Toyota HiAce vs Hyundai Staria-Load
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 Hyundai Staria-Load opens at $47,740. That makes the Hyundai Staria-Load the more affordable entry point by $14,750.
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 $52,514 respectively.
Over 5 years, the running costs are nearly identical since both have similar efficiency.
Safety Rundown
ANCAP safety ratings have not been published for both models yet. We will update this section when crash test results are available.
Feature Showdown
The Toyota HiAce features a 8-inch touchscreen, while the Hyundai Staria-Load gets a 8-inch display and 4.2-inch instruments. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The Hyundai Staria-Load counters with wireless charging that the Toyota HiAce does not offer. 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 Hyundai Staria-Load responds with a Diesel I4 Turbo CRDi making 130kW and 430Nm, paired to a 8-speed automatic w/ sequential manual driving the front wheels.
Power output is identical on paper, so the difference comes down to tuning, weight distribution, and suspension. 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, 12mm longer than the Hyundai Staria-Load at 5,253mm (3,273mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Hyundai Staria-Load generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 6200L in the Toyota HiAce and 4935L in the Hyundai Staria-Load, giving the Toyota HiAce a 1265L advantage.
For towing, the Hyundai Staria-Load leads with a 2,500kg braked capacity vs 2,000kg. That 500kg difference matters if you regularly hitch up.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
11.9m to 13.2m
Based on 13.2m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Based on 11.9m 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 $1,995/year for the Hyundai Staria-Load. That is a $114 annual difference in favour of the Hyundai Staria-Load.
Estimated annual total: $2,109 (Toyota HiAce) vs $1,995 (Hyundai Staria-Load). The Hyundai Staria-Load 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 / 160,000km (Hyundai Staria-Load). Both match on warranty length.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Toyota HiAce if: You need more boot space, or prefer Toyota's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Hyundai Staria-Load if: You want the lower entry price, want lower running costs, need stronger towing, or prefer Hyundai's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Hyundai Staria-Load takes 3 of 4 key spec categories and comes in at a lower price. The Hyundai Staria-Load will save you roughly $114 a year in fuel. If boot space matters, the Toyota HiAce 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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