Toyota HiAce vs Ford Transit Custom
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular Vans compare on price, running costs, safety, and everyday livability.
Specifications and pricing correct at time of publishing. Prices are RRP before on-road costs unless stated otherwise. Always confirm with the manufacturer or dealer before purchasing.
Price Breakdown
The Toyota HiAce starts from $62,490 before on-road costs, while the Ford Transit Custom opens at $62,990. That makes the Toyota HiAce the more affordable entry point by $500.
Once you factor in stamp duty, registration, CTP insurance, and dealer delivery, expect to add roughly 8-12% on top of the RRP depending on your state. That puts estimated driveaway prices in the ballpark of $68,739 and $69,289 respectively.
Over 5 years, the running costs are nearly identical since both have similar efficiency.
Safety Rundown
The Ford Transit Custom holds a 5-star ANCAP rating vs 4 stars for the Toyota HiAce. Adult occupant protection scored 94% for the Toyota HiAce and 84% for the Ford Transit Custom.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The Toyota HiAce packs more ADAS features with 5 out of 10 key systems fitted, compared to 1 in the Ford Transit Custom.
Both include the essentials: autonomous emergency braking, a reversing camera. Airbag count is 8 in the Toyota HiAce and 4 in the Ford Transit Custom.
Feature Showdown
The Toyota HiAce features a 8-inch touchscreen, while the Ford Transit Custom gets a 8-inch display. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The Toyota HiAce stands out with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto that you will not find on the Ford Transit Custom. The Ford Transit Custom counters with Apple CarPlay. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The Toyota HiAce uses a Diesel producing 130kW and 420Nm of torque, sent through a manual to a RWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 8.5 seconds.
The Ford Transit Custom responds with a Diesel making 125kW and 385Nm, paired to a automatic driving the front wheels.
The Toyota HiAce has the clear power advantage at 130kW vs 125kW. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The Toyota HiAce measures 5,265mm long on a 3,210mm wheelbase, 290mm longer than the Ford Transit Custom at 4,975mm (3,300mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Ford Transit Custom generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 6200L in the Toyota HiAce and 6800L in the Ford Transit Custom, giving the Ford Transit Custom a 600L advantage.
For towing, the Toyota HiAce leads with a 2,000kg braked capacity vs 1,500kg. That 500kg difference matters if you regularly hitch up.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
13.2m diameter
Large
Based on 13.2m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
True Cost to Own
Based on 15,000km of annual driving, fuel costs roughly $2,109/year for the Toyota HiAce and $2,223/year for the Ford Transit Custom. That is a $114 annual difference in favour of the Toyota HiAce.
Estimated annual total: $2,109 (Toyota HiAce) vs $2,223 (Ford Transit Custom). The Toyota HiAce saves you roughly $114 per year in total ownership costs. Use our Fuel Cost Calculator to estimate based on your driving.
Warranty: 5 years / 999,999km (Toyota HiAce) vs 5 years / 150,000km (Ford Transit Custom). Both match on warranty length.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Toyota HiAce if: You want the lower entry price, prioritise performance, want lower running costs, need stronger towing, or prefer Toyota's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Ford Transit Custom if: You need more boot space, or prefer Ford's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Toyota HiAce takes 4 of 6 key spec categories and comes in at a lower price. The Toyota HiAce will save you roughly $114 a year in fuel. If boot space matters, the Ford Transit Custom has a clear edge. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Disclaimer: All information in this comparison was believed to be correct at the time of publishing (20 April 2026). Prices are manufacturer recommended retail prices (RRP) and may vary by state, dealer, and options. Driveaway costs include estimated on-road costs for Victoria. Fuel economy figures are WLTP/ADR combined cycle. Specifications can change without notice. Always verify with the manufacturer before making a purchase decision. CarSorted does not accept payment for recommendations.
Published by CarSorted Editorial Team · 20 April 2026
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