Toyota Hiace vs KIA Sonet
A proper head-to-head in South Africa — compare price, performance, fuel economy or electric range, safety and the details that shape long-term ownership.
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Toyota Hiace
2.5D Panel Van MT
Diesel
5-Speed Manual
Current
ZAR 680,900
ex-showroom
⚡ 75 kW
🔧 260 Nm
⛽ 11.8 km/l
VS
＋
Add a 3rd car
Decision summary
Toyota Hiace vs KIA Sonet: the short answer
Sonet holds a noticeable catalogue-index lead over Hiace.
Sonet starts ZAR 350,905 cheaper
Hiace from ZAR 680,900 · Sonet from ZAR 329,995
Five key differences
Exact selected derivativesSwipe sideways to compare every column
| Specification | Hiace | Sonet |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum Power | Hiace75 kW | Sonet85 kW @ 6300 rpm |
| Maximum Torque | Hiace260 Nm | Sonet143 Nm @ 4000 rpm |
| Engine Size | Hiace2494 cc | Sonet1497 cc |
| Combined Fuel Economy | Hiace11.8 km/l | Sonet16.9 km/l |
| Ground Clearance | Hiace175 mm | Sonet211 mm |
Strongest published figure in that row; no road-test winner is implied.
Independent editorial assessment
Hagalu editorial ratings
When a variant is selected, its rating out of five applies only to that exact derivative; a model-range review is not inherited. Editorial ratings are separate from the Specification Evidence Index out of 100 and are not customer ratings.
KIA Sonet
1.5 EX+ CVT
Hagalu editorial rating
Not yet rated
No complete editorial rating is published for this exact variant. This is not a zero score.
How Hagalu rates cars →Not yet rated means a complete review is not published; it does not mean the vehicle scored zero. Read the rating methodology.
What Each Car Gets Right (and Wrong)
Hiace
Strengths
- More powerful engine output
- Stronger published practicality figures
Weak Spots
- Lower fuel efficiency
- Fewer listed safety features
- Lower published ownership cover
Best suited to:
Published Performance
Published Practicality
Specification evidence leader
Sonet
Strengths
- Better fuel efficiency
- Stronger listed safety equipment
- Stronger published ownership cover
Weak Spots
- Less powerful engine setup
- Lower published practicality figures
Best suited to:
Published Efficiency
Which One's Right for You?
Hiace
- Buyers prioritising the stronger published powertrain figures
- Buyers prioritising the stronger published space and capacity figures
Sonet
- Buyers prioritising the lower published fuel or energy use
- Buyers prioritising the more complete listed safety equipment
- Buyers prioritising the stronger published warranty or service cover
Full Specs, Side by Side
Open a category, then swipe sideways to compare every column
| Spec | Hiace | Sonet |
|---|---|---|
| Model Introduced Year | 2019 | 2021 |
| Generation | H300 generation – front-engine layout replacing the previous cab-over design | First generation (BC3); launched globally 2020, SA 2021 |
| Facelift History | Current H300 generation launched in SA in 2019 – major redesign from rear-engine layout | 2023 model year update with revised front styling and expanded ADAS features |
| Facelift Launched Since | 2019 | 2023 |
| Facelift Version Ending | Current | Current |
| Body Style | Van | SUV |
| Color Note | White, Silver | Clear White, Aurora Black Pearl, Gravity Blue, Pewter Olive, Intense Red, Steel Grey, Glacier White Pearl (two-tone options on SX) |
| Dealer Stock Note | Base grade in the South Africa lineup | Flagship grade in the South Africa lineup |
| Model Year | 2026 | 2026 |
| Production Status | active | active |
| Segment | Van | SUV |
| Tare Mass Kg | 2080 kg | 1270 kg |
| Vehicle Type | Van | SUV |
| Spec | Hiace | Sonet |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 5380 mm | 3995 mm |
| Width | 1880 mm | 1790 mm |
| Height | 2285 mm | 1635 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2985 mm | 2500 mm |
| Ground Clearance (Default) | 175 mm | 211 mm |
| Ground Clearance (With Full Seating Load) | 125 mm | 190 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 l | 45 l |
| Boot/Cargo Space | 5200 l | 392 l |
| Kerb Weight | 2080 kg | 1270 kg |
| Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) | 3500 kg | 1710 kg |
| Payload Capacity | 1420 kg | 408 kg |
| Towing Capacity | 2000 kg | 1100 kg |
| Seating Capacity | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Rows | 1 rows | 2 rows |
| Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Minimum Turning Radius | 6.5 m | 10.4 m |
| Front Headroom | 992 mm | 990 mm |
| Rear Headroom | Not Applicable | 950 mm |
| Front Legroom | 1032 mm | 1030 mm |
| Rear Legroom | Not Applicable | 860 mm |
| Spec | Hiace | Sonet |
|---|---|---|
| Front Track Width | Not Applicable | 1544 mm |
| Rear Track Width | Not Applicable | 1536 mm |
| Front Suspension | MacPherson Strut | MacPherson Strut |
| Rear Suspension | Leaf Spring | Coupled Torsion Beam |
| Power Steering | Hydraulic | Yes |
| Steering Column | Tilt | Adjustable |
| Front Spring Type | MacPherson Strut | Coil Spring |
| Rear Spring Type | Leaf Spring | Coil Spring |
| Front Anti-Roll Bar | Front | Yes |
| Front Suspension Type | MacPherson Strut | MacPherson Strut |
| MagneRide Damping | Not Available | Not Available |
| Rear Axle Type | Leaf Spring | Coupled Torsion Beam |
| Rear Suspension Type | Leaf Spring | Coupled Torsion Beam |
| Suspension | MacPherson Strut | MacPherson Strut |
| Chassis Type | - | Unibody |
| Shock Absorber Type | - | Telescopic |
| Rear Anti-Roll Bar | - | Yes |
| Shock Absorbers | - | Telescopic |
| Chassis Material | - | Unibody |
| Spec | Hiace | Sonet |
|---|---|---|
| Load Bed Length | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Load Bed Width | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Climate Control | Manual AC | Yes |
| Power Windows | Front Only | Yes |
| Keyless Entry | Not Available | Yes |
| Push Button Start | Not Available | Yes |
| Wireless Charging | Not Available | Yes |
| Sunroof | Not Available | No |
| Electric Tailgate | Not Available | No |
| Automatic Headlamps | Not Available | Yes |
| Rain Sensing Wipers | Not Available | Yes |
| Boot Space Seats Folded | 5200 l | 1143 l |
| AC Type | Manual AC | Yes |
| Adaptive Dampers | Not Available | No |
| Climate Zones | Manual AC | 2 |
| Electric Folding Mirrors | Front Only | Yes |
| Engine Start Button Illumination | Not Available | Yes |
| Engine Start Stop | Not Available | Yes |
| Engine Start Stop Button | Not Available | Yes |
| Engine Warranty | 5 Years / 150,000 km | 7 Years / 150,000 km |
| Front Armrest | Not Available | Yes |
| Fuel Consumption Combined | 8.5 | 5.9 |
| Hill Start Assist | Not Available | Yes |
| Panoramic Roof | Not Available | No |
| Performance Data Logger | Not Available | No |
| Power Mirrors | Front Only | Yes |
| Push Button Start | Not Available | Yes |
| Rear Seat Split | Standard | Yes |
| Rear Wing | Not Available | Yes |
| Rev Matching | Not Available | No |
| Seat Type | Fabric | Leather Seats |
| Spare Wheel | Full-Size | Temporary Spare |
| Stabilizer Bar | Front | Yes |
| Telescopic Steering | Tilt | Tilt and Telescopic |
| Tilt Steering | Tilt | Tilt and Telescopic |
| Voice Command | Not Available | Yes |
| Voice Command Support | Not Available | Yes |
| Accelerator 0 100 | 18.0 sec | 11.2 sec |
| Air Conditioning | Manual AC | Yes |
| Battery Preconditioning | Not Available | Not Available |
| Bed Extender | Not Available | Not Available |
| Bottle Holders | Standard | 4 |
| Canopy Fitment | Not Available | Not Available |
| Centre Console | Not Available | Centre Armrest |
| Common Rail Injection | Common Rail Direct Injection | Gasoline Direct Injection |
| Diff Lock | Not Available | No |
| Difflock | Not Available | No |
| Digital Speedometer | Not Available | Yes |
| Front Diff Lock | Not Available | Not Available |
| Intelligent Battery System | Not Available | Not Available |
| Intelligent Keyless Entry | Not Available | Yes |
| Lift Gate | Not Available | No |
| Load Bed Cover | Not Available | Not Available |
| Load Bed Light | Not Available | Not Available |
| Load Bed Steps | Not Available | Not Available |
| Loadbox Depth Mm | Not Available | Not Available |
| Loadbox Length Mm | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Loadbox Rope Hooks | Not Available | Not Available |
