modified pajero. . I do love a the space of a van though.

[@mitchelljack1590]

Great video again Robert.. appreciate your work

[@L2SFBC]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@GraemeChapman-d6z]

It would be great if Toyota did built a 4x4 van.Bring it on Toyota. I’m sure they would be popular in Australia.

[@stevegraham3817]

I still can't understand why the Japanese manufacturers will either not build 4wd vans, or build them, but won't sell them in Oz. Unfortunately the Europeans don't build vans to suit Oz conditions, if they bother building them at all.

[@charlesanim-mensah359]

There use to be 4wd hiace with a little lift but don't think they are producing them now

[@DiscoFang]

@@charlesanim-mensah359 They still produce Hiaces with full time 4WD and a slight lift. For the Japan market but a crap ton are imported here to New Zealand, both new and used.

[@charlesanim-mensah359]

@@DiscoFang Oh really thus nice

[@Monty_NSW]

The Delica if developed would have been awesome er...

[@allanhugh2044]

Really interesting vehicle, something like this is relatively affordable and will basically take you touring anywhere in the country. I'm not too shocked about the fuel consumption, built like a brick, and I'm guessing weighing somewhere around 4000kg as we see it and with that drivetrain in place; its just going to use juice. For comparison, our 6 tonne Isuzu NPS with 37" super singles fitted, drinks 18.2 - 18.5 l/100 pretty consistently. The fact that it can legally travel at 130 km/h in the Territory, is a bonus that none of the heavier light rigid truck based units are legally capable of. Not to mention the fact that a light rigid vehicle (4.5T - 8T) cannot legally exceed 100km/h in certain states; Victoria for example.

[@markallen435]

Good point about the speed restrictions of trucks. I own the van in the video and I know the weight we carry is against us with regards the fuel consumption. I'm sure a remap will help... stay tuned.

[@gtrain356]

Outstanding video, thank you gents.

[@gzahnd]

Dang, you stole Andrew White’s thunder with this one. :)

[@L2SFBC]

No, he'll have his own take on his car, plenty of thunder to go around!

[@kathyl67]

Enjoyed watching this. If I had more 4x4 experience this would be a dream vehicle to do the loop around Aus. Gives you the flexibility to go off road and see some magic.The camper fit out was nice but I'd probably have a different configuration if it was mine :)

[@L2SFBC]

Actually that's a good point, I should clarify. You need 4x4 experience to get the Hiace to places a Hilux would go. Conversely, the Hiace would cruise to areas that even an expert would struggle to take say a Sprinter or motorhome. So, it would still be a great Big Lap vehicle.

[@L2SFBC]

And stand by for a look inside!

[@kathyl67]

Oh yes! You know I love a camper layout and the mod cons that go with it. I look forward to it @@L2SFBC

[@markallen435]

I own the van in the video. Yes, it is our dream 4x4 to tour Australia. Understanding the restrictions of any vehicle goes a long way to how far you can go on tracks. Drivers ability and ability to know how to use recovery gear dictates how far you actually go.

[@davidr7236]

Enjoyed watching the van tackle all those tracks as it was giving me inspiration for what to try next with my rear locled 4motion van... And then you had to go and suggest that European vans wouldn't handle those tracks as well as the HiAce did... You might be right as cameras do tend to flatten hills, but there's two east coast 4x4 training companies that have been running 4motion van training for a few years now, so if you haven't seen what they're capable of it would be worth checking out. This is a really cool vehicle and lovely conversion, but i thought the VWs were expensive until i saw the price on this. I don't understand why folks think the euro vans can't handle Australia when they are driven all over Africa and Iceland. Without a direct comparison, you may be right; my experience is to just take it slow and steady and they can handle the ruts and wheel-raising. Plenty of vids of old synchros rock hopping. I had hoped a hiace alternative would be a cheaper way to get a VW outcome. Great review though, thank you.

[@backdoc94]

This is a great conversion. I have thought about the Sprinter vans but the AWD system we get in Australia is disappointing. I will look forward to see if anyone comes up with a bit more clearance in the future.

[@HermitHippy]

Now all standard Hiaces will have to be called a "Loace".

[@L2SFBC]

Ha!

[@paulbarry1044]

Great tourer.If it is anything like the last model,it will also be rediculously reliable.

[@slowboat6021]

looks like a great camper that's very capable.

