Zilizotumika Daihatsu Hijet Truck inauzwa (704 Matokeo)

The Daihatsu Hijet had its moments despite having a quirky design and limited power. The cabover microvan literally looks like a loaf of bread on wheels. However, it is a good vehicle if you are looking for something to haul cargo. There is also a pickup truck model goes by the same name.

The automaker had been manufacturing these kei trucks and microvans since 1960. It later merged with Toyota and the Hijet mini trucks became a part of Toyota inventory.

Daihatsu Hijet Review: A Comprehensible Run-Through

The Daihatsu 4x4 mini truck was sold in abundance back in the 90s due to its cheap price and cargo-hauling capacity. The vehicles are currently in their 10^th generation, which was launched in December 2004. But, the version limited itself into the van form only. The latest model of the truck version came out in September 2014.

If you are looking for a Daihatsu Hijet for sale, check out the detailed review:

Interior

The Hijet is a kei vehicle so there won’t be much space inside. The passenger cabin is perfect for four children but anyone too tall - possibly over 6 feet - will find it difficult to get behind the wheel. The space is at a premium whether it is the passenger cabin or the front row.

You cannot adjust the seats or the steering wheel, not a hopeful situation for large people. For them, sitting inside and getting in and out comfortably are out of the equation.

The pick-up has manual windows, head restraints, a glovebox, carpeted floor, and two-speed wipers. There is no airbag or central locking system. You have to arrange for your own entertainment as there is not even a cassette player or a radio.

The van version is more popular due to having some luxuries like reclining seats, a heated rear window, and a rear wash wipe.

Daihatsu Hijet Specs

The mini truck has a streamlined structure. The body is so compact that it is possible to park it in narrow parking spaces.

Considering the layout, the model is available in three variants - mid-engine, rear-wheel drive, and four-wheel drive. The transmission could either be a 4- or 5-speed manual.

The older Hijet vehicles used to have a 1.0L engine, which was later replaced by a 1.3L petrol unit coupled with a five-speed gearbox. The Daihatsu Zebra Espass - a van version of the Hijet Maxx (which is a pick-up truck) - was available with 1.3L and 1.6L engines. In January 2002, a 1.5L unit replaced the 1.6L model.

Currently, the 1.3L unit is the standard in Hijet mini trucks. The 16-valve four-cylinder unit yields 64bhp power and 73lb-ft torque at 2,800rpm. As the engine does not need to work harder like the previous 1.0L version, it saves fuel by about 4%.

A hybrid version of the truck debuted in 2002, equipped with a 660 cc engine. Based on the design of the existing non-hybrid Hijet Cargo, it exploited the Toyota hybrid technology. The electric motor of the vehicle is located in the middle of the gas-powered engine and the gearbox. The hybrid model saves 30% more fuel than the gasoline-powered version.

Driving Performance

When we are talking about driving control and smooth road performance, the Daihatsu Hijet has its limitations. The 1.3L engine can pump out some power but it does not help with having more control while driving. The truck acts a bit edgy when other large, heavy trucks pass it by.

Also, the truck starts acting up when on corners and wet surfaces, especially when not loaded. The steering is non-assisted rack and pinion. The absence of a power steering means there will be no added help when you need better steering effort.

The Hijet is one of the quietest vehicles, by the standard of a pick-up. If you are careful, driving it between 50 and 60 mph is almost silent. Although, there would be some noise when you are cranking it at the highest speed - which is slightly more than 80 mph.

Despite being a small vehicle, the structure and manufacturing of the truck are impressive. You will hardly hear any rattle and creak from the dropsides. However, the compact body and the absence of power steering and airbag do not instill crash-protection confidence.

The Price And Fuel Economy

You can purchase a good-conditioned used Daihatsu Hijet truck at less than $1,500. the van is also available at the same price range. However, the price can go up depending on the conditions and the year model.

The fuel consumption is standard as long as you are not using it for hauling heavy cargo. It is possible to get 20 to 21 miles/gallon when using it for the daily commute. Driving at slower speeds and using larger than stock tires will improve the mileage a bit. However, a 2004 5-speed Hijet 4x4 can get you something close to 40 mpg.

Reliability & Safety

The thin body panels are not going to withstand severe collisions. Also, they are prone to rust so you should be careful. If you want to purchase a used Daihatsu Hijet, pay attention to the bodywork.

The recommended servicing for the petrol engine is after every 6,000 miles. It means that you need to spend some money on regular maintenance.

Many dealers compensate for these downsides by offering a two to three years of warranty. In addition, there are likely to be additional anti-perforation corrosion warranty and RAC covering.

Want To Buy A Used Daihatsu Hijet Truck?

If you are going to buy a used Hijet truck, don’t forget to check everything. Especially, examine the dashboard’s fan override switch, coolant fluid, and the radiator behind the grill. Also, look inside the pressure cap under the pressure seat, header tank, and underside of the engine covers. It will be better to take one test drive because a used Hijet is likely to have issues that sellers won’t admit.