Headspace Campers has turned a standard Toyota HiAce into a serious 4x4 camper. Outfitted for tough terrain and long trips, this van is ready for Australia’s remote tracks and offers practical comfort inside.
Steel bumpers, a lifted chassis, and two spare wheels on the back doors—this isn’t the usual Toyota HiAce. Headspace Campers has taken the familiar commercial van and rebuilt it for the kind of remote travel most vans would never attempt, aiming it squarely at Australia’s roughest roads and campsites.
The changes go far beyond looks. The original rear-wheel-drive setup is replaced with a full four-wheel-drive system, including low-range gearing and locking differentials. Ground clearance jumps to 300 mm, and the van rides on 35-inch Toyo Terrain tires. The suspension is tuned for real off-road use. Headspace Campers claims these upgrades even put it ahead of the standard Toyota Land Cruiser in some respects.
The HiAce conversion features a 2.8-liter turbo diesel engine producing 177 hp and a 6-speed Aisin automatic transmission, as confirmed by independent technical reviews.
The interior is just as practical. There’s a full-length bed (1.45 by 2.70 meters), a pop-up roof that gives 2.3 meters of standing room, and a tough, no-nonsense finish. The kitchen slides out and includes an induction cooktop, sink, and fridge—enough for long trips away from towns. There’s even a full-size indoor shower with hot water, which is rare in a van this size.
Fuel and water storage are built for long hauls: a 270-liter diesel tank and a 150-liter freshwater tank sit under the floor, giving the van the range and self-sufficiency needed for days or weeks off-grid. For anyone heading deep into the Australian interior, that’s not just a bonus—it’s essential.
The conversion starts at 18,950 Australian dollars (about 10,700 euros), but that covers only the camper build. Buyers need to supply their own HiAce, pay for the 4x4 conversion, and cover any extra options. The Premium version, with more features, starts at 27,590 Australian dollars (around 15,600 euros). A fully equipped, expedition-ready HiAce will cost more, reflecting the amount of work and customization involved.
Independent reports confirm that the 4x4 system, including low-range gearing and locking differentials, is not a factory option but a deep aftermarket conversion. The Australian market has a growing segment for such HiAce 4x4 conversions, with multiple listings and commercial offerings, indicating this is more than a one-off project.
The price is high, but demand for extreme campers is growing. As reported earlier, more buyers want vehicles that can handle real adventure and offer independence. The HiAce camper’s mix of off-road ability and practical comfort makes it a strong choice for travelers who see the journey as a challenge, not just a holiday.
This isn’t a van for casual weekends away. Headspace Campers has built something for people who need real capability and are willing to pay for it. In a market full of safe, city-focused vans, this Australian-built HiAce is aimed at those who want to see what’s beyond the end of the road.