[@zyamadeadborn1785]

There's this vehicle series in Russia - a GAZ Gazelle/Sobol van. Base is RWD, but there are 4WD versions available with low range and rear diff lock. They are quite capable off road with the limitation being dual rear tyres on heavier versions. As for size they are like in Ford Transit class, 3 to 4.5 tons GVW. Not sure if those are exported to Australia.

[@davidsmith9440]

There is a company in Australia that did import the GAZ but they have temporarily suspended doing that because of Russia's involvement in the Ukraine.

[@zyamadeadborn1785]

@@davidsmith9440 politics. Figures.

[@pippaknuckle]

@@zyamadeadborn1785 That's not politics, that's hatred of fascist aggressors invading peaceful countries. No one in Australia is going to buy Russian goods.

[@peterelliott77]

Thanks for the great review

[@L2SFBC]

Thank you for the Super Thanks, very motivational!

[@freedom.alovela501]

Thank you very much for reviewing this presentation. I'm looking for information.

[@L2SFBC]

Glad it was helpful!

[@4x4Overlanding247]

Haha you beat aspw to it 🤣 Nice vid and what a bloody good option for a comfy tourer! Very interesting to see how well it did but that height and length is huge

[@L2SFBC]

Everything's a tradeoff...

[@markallen435]

ASPW... 🤣🤣😂😂🥱🥱😴😴

[@michaelhermans4753]

A very interesting video, I can see there is a gap in the market, the space in this is so much more than a troopy at a similar price point The main drawback is the ground clearance especially in soft sand, a bit of wheel spin and your on your belly

[@L2SFBC]

Yes, so don't wheelspin! This is the point about needing a higher level of skills with this vehicle.

[@walterrwrush]

Longer set of maxtrax 😊

[@michaelhermans4753]

X overland just did a video on one with a lot of clearance

[@Fe_lix]

What a coincidence, I just bought myself a Hiace 4x4... Except mine is 30yo. Still think those old cab-over are really the most efficient design for space... Things is 20cm shorter than Troopy but has 1 extra meter of rear space! Also has a way shorter wheel base, helping with agility. Obviously the inevitable issue with the cabover design is the front overhang... Also maximum tire size without having to cut things is 29". Otherwise it's a regular Toyota part-time 4x4 with stock rear-LSD, can be lifted with Hilux kits and basically all the mechanical parts are Hilux so very standard and easy to source, even for a niche vehicle.

[@L2SFBC]

Yes, cabover great for space but not comfort :-( And 29" is too small a tyre.

[@ShaneB666]

Out of curiosity does it have low range or just a centre diff or is it AWD?

[@Fe_lix]

@@ShaneB666 yes it has low range! +diff ratio are 4.88 so it is really able to crawl.

[@Fe_lix]

@@L2SFBC coming from a 40 series I find it very comfortable for road cruise x) Definitively not a rock crawler but with some carefull driving can handle most public trails (at least in Europe). Over here 70 series were delivered stock with 29" and many people still drive them with this size (to stay legal...).

[@bertschuh5720]

My dream vehicle right there! Sad we can't get these in NA

[@katekuma849]

Great video guys! I’m still going to stick with the Raptor, and buy a 4x4 caravan

[@L2SFBC]

Another great option!

[@broccattley8919]

Very nice setup. But don't discount the D5 delica as they are way more capable than you can expect. I have built touring rigs for over12 years, had low range 4x4s and built a comp rig back in the day, I bought a d5 as an interim car for a couple of years and I am honestly blown away with how easy it deals with step rutted tracks and would have no issues touring aus in one and that's the key it's a touring setup so the gearbox has no issues without low rainge. Love the hiace though but not the build cost.

[@L2SFBC]

Not saying the D5 isn't capable, but it does lack offroad hardware. You definitely want low range for decent hills and rocks.

[@DavidLeane-cp2lz]

I've driven a delica off road and they very much over rated. Dirt road car that's it.

[@broccattley8919]

😂​@@DavidLeane-cp2lz

[@LimestoneCoastCustoms]

Nearing the completion of our "forever" 4wd (a budget build over a number of years & I even considered cutting the roof out) the only way we would get out of it is if there was a van of some sorts with 4wd that we could afford. I also own the MB Vito van which is a similar size to this, though I think a 4wd version of the sprinter would be the go for us with a shower & loo! just a bit more room. We hired an RV in Tassy a few years ago & though a little too big, it was only missing 4wd. I've seen a few conversions in the states & it's true, there is a hole in the market for 4wd vans both small & large.

[@adamkarim2277]

thank you for making this video so good..