| Loadbox Tiedown Brackets | Not Available | Not Available |
| Loadbox Width Mm | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Manual Aircon | Manual AC | Yes |
| Mirror | Front Only | Electric |
| One Pedal Driving | Not Available | Not Available |
| Passive Entry Start | Not Available | Yes |
| Powered Tailgate | Not Available | No |
| Rear Diff Lock | Not Available | Not Available |
| Rear Electric Motor | Not Available | Not Available |
| Regenerative Braking Levels | Not Available | Not Available |
| Remote Central Locking | Standard | Yes |
| Roof Rack Compatibility | Not Available | Yes |
| Sonar | Not Available | Yes |
| Sound System | 2 | 8 |
| Source Model Column | hiace | sonet |
| Sport Plus Mode | Not Available | Not Available |
| Sports Bar | Not Available | Not Available |
| Stabilizer Bar Front | Front | Yes |
| Steering Column Adjustment | Tilt | Tilt and Telescopic |
| Surround View Monitor | Not Available | Yes |
| Tailgate Damper | Not Available | Not Available |
| Tailgate Lock | Not Available | Not Available |
| Tow Bar Type | Not Available | Not Available |
| TPMS | Not Available | Yes |
| Trim Level | base | flagship |
| Unlocking | Not Available | Yes |
| Variant Role | Commercial utility derivative | Flagship / premium derivative |
| Vdc | Standard | Yes |
| Vehicle To Grid | Not Available | Not Available |
| Vehicle To Load | Not Available | Not Available |
| Walk Away Auto Door Lock | Not Available | Yes |
| Walk Away Lock | Not Available | Yes |
| Wireless Charger | Not Available | Yes |
| Intercooler | - | No |
| Engine Check Warning | - | Yes |
| Drag Coefficient | - | 0.34 |
| Roof Load | - | 50 kg |
| Steering Response | - | Normal |
| Skid Plates | - | No |
| Side Steps | - | No |
| Tyre Repair Kit | - | No |
| Seatbelt Pre Tensioner | - | Yes |
| Speed Limiter | - | Yes |
| Speed Alert System | - | Yes |
| Impact Sensing Door Unlock | - | Yes |
| Driver Display | - | Digital Cluster |
| Heads Up Display | - | No |
| Tachometer | - | Yes |
| Trip Computer | - | Yes |
| Multi Function Steering | - | Yes |
| Steering Mounted Controls | - | Yes |
| Rear Air Conditioning | - | No |
| Glovebox Cooling | - | No |
| Driver Seat Height Adjustment | - | Yes |
| Headrest Adjustable | - | Yes |
| Vanity Mirror | - | Yes |
| 12V Accessory Socket | - | Yes |
| Front Power Outlet | - | Yes |
| Rear Reading Lamps | - | Yes |
| Remote Engine Start | - | No |
| Remote Start | - | No |
| Door Ajar Warning | - | Yes |
| Fuel Lid Opener | - | Remote |
| Boot Opener | - | Remote |
| Heated Mirrors | - | Yes |
| Electric Mirror Folding | - | Yes |
| Remote Side Mirror | - | Yes |
| Auto Dimming Irvm | - | No |
| Auto Dimming Mirror | - | No |
| Rear Window Defroster | - | Yes |
| Rear Defogger | - | Yes |
| Follow Me Home Headlamps | - | Yes |
| Tail Lamps | - | Yes |
| Headlamp Height Adjust | - | Yes |
| Headlamp Washer | - | No |
| Roof Antenna | - | Yes |
| Aero Kit | - | No |
| Chrome Grille | - | Yes |
| Chrome Exterior Highlights | - | No |
| Ride Mode Selection | - | Yes |
| Service Reminder | - | Yes |
| Automatic High Beam | - | Yes |
| Glove Box | - | Yes |
| Electric Fold Indicator Mirrors | - | Yes |
| Power Socket 12v | - | Yes |
| Rim Size | Not Available | 215/55 R17 |
| Stabilizer Bar Rear | - | Yes |
| Sub Frame | - | Unibody |
| Rear LED Combination Taillights | - | Yes |
| Front Wiper | - | Yes |
| Front Wipers Type | - | Yes |
| Rearview Mirror Inside | - | No |
| Vanity Mirror Illuminated | - | Yes |
| Reading Lights Rear | - | Yes |
| Side Impact Bars | - | Yes |
| Boot Space Seats Folded | 5200 l | 1143 l |
| Spec | Hiace | Sonet |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2.5-litre Turbocharged Diesel | 1.5-litre Naturally Aspirated Petrol |
| Engine Code | Market-specific engine family | G4LC |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Petrol |
| Hybrid System | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Engine Displacement | 2494 cc | 1497 cc |
| Cylinders | 4 | 4 |
| Cylinder Layout | Inline | Inline |
| Valves | 16 | 16 |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 | 4 |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | Naturally Aspirated |
