Toyota HiAce vs Renault Trafic
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 Renault Trafic opens at $59,990. That makes the Renault Trafic the more affordable entry point by $2,500.
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 $65,989 respectively.
Over 5 years, the running costs are nearly identical since both have similar efficiency.
Safety Rundown
Both the Toyota HiAce and Renault Trafic hold a 4-star ANCAP safety rating.
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 Renault Trafic.
Both include the essentials: autonomous emergency braking, a reversing camera. Airbag count is 8 in the Toyota HiAce and 4 in the Renault Trafic.
Feature Showdown
The Toyota HiAce features a 8-inch touchscreen, while the Renault Trafic gets a 8-inch display.
The Toyota HiAce stands out with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto that you will not find on the Renault Trafic. 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 Renault Trafic responds with a Diesel making 110kW and 340Nm, paired to a automatic driving the front wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 11.2 seconds.
The Toyota HiAce has the clear power advantage at 130kW vs 110kW. In the real-world sprint, the Toyota HiAce is 2.7s quicker. 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, 266mm longer than the Renault Trafic at 4,999mm (3,098mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Toyota HiAce generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 6200L in the Toyota HiAce and 5200L in the Renault Trafic, giving the Toyota HiAce a 1000L advantage.
For towing, the Toyota HiAce leads with a 2,000kg braked capacity vs 1,000kg. That 1,000kg 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 $2,052/year for the Renault Trafic. That is a $57 annual difference in favour of the Renault Trafic.
Estimated annual total: $2,109 (Toyota HiAce) vs $2,052 (Renault Trafic). The Renault Trafic saves you roughly $57 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 / 200,000km (Renault Trafic). Both match on warranty length.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Toyota HiAce if: You prioritise performance, need more boot space, need stronger towing, or prefer Toyota's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Renault Trafic if: You want the lower entry price, want lower running costs, or prefer Renault's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Toyota HiAce takes 4 of 6 key spec categories. The Renault Trafic will save you roughly $57 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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