[@cameronwood1994]

I'm also still staggered that your limit on a car licence is 4,500 kg. In the UK and pretty much the whole of Europe it's just 3,500 kg, which is why it's rare to see a European vehicle with a higher GVM - the Iveco Daily is a notable exception.

[@terranowe]

Hi Robert, Thanks for this comparison. Very interesting and I really appreciate the fine detail you go to in clearly demonstrating the different capabilities between the two vehicle's ability. This is what I want to see. Ditto for many of your other videos. No BS and fluff. Appreciated. How do you think the van would hold up to long periods of rough use (not abuse).. Not having a ladder chassis and being cross axled due to less suspension travel etc and getting hammered up rutted outback roads for days on end... Also with having two sliding doors on the side with large apatures that could potentially allow the chassis to have structural compromises and become stressed in ways the design was not intended for? Ditto winching or snatching from a monocoque chassis? Im sure it has been engineered appropriately but still that would be a concern for me. I would love to see a comparision between the enduraco, the bus 4x4 and a sprinter or even VW syncrho or transporter 4x4 van. The bus4x4 has another inch or so of ground clearance from what I understand but different suspension setup. Interested to see how this affected the ramp over angle or grip up some of the more challenging slopes you tested these vehicles on. Mark, thanks for putting your van up to this test. How have you found things like radiator and other mountings that were not intended for offroad used holding up to all the corrugations and offroad use? What about dust ingress with the large area of door seals etc that would encounter more flex and vibration? Any probs in that regard? Its a real shame that the van's economy is not a lot better, considering the likely high mileage these vans will do in their duty as offroad campers etc. That economy is worse than a v8 troopy with its crap aerodynamics and dinosaur tech. Not good enough in this day and age really. Surely something could be done about it, even beyond a engine tune and tranny lockup. Would it be possible to alter the transfer case to make it a part time 4wd so you can maybe get some more economy savings from reduced driveline losses on the sealed roads when 4wd is not so necessary? Even freewheeling front hubs? are they allowed? Thanks again and interesed to hear further about this type of van. Its an underapprecated and ignored market sector in my opinion.

[@L2SFBC]

Toyota expect their commercial vehicles to be used hard so I wouldn't worry about strength or build quality.

[@hantusmostert]

Nice, the hiace screams for 33 inch troopy wheels.

[@Nenette.Rintintin]

👏👏👏👍👍👍👍👍👏👏🇫🇷🫡 from France !

[@junglebunnymambo]

I love my vans for comfort but I’d like to see a like for like comparison with a troopy over the same tests. Similar pricing. Higher clearances, no modifications which means no voiding of warranty and the 2.8L auto in the 78 series is a game changer for those looking for an automatic option and better economy than the original V8. Oh and did I forget to mention optional front diff locks in the troopy from factory? I believe Andrew St Pierre white is doing that later down the line with a bus 4x4 conversion against his new 2.8L troopy build.

[@L2SFBC]

There is an optional front locker for this one too. The Bus model has 235/85/16 tyres as an option which I would want as they are tall and narrow, so they are clearly using different brakes to the EnduroCo which runs 17" rims. The Troopy would perform similar to the Ranger; wheelbase differences the same, but front locker would help it. The same rampover angle will be found.

[@junglebunnymambo]

Your thoughts over the warranty of your do these modifications?

[@junglebunnymambo]

Your thoughts over potentially voiding the warranty if you do these modifications I meant to stipulate?

[@L2SFBC]

Toyota warranty will be a problem yes.

[@junglebunnymambo]

If I were to consider one to choose from to tour, I’d prefer the troopy even if I had to spec it for comfort purely on keeping a factory warranty for peace of mind. I guess the troopy is a mini van with some sacrifice on space but as a factory option it makes a whole lot more sense as a standard off-road platform base to work from. I learnt to drive in a 79 hiace. I have VW Crafters- but give me a troopy any day if the idea as “fit for application” for touring this beautiful country without the potential for hassle when comparing the two. However - a great video on the hiace as an alternative. I’ve very much enjoyed it and will watch it again this evening.

[@ianmoore4327]

Always comes back to everything is a compromise. All you need to do now is work out where you want to compromise.

[@L2SFBC]

Exactly!

[@robmacca67]

Absolutely brilliant… this is something that has been missing in the market for years. Would be interested to see the standard length hiace and how it looks. Would like to know if it’s possible to fit a 32” tyre under it though…

[@L2SFBC]

265/70/17 will fit, it is thought, and the Bus4x4 version can run 235/85/16 so maybe that helps?

