Toyota GR Transforms HiAce Van with a Sporty Design | Carscoops

      Owners of the 21-year-old HiAce can accessorize it with various options from GR Parts and Modellista.

      The Toyota HiAce continues production in Japan for 2025, marking its 21st year in the lineup.

      Now, the van is offered with optional enhancements from GR Parts, primarily focused on aesthetics.

      Modellista also provides a selection of accessories, including aerodynamic components and interior enhancements.

      While Toyota Gazoo Racing may be gearing up to enlarge its lineup with additional sports cars, not every vehicle adorned with the GR badge is designed purely for handling and performance. The GR Parts division, recognized for adding sporty elements to more standard models, has recently implemented upgrades for the HiAce.

      Despite being largely unchanged since its introduction in 2004, the H200 generation of the HiAce remains available for the 2025 model year in Japan. The most significant update this year was the introduction of a high-spec trim known as Super GL Dark Prime S, though the standout feature for us was the optional styling enhancements from GR Parts.

      According to Toyota, the GR Parts Version I of the HiAce is “inspired by off-road design” and aims to be distinctive “in both outdoor environments and urban settings.” Conversely, the GR Parts Version II is characterized as “an even more thrilling interpretation of motorsports,” though the precise meaning is somewhat unclear.

      The primary distinction between the two versions lies in the design of the front bumper attachment and side skirts. Version I features a rugged bolt-on bumper insert equipped with integrated LEDs and a metal-style skid plate, complemented by side skirts resembling steps and GR-branded mudflaps available in red or black.

      In contrast, Version II showcases a sportier profile with a front splitter and less pronounced side skirt extensions. Owners also have the option of a deeper rear bumper equipped with a mini diffuser, a new set of 15-inch alloy wheels, and a license plate frame featuring GR bolts.

      The cost for the GR Parts upgrades amounts to ¥231,000 ($1,500) for the Version I body kit and ¥143,000 ($940) for Version II. For a complete upgrade package, an additional ¥242,000 ($1,600) is required for the wheels and tires, ¥33,000 ($220) for the mudflaps, and ¥15,510 ($100) for the anti-theft GR license plate frame.

      GR Parts represents the entry-level tier within the Gazoo Racing hierarchy, positioned below the performance-oriented GRMN, GR, and GR Sport models. Despite receiving a mild enhancement, the HiAce is not listed on the official Gazoo Racing website in Japan, indicating that Toyota does not regard it as part of the lineup, which includes another light commercial vehicle derivative – the rugged Hilux GR Sport.

      Modellista Also Offers Options for HiAce Owners

      In addition to the accessories available from the GR Parts catalog, enthusiasts of sporty HiAce vans can select from a range of Modellista upgrades.

      The body kits incorporate more prominent aerodynamic features and can be paired with a decal set, metal trim elements for the grille, new wheel styles, and more robust tailpipes. The interior can also be enhanced with wood accents, LED lighting, leather seats, and practical accessories like a portable air sleep mat or roof-mounted fishing rod holders.

      Lastly, Modellista provides chassis enhancements, including modified shocks for improved comfort and rear bracing for added rigidity. However, the van does not receive any performance boosts concerning the existing gasoline and diesel powertrains.