| Fuel System | Common Rail Direct Injection | Direct Injection |
| Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 13.0:1 |
| Bore | 82.0 mm | 75 mm |
| Stroke | 94.6 mm | 84.5 mm |
| Maximum Power | 75 kW | 85 kW @ 6300 rpm |
| Maximum Torque | 260 Nm | 143 Nm @ 4000 rpm |
| Combined Power | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Combined Torque | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Motor Type | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Number of Motors | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Motor Location | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Drive Type | RWD | FWD |
| Transmission | 5-Speed Manual | CVT |
| Top Speed | 150 km/h | 172 km/h |
| 0-100 km/h | 18.0 sec | 11.2 sec |
| Quarter Mile | 15.5 sec | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Drive Modes | Eco, Comfort, Sport | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Launch Control | No | No |
| Rev Limiter | 4800 rpm | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Power-to-Weight Ratio | 36.1 kW/tonne | 66.9 kW/tonne |
| Torque-to-Weight Ratio | 125 Nm/tonne | 112.6 Nm/tonne |
| Battery Capacity | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Usable Battery Capacity | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Battery Type | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Battery Voltage | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Electric Range | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| AC Charging Power | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| DC Charging Power | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| AC Charging Time | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| DC Charging Time | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Regenerative Braking | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Spec | Hiace | Sonet |
|---|---|---|
| Gearbox | 5-Speed Manual | Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT) |
| Drivetrain Layout | FR | FWD |
| LSD Available | No | No |
| Transfer Case | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Differential Lock | Not Applicable | No |
| Paddle Shifters | No | No |
| Final Drive Ratio | Not Applicable | 3.56 |
| Number of Gears | 5 | CVT |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Continuously Variable Transmission |
| Clutch Type | Not Applicable | Torque Converter |
| Gear Shift Indicator | Not Applicable | No |
| Gear Shift Type | 5-Speed Manual | Automatic |
| Drivetrain | RWD/ | FWD |
| 4WD Engagement | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| 4WD Hi Range | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| 4WD Lo Range | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| 4WD Selector | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Automatic Shift Paddles | No | No |
| Differential Type Front | Not Available | Not Available |
| Differential Type Rear | Not Available | Not Available |
| Front Differential Lock | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Gearbox Type | 5-Speed Manual | Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT) |
| Low Range Ratio | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Low Range | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Axle Layout | RWD | FWD |
| Rear Differential Lock | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Transfer Case Guard | Not Available | Not Available |
| Transmission Speeds | 5 | CVT |
| Engine Position | - | Front Transverse |
| Steering Turns Lock to Lock | - | 15.1:1 |
| Spec | Hiace | Sonet |
|---|---|---|
| Claimed Mileage | 11.8 km/l | 16.9 km/l |
| City Mileage | 10.0 km/l | 13.7 km/l |
| Highway Mileage | 11.5 km/l | 20.0 km/l |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 l | 45 l |
| Emission Standard | Euro 4 | Euro 6 |
| AdBlue Tank Capacity | Not Applicable | No |
| Auto Start Stop | Not Applicable | Yes |
| Real-world Mileage | 11.8 km/l | 16.9 km/l |
| Charging Port Type | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Charging Type | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Fuel Tank Litres | 70 | 45 |