[@robmacca67]

@@L2SFBC​​⁠true, that’s the size I run on my defender but I think they said u can’t run a 16” wheel though?

[@markallen435]

@@robmacca67 I can't run the 16 inch rim on the Enduroco conversion because of the upgraded (larger diameter) brakes. I own the van in the video and am working on a solution.

[@TonyTony-rd4rj]

Why wasnt the rear dif and axle changed to under the leaf springs to increase the rear height clearance. That would stop the van from getting hung up.

[@off-roadingexplained8417]

I'm shocked that the traction control turns off on the ranger when your rear locker is on. That's what the older fjs would do. I wonder if you could trick it with a non selectable locker. If you had a ratcheting locker on the rear I guess the front traction control would still work? I'm glad that my traction control on the front works on my Jeep when my rear locker is on. Heck, my BLD is available when I'm driving on the street because of how the 4wd auto is set up. I can't turn it off , and BLD works in auto. He might even be able to improve the ramp over on that van just by adding sumo springs or something like that without even lifting it. It's heavy enough that he probably won't lose a tremendous amount of flex but under the extreme conditions the little bit higher spring rate will probably wind up giving him better functional clearance. I added spring rubbers to my Jeep since it doesn't have much flex anyway and it improved The real world clearance under load so much that on a particular obstacle where I used to scrape I no longer scrape. I was pretty surprised. This wasn't even a diagonal obstacle this was a dead on break over test.

[@ka4172]

Mercedes Sprinter "Iglhaut or Oberaigner conversion" are full size 4x4 with lowrange and lockers.,

[@JustPete65]

I see ASPW has just started a 4WD HiAce build

[@RBTrifficAdventures-tz2rh]

It's unlikely to be possible, but it would be interesting to see a comparison between this and the recently launched Kimberley Kruiswagon. The wagon is based on the MB sprinter LWB, and I note the comments against Euro vehicles in general including the Sprinter option, but the wagon has been extensively modified by Kimberley for off-road. Price tag is pretty steep.

[@L2SFBC]

The Kruiswagon is similar but different. It has even more interior space, and comes as a turnkey solution with KK's quality fitout. The Hiace is smaller, and you need to sort out your own interior build. As far as offroad is concerned, the KW wouldn't have a hope of keeping up with the Hiace - it's much longer, even longer wheelbase, no low range albeit reduction gears, no centre lock, no cross-axle locks, smaller diameter tyres and even worse rampover angle. So two different vehicles, neither is 'best', as ever it's the tradeoff one wants to make. The Hiace, especially in LWB not SLWB form, is approaching conventional 4x4 performance. The KW, and similar, are dirt-rough vehicles which you couldn't take down serious 4x4 tracks, but offer lots of other benefits.

[@RBTrifficAdventures-tz2rh]

@@L2SFBCRampover angle is definitely going to be worse. It is a more luxury package for those with the budget. I haven't seen one in the flesh, but in his video interview with Craig Gibbons, Russell Cockburn said that it has a centre diff lock - was that an error? Also a 2" lift from the factory. It isn't going to do your 4WD obstacles, but it should get you into interesting places.

[@L2SFBC]

I suspect the KK video is an error as the Sprinter typically doesn't have a centre lock, and MB's information talks about sending torque front or rear which implies a computer-controlled centre diff or clutch. However, I have not seen the specific vehicle they refer to, so I can't say for sure. I can't see a lock button anywhere on the driving console.

[@RBTrifficAdventures-tz2rh]

@@L2SFBCWell here is the reference at about the 2:25 mark. They are quite explicit about it, so it doesn't seem like a slip of the tongue. If you start from a bit earlier they say that the vehicle's basic capability is all from the factory and not from after-market 4WD modifications, although clearly there are a lot of mods made as part of the fit-out. kzbin.info/www/bejne/rH3WpmaZhKidpJo

[@L2SFBC]

Could be correct. Not driven one so can't say.

[@060racing8]

Unpopular opinion for most of the four-wheel driving people do you don't need a proper four-wheel drive. I believe that with an 8 9 or 10 speed automatic, it would be possible to get a decent crawl ratio so you don't need low range either, but your friends won't think you're cool if you're out there and then AWD SUV

[@L2SFBC]

See how you go without low range in a 3-4t campervan at slow speed on any incline or over rocks. Either won't move, or you'll overheat things. This Hiace has serious offroad capability and would spend all day crawling at low speed thanks to its centre lock and low range. Sometimes it's not if you can get there, it's how easy you can get there.

