Beyond Autos — Dubai, UAE
2026 · Van · Toyota
The 2026 Toyota Hiace GL AT delivers 277.6 horsepower and 351 Nm of torque from its 3.5L V6 petrol engine, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive. The 13-seat configuration spans four rows of fabric-upholstered seating, with independent front and rear air conditioning to manage passenger comfort across hot climates. Rear-wheel drive suits medium-distance group transit without the weight penalty of all-wheel drive.
Safety systems include dual front airbags, ABS, vehicle stability control, active traction control, tire pressure monitoring, and a rear-view camera. The 8-inch touchscreen integrates Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, while the 70-liter fuel tank supports extended routes. Tilt-telescopic steering and halogen headlights round out the driver-centered layout. This spec targets fleet operators, shuttle services, and multi-family importers across the GCC and re-export corridors.
The 3.5L V6 petrol engine produces enough torque to move 13 passengers and cargo at highway speeds without strain, though fuel consumption will run higher than smaller-displacement alternatives—a trade-off fleet buyers accept when payload and performance must align. The automatic gearbox simplifies driver fatigue on long routes, a priority for professional operators. Rear-wheel drive keeps the footprint compact for parking and maneuvering in congested urban areas common across GCC and African markets.
Interior planning reflects group-transport reality: fabric upholstery resists staining, four-row seating maximizes occupancy without sacrificing legroom, and split climate zones allow passengers toward the rear to adjust temperature independently. The tilt-telescopic steering column accommodates drivers of varying height, reducing fatigue on shift work. The 70-liter fuel tank balances range against total vehicle weight—critical for operators managing multiple daily routes.
Common buyer considerations center on maintenance costs and parts availability. The V6 engine and 6-speed automatic are Toyota's proven platforms, ensuring parts flow through established GCC and regional networks. Dual front airbags and electronic stability systems meet safety requirements in most import markets. The rear-view camera aids reversing in tight drop-off zones, and the 8-inch touchscreen with smartphone integration keeps navigation and communication accessible without aftermarket installation.
This Hiace suits re-exporters targeting East Africa and South Asia, where 13-seat vans command premium pricing; domestic GCC shuttle operators; and importers assembling fleets for Latin American and CIS markets where Toyota reliability commands customer loyalty.
