Headspace Campers has rebuilt the Toyota HiAce as a 4x4 camper for remote travel on Australia’s rough roads and at campsites. Steel bumpers and a lifted chassis set it apart from the familiar commercial van. Two spare wheels are mounted on the rear doors.
The changes go beyond looks. The original rear-wheel-lead setup gives way to a full four-wheel-lead system with low-range gearing and locking differentials. Ground clearance reaches 300 mm, and the van rides on 35-inch Toyo Terrain tires. Its suspension is tuned for off-road use. Headspace Campers claims the upgrades put it ahead of the standard Toyota Land Cruiser in some respects.
The conversion features a 2.8-liter turbo diesel engine producing 177 hp, paired with a 6-speed Aisin automatic transmission. The 4x4 system, including its low-range gearing and locking differentials, is an aftermarket conversion, not a factory option. Multiple listings and commercial offerings point to a growing Australian market for HiAce 4x4 conversions, making these more than a one-off project.
The interior is just as practical. There’s a full-length bed measuring 1.45 by 2.70 meters, plus a pop-up roof that provides 2.3 meters of standing room. The finish is tough and no-nonsense. The kitchen slides out with an induction cooktop and sink. A fridge rounds it out, providing what’s needed for long trips away from towns. There’s also a full-size indoor shower with hot water, 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. Together, they give the van the range and self-sufficiency needed for days or weeks off-grid. For anyone heading deep into the Australian interior, that’s impressive.
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 work and customization involved.
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 pairs off-road capability with practical comfort, making 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 built it 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 targets those who want to see what lies beyond the end of the road.
