Head to head
Toyota HiAce vs Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Crafter
The Toyota HiAce is a commuter and chauffeur minibus van, diesel. The Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Crafter is a large panel van offered from 3.0t to 5.0t gvw, vw's rival to the sprinter and transit..
Last reviewed 9 November 2026
Specifications side by side
| Toyota HiAce | Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Crafter | |
|---|---|---|
| Payload | 975kg | 1061-1229 kg (Medium CR35, 3.5t); 881-1117 kg (Long CR35, 3.5t); 2352-2410 kg (Medium CR50, 5.0t) |
| Engine | 2.8-litre 4-cylinder turbodiesel (1GD-FTV) | - |
| Power | 177hp | - |
| Torque | 450Nm | - |
| Seats | up to 10 | - |
| Fuel tank | 70 litres | - |
| Load volume | - | 9.9-11.3 m3 (Medium); 14.4-16.1 m3 (Long); 16.4-18.4 m3 (Long Maxi) |
| Load length | - | 4855 mm (Long Maxi) |
| Towing capacity | - | up to 3000 kg braked (3.5t models); up to 3500 kg braked (5.0t CR50) |
Sources: Toyota HiAce, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Crafter. Figures vary by model year and options, so check with the supplier before you commit.
Buy or hire the HiAce if...
Toyota's long-running commuter van, converted by UK operators into a chauffeured minibus rather than sold to private buyers. Its 10-seat capacity and diesel range suit airport transfers and group chauffeur work more than everyday van hire.
Listed by
- Safe Solo Ltd - London
Buy or hire the Crafter if...
The Crafter's wide GVW range, up to a 5.0t CR50 derivative, lets it cover jobs that would otherwise need a 7.5t truck, and it is commonly chosen by fleets that also want a driver-friendly cab.
Full Crafter specifications →Common questions
What is the difference between the Toyota HiAce and the Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Crafter?
The Toyota HiAce is a commuter and chauffeur minibus van, diesel; the Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Crafter is a large panel van offered from 3.0t to 5.0t GVW, VW's rival to the Sprinter and Transit..
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