The Daihatsu Hijet is Japan's favourite kei truck
Jumbo models like this one feature generous seating, extra headroom and more cabin space
If you’ve flirted with the idea of a Japanese mini-truck but are concerned about cabin space, then look no further.
This example is a ‘Jumbo’ version of Japan’s best-selling kei truck, the Daihatsu Hijet. It was literally the first and original truck on the market in Japan and, over its 50-year reign, has garnered fans from all over the world.
Being a ‘Jumbo’ or ‘space-cab’ version means you receive an extra 10 cm of headroom and, more critically, another 15 cm of cabin length too. The seats inside a Hijet Jumbo model are larger and more comfortable than those found in a regular single cab.
The Hijet Jumbo’s drop-side tray measures up at 1.70 metres long by 1.40 metres wide, with a small bulkhead extension area that can take a limited but total length of 1.90 metres. The recommended carrying capacity is 350 kg.
It’s designed with outstanding ground clearance, an automatic transmission, and factory 4×4. Another talking point is its kerb weight of just 830kg – making it nimble, great on fuel, and fun to drive.
All of our Daihatsu Hijets come with certification and federal-based vehicle compliance, which enables them to be road registered in any state in Australia.
The 660cc three-cylinder engine is located in the middle of the vehicle in a longitudinal fashion, which creates a fantastic and ergonomic cab-over design. When the vehicle is not locked to 4×4, it is rear-wheel drive.
Huge amounts of steering lock create a fantastic turning circle of 3.6 metres, and your forward-facing vantage point makes it easy to place the truck in tight confines or up-and-around tracks on your property.
If you want a truck for the farm, work, or even play – the Daihatsu Hijet is an excellent choice.
The car pictured – 2020 Daihatsu Hijet Jumbo 4×4 Auto
This Daihatsu Hijet Jumbo was built in June 2020 and is finished in khaki metallic.
As an ‘Extra’ model, it benefits from traction control, air conditioning, power windows, remote central locking, and a chrome exterior pack. It’s powered by a 660cc three-cylinder ‘KF’ engine that’s proven to go the distance – even under duress. It features an automatic transmission with selectable 4×4 (otherwise RWD).
Extras for this example include a colour-coded styling kit consisting of a front lip, front flares, rear flares, and a colour-coded battery cover. The interior presents well and features rubber floor mats. Other small details include a rear exterior light mounted on the rear window guard and exterior weather shields.
The wheels are genuine Hayashi Racing Streets. The vehicle was serviced upon arriving in Australia, and we can fit an Australian double-DIN stereo with Australia Apple CarPlay/Android Auto for $999.
We also keep a wide holding of spare parts for repairs as well and have a service and repair network that extends from Sydney to the Southern Highlands.
We hand-pick each and every car in Japan after carefully inspecting them in the metal. We pride ourselves on corrosion-free, high-quality, low-ownership/low-kilometer examples.
Quick facts
- 2020 Daihatsu Hijet Jumbo 4×4
- 19,628 km
- Automatic transmission
- Selectable 4×4
- 1.4-metre wide by 1.65-metre long drop-side tray
- Colour-coded styling pack with front lip, front flares, rear flares and battery cover
- 15-inch Hayashi Street wheels
- Factory equipment includes power windows, dual airbags, remote central locking and air conditioning
- Factory safety equipment include auto emergency braking (city, low speed), traction control, LED headlights and fog lights, dual air bags
- Genuine factory options includes weather shields and tray-edge protectors
- 830kg kerb weight with payload rating of 400kg~
- 660cc Daihatsu ‘KF’ engine / Mid-engine (longitudinal)
- Japanese de-registration paperwork, auction paperwork and service history available.
- Price includes SEVS compliance
- Price includes three-months NSW registration
If you like the idea of a Kei truck but want more space – opt for for the Jumbo