| Combined Driving Range | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Electric Consumption | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Range Real World Highway | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Range Real World Mixed | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Low Fuel Warning | - | Yes |
| Spec | Hiace | Sonet |
|---|---|---|
| Airbags | 2 | 6 |
| ABS | Standard | Yes |
| Electronic Stability Control | Standard | Yes |
| Traction Control | Standard | Yes |
| Hill Descent Control | Not Available | Not Available |
| Hill Start Assist | Not Available | Yes |
| Child Safety Lock | Standard | Yes |
| ISOFIX Mounts | Not Available | Yes |
| Brake Assist | Standard | Yes |
| Tyre Pressure Monitor | Not Available | Yes |
| Engine Immobiliser | Standard | Yes |
| Alarm System | Standard | Yes |
| Central Locking | Standard | Yes |
| Seatbelt Warning All Seats | Not Available | Yes |
| Front Parking Sensors | Not Available | Yes |
| AEB | Not Available | Yes |
| BA | Standard | Yes |
| Brake Override System | Not Available | Yes |
| Curtain Airbags | Not Available | Yes |
| Driver Airbag | 2 | Yes |
| EBD | Standard | Yes |
| Engine Immobiliser | Standard | Yes |
| Hill Hold | Not Available | Yes |
| Passenger Airbag | 2 | Yes |
| Rear Cross Traffic Alert | Not Available | Yes |
| Seatbelt Pretensioners | Not Available | Yes |
| Seatbelt Reminder | Not Available | Yes |
| Side Airbags | Not Available | Yes |
| Stability Control | Standard | Yes |
| TCS | Standard | Yes |
| Blind Spot Monitoring | Not Available | Yes |
| Knee Airbag | Not Available | No |
| ABS EBD | Standard | Yes |
| Anti Theft Alarm | Standard | Yes |
| Driver Front Passenger Airbags | 2 | 6 |
| Driver Passenger Airbags | 2 | 6 |
| ESC With Traction Control | Standard | Yes |
| Side Impact Beams | - | Yes |
| Whiplash Protection | - | Yes |
| Pedestrian Detection AEB | - | Yes |
| Lane Change Warning | - | Yes |
| Fatigue Detection | - | Yes |
| Speed Alert System | - | Yes |
| Safety Rating | - | 5 |
| Spec | Hiace | Sonet |
|---|---|---|
| Cruise Control | Not Available | Yes |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | Not Available | Yes |
| Lane Keep Assist | Not Available | Yes |
| Lane Departure Warning | Not Available | Yes |
| Blind Spot Monitoring | Not Available | Yes |
| Rear Cross Traffic Alert | Not Available | Yes |
| Parking Sensors | Not Available | Yes |
| Rear View Camera | Not Available | Yes |
| 360 Degree Camera | Not Available | Yes |
| Autonomous Emergency Braking | Not Available | Yes |
| Driver Fatigue Alert | Not Available | Yes |
| Traffic Sign Recognition | Not Available | No |
| Auto Highbeam | Not Available | Yes |
| Auto Lights | Not Available | Yes |
| Auto Wipers | Not Available | Yes |
| EV Mode | Not Available | No |
| Rear Parking Sensors | Not Available | Yes |
| Reverse Camera | Not Available | Yes |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | Not Available | Yes |
| Park Assist | Not Available | Yes |
| Around View Monitor | Not Available | Yes |
| Blind Spot Warning | Not Available | Yes |
| Emergency Braking | Not Available | Yes |
| Forward Collision Warning | Not Available | Yes |
| Parking Distance Sensors | Not Available | Yes |
| Parking Sensor | Not Available | Yes |
| Pre-Collision System | Not Available | Yes |
| Rain Sensor Wipers | Not Available | Yes |
| Rear View Camera | Not Available | Yes |
| Reverse Camera Type | Not Available | Yes |
| Reversing Camera | Not Available | Yes |
| Surround View Camera | Not Available | Yes |
| Eco Mode | - | Yes |
| Sport Mode | - | No |
| Front Camera | - | Yes |
| Automatic High Beam | - | Yes |
| Spec | Hiace | Sonet |
|---|---|---|
| Seat Material | Fabric | Leather |
| Seat Adjustment | Manual | 8-Way Power |
| Heated Seats | Not Applicable | Yes |
| Ventilated Seats | Not Applicable | Yes |
| Steering Type | Hydraulic | Yes |
| Steering Adjustment | Tilt | Tilt and Telescopic |
| Ambient Lighting | Not Applicable | Yes |
| Folding Rear Seats | Standard | Yes |
