Toyota Hiace GL Toyota/HIACE P/HGG22 3.5L 6 Cylinders 13 seater 6AT

Highlights

• 7+ seat capacity with captain chairs
• Lowest depreciation in class
• 5-Star NCAP safety rating

Summary

This 2026 Toyota Hiace GL represents a rare opportunity to acquire a next-generation passenger bus with zero mileage, positioning it as a premier asset for both corporate transport and luxury family hospitality in the GCC. Equipped with the powerful 3.5L V6 engine producing 277 hp, this model moves away from the traditional under-powered commercial feel to offer a driving experience capable of effortless highway overtaking and smooth long-distance cruising. The white exterior is the single most sought-after color in the region, ensuring maximum heat reflection during peak summer months and guaranteeing the highest possible resale floor when it comes time to upgrade. As a Japanese-spec model, it offers a unique combination of build quality and specific features that differentiate it from standard regional baseline units, making it a standout choice for buyers who prioritize longevity and passenger comfort. This Hiace is particularly well-suited for the unique demands of the UAE and Saudi markets, where high-capacity, reliable transport is essential for bridging the distances between major cities. Given its 2026 model year, the vehicle provides several years of technological relevance and peak mechanical health, making it the most sensible long-term investment in the large-van segment today.

This Car vs Other 2026 Toyota Hiaces

While many 2026 models arriving in the market may already show the wear of early fleet operations, this specific Hiace GL is presented in pristine, unused condition, offering the buyer a true 'day one' ownership experience. In the GCC market, where annual mileage for passenger buses often exceeds 30,000 km due to constant airport runs and inter-city commutes, starting with a zero-mileage vehicle provides a significant buffer for future resale value. The white exterior is not merely a aesthetic choice; it is a tactical advantage in the Middle East, as it consistently holds value better than any other shade by reflecting solar heat and hiding the inevitable dust of the desert environment. Compared to other 2026 units that might be specified with the smaller diesel powerplants, this 3.5L petrol V6 is the preferred choice for those who value refined power and lower long-term maintenance complexity. This unit also benefits from the Japanese-specification interior finish, which often includes higher-grade upholstery materials and tighter assembly tolerances than versions destined for other global markets. For a buyer looking to secure a 2026 model, this specific listing offers the ideal balance of the right engine, the right color, and the most favorable starting point on the odometer.

GL vs Lower Trims

Moving up to the GL trim from the base commuter variants completely transforms the Toyota Hiace from a utilitarian worker into a professional executive transport. The GL package introduces significantly improved cabin insulation, which is a critical differentiator when driving on the high-speed multi-lane highways of the UAE, as it reduces road noise and allows passengers to converse easily. Unlike lower trims that feature basic plastic dashboards and manual controls, the GL adds premium touches such as high-quality dashboard inserts, a more sophisticated instrument cluster, and upgraded seating ergonomics designed for long-range trips. You also benefit from enhanced exterior styling, including chrome accents and color-coded bumpers that project a far more professional image for hotel or corporate use. Functional upgrades in the GL also include more versatile seating arrangements and better internal lighting, ensuring that every passenger experience feels premium rather than just functional. In the GCC resale market, GL trims are highly prized and sell much faster than base models, as buyers are willing to pay a premium for the added comfort and better cooling performance standard on this trim level.

Hiace vs Segment Rivals

The Toyota Hiace remains the undisputed leader in the GCC high-capacity van segment, consistently outperforming rivals like the Nissan Urvan and the Hyundai Staria in terms of long-term durability and mechanical simplicity. While competitors may offer flashier futuristic designs, the Hiace 3.5L V6 provides a level of cooling efficiency and engine reliability that is perfectly calibrated for the 50°C temperatures of a Gulf summer. The Hiace also boasts a much higher floor-to-ceiling ratio than its European rivals, making it easier for passengers to enter and exit, which is a key consideration for luxury transport services. Unlike some American counterparts that can feel overly bulky in tight urban environments like Deira or Riyadh’s old quarters, the Hiace maintenance of a manageable width makes it the superior choice for city navigation. Furthermore, the 277 hp petrol engine provides a significant performance edge over the smaller displacement engines found in many segment competitors, ensuring it never feels strained when fully loaded with 9+ passengers and luggage. This combination of Japanese engineering, high seating capacity, and regional suitability makes it the most logical choice for any serious buyer in this class.

