Toyota Hiace GL Toyota Hiace Hiroof 3.5L cylinder 6 Petrol Manual

Highlights

• 7+ seat capacity with captain chairs
• Lowest depreciation in class
• Genuine off-road rated

Summary

This 2022 Toyota Hiace GL represents a rare and highly sought-after configuration in the GCC market, combining the massive 9+ passenger capacity with a robust Four Wheel Drive system. Having covered just over 40,000 km, its mileage is significantly lower than the typical 25,000 km per year average for commercial or large-capacity passenger vans in this region. The white exterior is the gold standard for resale value in the Middle East, as it reflects the intense summer sun and remains the most popular choice for corporate and private fleets alike. While most vans in this segment are restricted to paved roads, this 4WD version offers unique versatility for tourism operators or large families who require access to sand or gravel locations. It stands out from rivals by offering Toyota’s legendary mechanical simplicity coupled with the more powerful 3.5L V6 petrol engine, ensuring it doesn't struggle even when fully loaded. The GL trim provides a more refined interior than the standard commuter models, making it a superior choice for long-distance travel between emirates. For a buyer looking for a near-new multi-purpose vehicle that holds its value better than anything else on the road, this low-mileage GCC-spec Hiace is an unbeatable prospect.

This Car vs Other 2022 Toyota Hiaces

When comparing this specific 2022 model to others on the market, the first thing that stands out is the odometer reading. In the GCC, a van of this size often serves as a primary transport hub, frequently racking up 50,000 km or more annually; at roughly 20,000 km per year, this unit has been used sparingly and maintains a much fresher mechanical profile. Most 2022 Hiace models available are the standard rear-wheel-drive variants, making this Four Wheel Drive version a legitimate rarity that commands higher interest. The exterior paint remains in excellent condition, benefiting from the white color's natural ability to hide fine desert dust and resist the fading effects of UV exposure. Furthermore, being a GCC-spec vehicle, it has been built with a high-capacity cooling system specifically designed for our extreme summer temperatures, unlike imported models from other regions. This translates to better long-term reliability for the engine and air conditioning components, which are often stressed to their limits in this climate.

GL vs Lower Trims

The GL trim is a significant step up from the base 'Panel Van' or 'Standard Commuter' variants, focusing heavily on passenger comfort rather than just utility. Inside, the GL features higher-quality seat upholstery and more substantial cushioning, which is vital for the 9+ passengers during long-distance trips from Dubai to Muscat or Salalah. One of the most critical upgrades in the GL is the enhanced climate control system, which features dedicated rear vents that are more efficient at cooling the large cabin volume quickly. You also get improved interior acoustics with additional sound-deadening material that reduces the road noise from the 3.5L engine, creating a much more premium environment. Exterior-wise, the GL trim often includes color-coded bumpers and chrome accents that elevate the vehicle’s appearance from a commercial tool to a professional executive transport. These additions are highly valued in the local secondary market, as they allow the vehicle to be used for high-end hospitality or VIP transport services.

Toyota Hiace vs Segment Rivals

In the GCC, the Toyota Hiace competes primarily with the Nissan Urvan and the Ford Transit, but it maintains a distinct edge in several key areas. While the Nissan is a frequent sight, it typically lacks the 3.5L V6 petrol power found in this Hiace, which is essential for maintaining highway speeds when carrying more than nine passengers. The Ford Transit offers a different European-style driving dynamic, but it cannot match the Hiace’s reputation for simple, bulletproof engineering that local garages across the UAE and Saudi Arabia can service with ease. The Hiace also features a more vertical side-wall design than many competitors, which maximizes shoulder room for passengers in every row, making it the most 'adult-friendly' cabin in its class. Additionally, the availability of a genuine Four Wheel Drive system in this trim is something very few competitors offer in a passenger-van configuration, giving this vehicle a massive advantage for regional adventure tourism or desert-border commuting.

Running Costs & Resale

The running costs for a 3.5L Petrol Hiace are remarkably predictable, which is why they are the backbone of GCC transport fleets. Real-world fuel consumption for this V6 engine stays efficient during long highway cruises between cities, though the Four Wheel Drive system and stop-start city traffic in places like Riyadh or Dubai will naturally increase consumption slightly. Service intervals are typically every 10,000 km, and because it is a Toyota, parts are available in almost every corner of the GCC, from major hubs to remote desert towns. This accessibility keeps maintenance costs the lowest in the segment, as you are never forced to wait for expensive imported components. Regarding resale value, the Hiace is practically legendary in the Middle East; it experiences the lowest depreciation rate in its class, often retaining up to 80% of its value after three years. As a GCC-spec model with low mileage and the desirable GL trim, this vehicle is expected to hold a significant premium over any non-regional imports or high-mileage alternatives.

Performance & Capability

Under the hood is a powerful 3.5L V6 petrol engine that provides 277 horsepower, a figure that ensures this van never feels sluggish, even with a full complement of passengers and luggage. The manual transmission offers the driver total control over power delivery, which is particularly useful when navigating varied terrain or steep inclines where the 4WD system of this model shines. This Four Wheel Drive capability is not just for show; it allows the Hiace to maintain stability on gravel tracks and light sand, making it capable of reaching locations that would be off-limits to a standard van. The ground clearance is generous for its class, allowing it to clear speed humps and uneven rural roads without the risk of underbody damage. On the highway, the V6 engine is surprisingly quiet at cruising speeds, providing enough torque for confident overtaking. Whether it is being used for cross-border journeys or daily urban shuttling, the performance is balanced between workhorse durability and passenger-friendly smoothness.

Comfort & Cabin

The cabin of the Hiace GL is designed with the 'Omotenashi' philosophy of hospitality, featuring a 9+ seating arrangement that doesn't compromise on individual space. The air conditioning system is a standout feature, engineered specifically for the 50°C summer peaks of the GCC, with powerful blowers that reach the very back row in minutes. Each passenger benefits from well-placed grab handles and a step-in height that makes ingress and egress easy for all ages. The interior layout is flexible, allowing for various luggage configurations if the full seating capacity isn't required for a specific trip. Large windows provide an airy feel and excellent visibility for sightseeing, while the cabin insulation has been upgraded in this generation to ensure heat stays out and the cool air stays in. The driver's cockpit is ergonomically designed for long hours behind the wheel, with clear visibility and controls that are easy to operate even in heavy traffic.

Safety

Safety in the 2022 Hiace GL is comprehensive, featuring a high-strength frame structure that provides a protective cocoon for all occupants. This model comes standard with dual front SRS airbags and an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) that is crucial for maintaining steering control during emergency stops on sandy or wet roads. Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and Hill-start Assist Control (HAC) are also included, which are particularly beneficial given the manual transmission and 4WD nature of this specific vehicle, preventing roll-back on inclines. The inclusion of Brake Assist ensures maximum stopping power is applied when a panic situation is detected. For those driving on the fast-moving highways of the UAE, the large side mirrors and elevated seating position provide excellent peripheral safety. Unlike many commercial-based vans that skimp on safety for the rear passengers, the Hiace GL ensures that the basic safety architecture extends throughout the entire cabin.

The bottom line

This is the ideal choice for a tour operator, a high-end shuttle service, or a large family needing a 4WD-capable van that will literally last a lifetime. With its low mileage and impeccable GCC pedigree, this Hiace GL offers the peace of mind of a new vehicle with the proven reliability only a Toyota can provide.

AI insights generated from market expert data. Always inspect the vehicle before purchase.