| Front Armrest | Not Available | Centre Armrest |
| Front Shoulder Room | Not Applicable | 1380 mm |
| Rear Shoulder Room | Not Applicable | 1330 mm |
| Cup Holders | Standard | 4 |
| Rear USB Ports | 1 | Yes |
| Steering Wheel Material | Not Applicable | Leather |
| Instrument Cluster Type | Not Available | Digital |
| Interior Colour Options | 2 | Black |
| 60 40 Split Seat | Standard | Yes |
| Adjustable Driver Seat | Manual | 8-Way Power |
| Driver Seat Adjustment | Manual | 8-Way Power |
| Fabric Seats | Fabric | No |
| Passenger Seat Adjustment | Manual | 4-Way Manual |
| Armrest Front | Not Available | Centre Armrest |
| Driver Seat | Manual | 8-Way Power |
| Interior Courtesy Lamps | Commercial-focused interior, large cargo area, basic but durable fittings | 10.25-inch touchscreen (EX+), digital instrument cluster (SX), wireless CarPlay/Android Auto (SX), Bose audio (SX), ventilated front seats (SX), ambient lighting, 6 airbags all grades |
| Leather Accented Seat Trim | Fabric | Leather |
| Interior Colours | 2 | Black |
| Seat Fold Type | Standard | Yes |
| Seat Trim | Fabric | Leather |
| Rear AC Vents | - | No |
| Cooled Seats | - | Yes |
| Leather Seats | - | Yes |
| Adjustable Front Seat | - | 4-Way Manual |
| Driver Lumbar Support | - | Yes |
| Memory Seats | - | Yes |
| Front Headrest | - | Adjustable |
| Rear Headrest | - | Adjustable |
| Rear Armrest | - | Yes |
| Door Map Pockets | - | Yes |
| Boot Space Seats Down | - | 1143 |
| Seat Belt Warning | - | Yes |
| Armrest Rear | - | Yes |
| Rear Seat Centre Armrest | - | Yes |
| Interior Trim Colour | - | Black |
| Seat Adjustment Driver Backrest | - | Yes |
| Spec | Hiace | Sonet |
|---|---|---|
| Infotainment System | 6.8-inch Touchscreen | 10.25-inch Touchscreen |
| Apple CarPlay | Not Available | Yes |
| Android Auto | Not Available | Yes |
| Bluetooth Connectivity | Standard | Yes |
| Number of Speakers | 2 | 8 |
| Navigation System | Not Available | Yes |
| Digital Instrument Cluster | Not Applicable | Yes |
| USB Ports | 1 | 4 |
| Wireless Apple CarPlay | Not Available | Yes |
| Wireless Android Auto | Not Available | Yes |
| Voice Recognition | Not Available | Yes |
| Infotainment Screen Size | 6.8-inch Touchscreen | 10.25 |
| Infotainment Display | 6.8-inch Touchscreen | 10.25 |
| Rear Usb | 1 | Yes |
| Audio Speakers | 2 | 8 |
| Audio System | 2 | Yes |
| Display Audio | 6.8-inch Touchscreen | 10.25-inch Touchscreen |
| Front Rear USB Charge Ports | 1 | 4 |
| Infotainment Screen | 6.8-inch Touchscreen | 10.25 |
| Multi Information Display | Not Available | Digital |
| Connected Services | Standard | Yes |
| Voice Control | Not Available | Yes |
| Smartphone Connectivity | Not Available | Yes |
| Touchscreen | 6.8-inch Touchscreen | 10.25 |
| AUX Input | - | No |
| Wi-Fi Hotspot | - | No |
| Premium Audio | - | Yes |
| FM Radio | - | Yes |
| Radio | - | Yes |
| Head Up Display | - | No |
| Audio Controls On Steering | - | Yes |
| Steering Wheel Audio Controls | - | Yes |
| Audio | - | Yes |
| Spec | Hiace | Sonet |
|---|---|---|
| LED Headlamps | Not Available | Yes |
| Daytime Running Lamps | Not Available | Yes |
| Fog Lamps | Not Available | Yes |
| Roof Rails | Not Available | Yes |
| Alloy Wheel Design | Not Available | Alloy Alloy |
| Chrome Exterior Finish | Not Available | No |
| Rear Spoiler | Not Available | Yes |
| Exterior Colour Options | 2 | Multiple |
| Roof Type | Not Available | Standard |
| Body Type | Van | Sub-Compact SUV |
| DRL | Not Available | Yes |
| Fog Lights | Not Available | Yes |
| Front Fog Lights | Not Available | Yes |
| Led Headlights | Not Available | Yes |
| Auto Headlights | Not Available | Yes |
| Automatic Headlamps | Not Available | Yes |
| Daytime Running Lights | Not Available | Yes |
| Electric Blind Sunroof | Not Available | Standard |
| Exterior Colour Options | 2 | 7 |
| Exterior Mirror Electric | Front Only | Yes |
| Front Fog Lamps | Not Available | Yes |
| Headlamp Levelling | Not Available | Yes |
| Headlamps | Not Available | Yes |
| Headlight Type | Not Available | Yes |
| Headlights | Not Available | Yes |
| Load Bed Liner | Not Available | Not Available |