Running Costs & Resale

Ownership costs for a Toyota Hiace in the GCC are among the lowest in the automotive world, thanks to a massive parts ecosystem and a service network that spans from every major city to the most remote desert outposts. The 3.5L V6 engine is a proven powerplant that requires standard 5,000 km or 10,000 km service intervals, which are incredibly affordable due to the abundance of qualified technicians and genuine Toyota parts. While European vans may face high depreciation and long waits for specialized components, the Hiace holds its value with remarkable tenacity, typically losing only 8-10% of its value annually—roughly half the rate of its luxury competitors. This vehicle is a 'liquid asset' in the local market, meaning it can be converted back to cash almost instantly due to high demand among fleet operators and private exporters. Fuel consumption for the petrol V6 is surprisingly efficient on the long, flat highways of the GCC, where the 6-speed automatic transmission allows it to cruise at low RPMs, saving fuel while keeping the cabin quiet. For those looking at a 3-year ownership cycle, the Hiace GL offers the lowest total cost of ownership in its segment, combining high reliability with an unmatched resale floor.

Performance & Capability

The heart of this Hiace is the 3.5-liter V6 petrol engine, which delivers a robust 277 horsepower and 351 Nm of torque, providing plenty of muscle for highway overtaking and heavy-duty climbing. Unlike the four-cylinder engines of the past, this V6 allows the bus to maintain high speeds effortlessly, making the long drives between Dubai and Muscat or Abu Dhabi and Al Ain feel surprisingly relaxed. The Rear Wheel Drive (RWD) configuration is a hallmark of the Hiace, providing the necessary traction and load-bearing capability to handle a full cabin of 9+ passengers plus luggage without compromising stability. The automatic transmission is tuned for smoothness, eliminating the jerky shifts often associated with commercial vehicles and ensuring cabin comfort remains high at all speeds. With a generous ground clearance, the Hiace is also capable of navigating the gravel access roads often found near construction sites or rural villas, adding a layer of versatility to its repertoire. The braking system has been upgraded for this generation, providing confident stopping power that is essential when navigating fast-moving highway traffic with a heavy load. This is a vehicle designed to work hard while delivering a performance profile that feels much more like a modern SUV than a traditional bus.

Comfort & Cabin

Inside the Toyota Hiace GL, the focus is squarely on passenger wellbeing and climate control, featuring one of the most powerful air conditioning systems in the industry. Multiple ceiling-mounted vents ensure that even the passengers in the back rows receive a direct blast of cold air, which is the single most important comfort factor for any vehicle operating in the GCC. The 9+ seating configuration is intelligently laid out to maximize legroom, allowing adults to sit comfortably during long-distance transfers without feeling cramped. The GL trim features high-quality fabric seating that stays much cooler than leather in the summer heat, while the cabin's insulation has been enhanced to keep out the external heat and road noise. Driver ergonomics have also been a priority, with a high seating position that provides an expansive view of the road, reducing fatigue during long shifts. The cabin also includes various storage compartments and cup holders, catering to the needs of passengers on the go, whether they are tourists or executive teams. Every detail of the cabin has been designed to survive the rigors of heavy daily use while maintaining a clean, professional, and welcoming atmosphere for all occupants.

Safety

The safety suite on the 2026 Hiace GL is comprehensive, moving far beyond the basic requirements of the commercial segment to include advanced active and passive systems. Standard features include Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and Traction Control (TRC), which are vital for maintaining composure on sandy or rain-slicked roads. The van is equipped with multiple airbags and a reinforced cabin structure that has earned high NCAP safety ratings, providing peace of mind for those responsible for transporting high-value clients or family members. Anti-lock Braking (ABS) with Brake Assist ensures that the vehicle can stop safely in emergency situations, even when carrying its maximum passenger load. Hill-start Assist Control (HAC) is also included, preventing the vehicle from rolling backward on inclines—a particularly helpful feature when navigating parking ramps in major shopping malls or hilly terrain. Toyota’s commitment to safety in this model ensures that it meets international standards, making it a reliable partner for companies that prioritize the security of their passengers above all else.

The bottom line

This 2026 Toyota Hiace GL is the gold standard for high-capacity transport in the GCC, offering an unbeatable combination of V6 power, legendary reliability, and the highest resale value in its class. For any business or large family seeking a brand-new, zero-compromise bus that will perform flawlessly in extreme heat for decades, this Japanese-spec listing is the smartest acquisition on the market.

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