Head to head
Toyota HiAce vs Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Transporter
The Toyota HiAce is a commuter and chauffeur minibus van, diesel. The Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Transporter is a medium panel van (t6.1 generation), vw's rival to the transit custom and vivaro..
Last reviewed 13 September 2026
Specifications side by side
| Toyota HiAce | Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Transporter | |
|---|---|---|
| Payload | 975kg | up to 1.28 tonnes (diesel); up to 1 tonne (electric) |
| Engine | 2.8-litre 4-cylinder turbodiesel (1GD-FTV) | - |
| Power | 177hp | - |
| Torque | 450Nm | - |
| Seats | up to 10 | - |
| Fuel tank | 70 litres | - |
| Load volume | - | 5.8 m3 (SWB); 6.8 m3 (LWB) |
| Load length | - | 3050 mm (SWB (with load-through bulkhead)); 3450 mm (LWB (with load-through bulkhead)) |
| Gross weight | - | 2800-3350 kg |
| Towing capacity | - | up to 2.8 tonnes (diesel) |
Sources: Toyota HiAce, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Transporter. 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 Transporter if...
The Transporter is positioned above budget medium vans on cabin quality and resale value, and stays under 2 metres tall on both wheelbases so it can access multi-storey car parks that rule out taller rivals.
Full Transporter specifications →Common questions
What is the difference between the Toyota HiAce and the Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Transporter?
The Toyota HiAce is a commuter and chauffeur minibus van, diesel; the Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Transporter is a medium panel van (T6.1 generation), VW's rival to the Transit Custom and Vivaro..
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