| Panoramic Sunroof | Not Available | No |
| Active Exhaust | Not Available | Not Available |
| Rear Spoiler | Not Available | Yes |
| Front Overhang | - | 800 mm |
| Rear Overhang | - | 695 mm |
| Wing Mirror Type | - | Electric |
| Rear Wiper | - | Yes |
| Led Taillights | - | Yes |
| Rear Fog Lights | - | Yes |
| Body Cladding | - | No |
| Door Handle Finish | - | Body Colour |
| Exterior Mirror Folding | - | Yes |
| Exterior Door Handle Colour | - | Body Colour |
| Spec | Hiace | Sonet |
|---|---|---|
| Approach Angle | Not Available | 21 deg |
| Departure Angle | Not Available | 35 deg |
| Wading Depth | Not Available | Not Available |
| Terrain Modes | Not Available | Not Available |
| Locking Differential | Not Applicable | No |
| 4WD System Type | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Hill Descent Control | Not Available | Not Available |
| Breakover Angle | Not Available | 16 deg |
| Energy Recovery Display | Not Available | Not Available |
| Front Skid Plate Guard | Not Available | Not Available |
| Ground Clearance Max | 175 mm | 211 mm |
| Ground Clearance Min | 175 mm | 211 mm |
| Off Road Descent Control | Not Available | Not Available |
| Off Road Traction Assist | Not Available | Not Available |
| Crawl Control | Not Available | Not Available |
| Rear Skid Plate Guard | Not Available | Not Available |
| Skid Plates Fuel Tank | Not Available | Not Available |
| Skid Plates Transfer Case | Not Available | Not Available |
| Terrain Mode Mud | Not Available | Not Available |
| Terrain Mode Normal | Not Available | Not Available |
| Terrain Mode Rock | Not Available | Not Available |
| Terrain Mode Sand | Not Available | Not Available |
| Terrain Mode Snow | Not Available | Not Available |
| Terrain Response System | Not Available | Not Available |
| Underbody Camera | Not Available | Not Available |
| Ramp Breakover Angle | - | 16 deg |
| Ramp-over Angle | - | 18 deg |
| Recovery Hooks | - | No |
| Underbody Protection | - | No |
| Approach Angle Deg | - | 21 deg |
| Departure Angle Deg | - | 35 deg |
| Spec | Hiace | Sonet |
|---|---|---|
| Tyre Size | 195/75 R16C | 215/55 R17 |
| Wheel Type | Not Available | Alloy Alloy |
| Front Brake Type | Disc | Ventilated Disc |
| Rear Brake Type | Drum | Drum |
| Spare Wheel Type | Full-Size | Temporary Spare |
| Wheel Rim Size | Not Available | 215/55 R17 |
| Brake Type Front | Disc | Ventilated Disc |
| Brake Type Rear | Drum | Drum |
| Spare Tyre | Full-Size | Temporary Spare |
| Tyre Type | 195/75 R16C | Radial |
| Autonomous Emergency Brake | Not Available | Yes |
| Brakes | Disc | Ventilated Disc |
| Cornering Brake Control | Standard | Yes |
| Fifth Wheel Prep | Not Available | Not Available |
| Handbrake Type | Not Applicable | Electronic |
| Hydraulic Brake Assist | Standard | Yes |
| Spare Wheel Size Type | Full-Size | Temporary Spare |
| Steering Wheel Cruise Controls | Not Available | Yes |
| Tyre Pressure Display | Not Available | Yes |
| Tyre Pressure Monitoring | Not Available | Yes |
| Wheel Material | Not Available | Alloy Alloy |
| Wheels | Not Available | Alloy Alloy |
| Front Brake Disc Diameter | - | 280 mm |
| Rear Brake Drum Diameter | - | 236 mm |
| Parking Brake Type | - | Electronic |
| Front Tyre Width | - | 215 mm |
| Rear Tyre Width | - | 215 mm |
| Wheel Diameter | Not Available | 215/55 R17 |
| Tyre Load Index | - | 102 |
| Tyre Speed Rating | - | H |
| Steering Wheel Audio Controls | - | Yes |
| Electric Park Brake | - | Electronic |
| Wheel Size Type | - | 215/55 R17 |
| Steering Wheel Phone Controls | - | Yes |
| Leather Steering Wheel | - | Leather |
| Steering Wheel Trim | - | Leather |
| Electronic Brakeforce Distribution | - | Yes |
| Auto Brake Hold | - | Electronic |
| Spec | Hiace | Sonet |
|---|---|---|
| Battery Warranty | 5 Years / 150,000 km | 7 Years / 150,000 km |
| Maintenance Plan | 3 Years / 45,000 km | 3 Years / 45,000 km |
| Service Plan Duration | 3 Years / 45,000 km | 3 Years / 45,000 km |
| Service Plan Distance | 3 Years / 45,000 km | 3 Years / 45,000 km |
| Service Plan | 3 Years / 45,000 km | 3 Years / 45,000 km |
| Alternator | - | Yes |