[@060racing8]

@L2SFBC towing a 3 to 4 tonne caravan completely changes things, but you don't need a caravan to travel around Australia . But in hard conditions, having a low range is very important and should give you a crawl ratio between 30/40 to where the best of the all-wheel drive SUVs with modern automatics are in in the mid 20s

[@flipcoin6301]

Get an old Nissan NV2500/Cargo Van and do a 4WD conversion. Much more capable in off-road handling and payload.

[@jackbarnes6929]

More clearance, more flex from the suspension, 33’s, more underbody protection. Forget about the engine mapping change the diff ratios and it would go from very good to brilliant.

[@L2SFBC]

Mark and I did discuss the diff ratios. You'll need to cut things for 33s though.

[@markallen435]

Unfortunately, there are physical and legal restriction's to fitting a 33 inch tyre. I know anything is possible, but I do try to stay legal for all the implications that follow.

[@JonnybandthebigT7]

The problem with these builds is you could buy 2 new hiace vans for the price...i researched this extensively when purchasing my slwb hiace and here's a reality check, this is a 65k conversion. A new hiace is 65k aswell. So if your prepared to spend 130k on a 4x4 hiace then this is 4 you...breaks my heart this shit is so expensive that its mostly out of reach...so i settled on a diff lock and accepted it was not a 4x4. Be awsome if it was more affordable..cool van but m8. Wanna swap 😉👍👍

[@markallen435]

You're right, it is a very expensive conversion (this is my van in the video). I looked at all the other options and the converted HiAce came out cheaper than most and gave us what we wanted in a touring 4x4. And.... no, I won't swap - thanks!

[@JonnybandthebigT7]

@@markallen435 I wouldn't either lol. Enjoy m8

[@MiniLuv-1984]

I want one!

[@L2SFBC]

Me too! I love it!

[@leveluplife8585]

Probably could run a narrower tire to save big at the pump if that's a problem he's noticing

[@alanjones8603]

Would be interesting to see how much better the normal/swb Hiace would be since the break over angle would be much better.

[@L2SFBC]

yes, maybe I can test one sometime!

[@L2SFBC]

Oddly enough the two are LWB and SLWB for super long wheel base!

[@Talasas]

Great setup! I wish I could tow a race trailer with it but 2.5t is a tall order.

[@L2SFBC]

1500kg isn't much, but there are some racecars and trailers that'd fit...

[@jasonhowe1697]

proof of concept though to you need up too 200,000 to develop safari kit to raiase its height so you can bush bash with and if you are 6 foot opr above internal cabin space would 7-8 feet in height to manage your Co2 needs

[@HDvids101]

Impressive video

[@Toubabou]

Toyota produces a full time 4wd Hiace for the Lesotho market

[@Fe_lix]

Yes, the "real" Hiace H200 in cab-over design is still produced in parallel of the H300 for many countries.

[@DiscoFang]

New Zealand gets a lot of used imports of them from Japan.

[@SiyamthandaMsomi-oc2to]

The rear axle on the Hiace must be under the leaf springs

[@25052007]

So much better to be indoors no mossies stop anywhere and your ready.

[@reee_4067]

Good video, I was wondering why the volume started high and by offroad testing it was quite low.

[@rjl110919581]

THANK YOU FOR VIDEO

[@Heinz76Harald]

impressive

[@HuntingOldYella]

I think the bus 4x4 version is taller

[@matthewfinnigan3862]

It’s a great option but the ground clearance doesn’t look great. Would love to see it on the sand.

[@L2SFBC]

The ground clearance is okay. It runs 265/65/17, same as Fortuner or Hilux. The problem is ramp-over angle which is a form of clearance.

[@fabulousoffroaddesigns5080]

In North America we have the FORD Transit Trail.

[@L2SFBC]

Yes, seen that...think this is better!

[@fabulousoffroaddesigns5080]

@@L2SFBC in what way?

[@L2SFBC]

More offroad-capable. The Transit Trail does not have low range nor cross-axle locking differentials, or a centre lock. You get into tough terrain and the Hiace would outperform the Trail, no question.

[@fabulousoffroaddesigns5080]

​@@L2SFBCwell I get it, but the Ford Transit has an optional 4.10 rear end ratio option and a 4.70 first gear ratio. That is a 19.27:1 low ratio without a low range, in a detuned engine that can be tuned up to 650 HP and 550 ft/lbs of torque. For the type of trail they both should run, I don't believe the Transit Trail needs a low range. That being said, it uses F-150 transfer cases so swapping it to a Low Range one would not be hard. Other benefits are, it comes on 33" tires, has a rear e-locker, and fits a Ford Performance Parts Catalog front Torsen diff. It can also have swivel seats, overhead storage, and a high roof. I see that Andrew St. Pierre White is building a HiAce as well. Interesting to see how they stand up over time.

[@L2SFBC]

Fair points, but I'd still want low range for hills both up, and down. When I looked atg the Transit Trail there was no mention of lockers, maybe that's changed.

[@arefeshghi]

Does the Hiace come with AWD from factory? Because I though the AWD is controlled with a computer, and simply changing parts of drivetrain does not also bring the software (whereas it brings 4WD and difflock- physical aspects of such an upgrade)? The same with the 4WD traction control. How is this done?

[@L2SFBC]

The Hiace is 2WD, rear-drive from the factory. EnduroCo add a transfer case, front propshaft, diff etc to make it AWD and 4WD, ie drives all four wheels on and offroad, with a lockable centre diff.

[@Malc664]

Can this vehicle be lifted anymore? Because when going solo it would eliminate the need to winch as much.

[@L2SFBC]

Not much more no. But you won't often find terrain as tough as this in many places.

[@operation4wheelz]

Any cooling issues with? Looked like the winch was blocking some of the coolers?

[@L2SFBC]

Good question. Mark didn't report any.

[@markallen435]

I own the van in the video. Since fitting the bar, winch and lights there has been no change in operating temps.

[@operation4wheelz]

@@markallen435 nice.

[@edwardfletcher7790]

So it's a low budget, low ground clearance edition of the Bus 4x4 conversion ?

[@L2SFBC]

Seems to have less rampover and runs a smaller diameter tyre yes.

[@AD28197]

Don't know why Toyota stopped making 4wd Hiace models. The last one I remember was the Hiace 1998 model.

[@L2SFBC]

Lack of demand I suppose

[@thefluffernutters2572]

Tell us about your van, Umm But nice van and out of curiosity would an Arctic truck lift kit and suspension work on it???

[@alterglobo]

Beautiful. I would have picked the shorter wheel-base, and still raise it a bit further. A shame Toyota doesn't produce that version with the higher roof. Here in Bolivia people would pay a fortune to have this jewel.

[@AndrewKnight-ot3uf]

What brand is the bullbar, and where can you buy them from please. I've just taken delivery of a converted van but haven't been able to find a decent bar. Thanks..

[@L2SFBC]

EnduroCo

[@AndrewKnight-ot3uf]

Great thanks

[@jmrocks5060]

Will probably become more common with that Ute tax

[@L2SFBC]

facebook.com/RobertPepperJourno/posts/pfbid035a3nedCFpoq4cgqdeD9kWCqeTG8XRvAeHKE9QqsUSc9Xgg2E3z37RyrufRrXubDDl

[@mellowfellow918]

Delica is a contraction of delivery and car deli-ca.

[@L2SFBC]

Thanks didn't know that!

[@scottgenius9189]

The main reason for the snorkel is not for water crossings but to provide better and clean air flow

[@L2SFBC]

Really? What's going to do more damage to your engine, water ingestion or dust?

[@randomoldbloke]

You know you can get factory 4wd direct from japan ? On coil springs even they just don't have low range . I have a slwb 4wd 1996 model and it has about the same clearance. I just have a bed and some storage in the back but carry a 250kg power wheelchair in through the side door it does everything i need it to in the gulf country when it is not flooded

[@L2SFBC]

Is the payload the same, and can the centre diff be locked?

[@randomoldbloke]

They have a vicious coupling no central diff needed and standard payload no upgrade am sure i have a few hundred kg before I even get close

[@ianwatson3315]

Very capable van, rear lockers solve many things..complicated traction controls are for lazy people. Good old solid lockers are always the best option. Brakeover angle on that van needs another 40mm. Oh and a winch and you’ll get most places …

[@L2SFBC]

It has a winch. Agree re ramp angle, taller tyres would go well too.

[@Hazardbone]

100s of them here in central qld on the mine sites awesome looking rigs

[@kubibear2890]

cant you get the four wheel drive Mercedes sprinter?

[@L2SFBC]

Yes, but it's nowhere near as good an offroader.