| Engine Oil Capacity | - | 4.5 l |
| Engine Oil Change Interval | - | 15000 |
| Service Interval | - | 15000 |
| First Service At | - | 15000 |
| Approx Service Cost | - | R3,000 per service |
| Anti-Rust Treatment | - | Yes |
| Service Intervals | - | 15000 |
| Spec | Hiace | Sonet |
|---|---|---|
| Warranty Years | 3 years / 100 000 km | 7 Years / 150,000 km |
| Warranty Kilometers | 3 years / 100 000 km | 7 Years / 150,000 km |
| Roadside Assistance | 3 Years | 5 Years |
| Basic Warranty | 3 years / 100 000 km | 7 Years / 150,000 km |
| Roadside Assistance | 3 Years | 5 Years |
| Warranty | 3 years / 100 000 km | 7 Years / 150,000 km |
| Warranty Roadside Assistance | 3 Years | 5 Years |
| Anti-Corrosion Warranty | - | 5 Years |
| Spec | Hiace | Sonet |
|---|---|---|
| CO2 Emissions | 209 g/km | 138 g/km |
| Hybrid System Type | Not Available | Not Available |
| Fuel Octane Requirement | Diesel | 93 Octane |
| Euro Emission Standard | Euro 4 | Euro 6 |
| Idle CO2 Output | 209 | 145 |
| CO2 Emissions G Km | 209 | 138 |
| Variable Valve Timing | - | CVVT |
| Particulate Filter | - | No |
| Fuel Evaporation Control | - | Yes |
| Green NCAP Rating | - | 4 |
| Start Stop System | - | Yes |
| Noise Level | - | 67 dB |
| Spec | Hiace | Sonet |
|---|---|---|
| Real-world City Mileage Min | 9.5 l/100km | 11.6 l/100km |
| Real-world City Mileage Max | 12 l/100km | 15.1 l/100km |
| Real-world Highway Mileage Min | 8.5 l/100km | 18.0 l/100km |
| Real-world Highway Mileage Max | 10 l/100km | 21.0 l/100km |
| Owner Review Count | 7 | - |
| Spec | Hiace | Sonet |
|---|---|---|
| Ownership Role | Base | Flagship |
| Price Zar | 680900 ZAR | 469995 ZAR |
| Pricing Role | Current listed price | Current listed price |
| Starting Price | 680900 | 469995 |
| Starting Price Zar | 680900 | 469995 |
In depth: how these cars differ
This Hiace and Sonet comparison uses the exact derivatives selected above for South Africa. The catalogue index covers performance, efficiency, safety equipment, practicality and ownership cover only where comparable source-backed fields are present.
Performance index: Hiace 37 vs Sonet 36.
Efficiency index: Hiace 48 vs Sonet 65.
Safety-equipment index: Hiace 44 vs Sonet 93.
Practicality index: Hiace 71 vs Sonet 59.
Ownership-cover index: Hiace 43 vs Sonet 71.
These figures are Hagalu catalogue-comparison indicators, not customer ratings, crash-test scores, resale guarantees or a substitute for a road test. Each page shows its weighted source coverage beside the result.
Model imagery
Hiace and Sonet image comparison
Open an image for its full canonical file or visit the model page for the complete vehicle record.
Toyota Hiace
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KIA Sonet
View 8 more Sonet images
Specification Evidence Index
A transparent comparison of published catalogue fields. This is not a road-test score, owner rating or editorial review rating, and it appears only when every vehicle clears the same comparable-data threshold.
Evidence-index readout
Sonet leads by 15 points
Sonet holds a noticeable catalogue-index lead over Hiace.
Evidence leader
64
/100
Lead
15
points
Data
99%
source coverage
64
#1
Evidence leader
Sonet
99% source coverage
2 strong categories
Best at
Safety 93
Check
Performance 36
Performance
36
Efficiency
65
Safety
93
Practicality
59
Ownership
71
Leads by 15 points
49
#2
Hiace
84% source coverage
1 strong categories
Best at
Practicality 71
Check
Performance 37
Performance
37
Efficiency
48
Safety
44
Practicality
71
Ownership
43
Performance 24%
Safety 22%
Practicality 22%
Efficiency 17%
Ownership 15%
Category leaders
What moves the verdict
Performance
Hiace +1
Efficiency
Sonet +17
Safety
Sonet +49
Practicality
Hiace +12
Ownership
Sonet +28
Moderate difference in the source-backed catalogue index.
Why this score View full breakdown
Evidence-index leader
Sonet
Performance
36/100
Efficiency
65/100
Safety
93/100
Practicality
59/100
Ownership
71/100
Hiace
Performance
37/100
Efficiency
48/100
Safety
44/100
Practicality
71/100
Ownership
43/100
What the evidence means
Evidence index
KIA Sonet
leads the specification evidence index with 64 pts
vs 49 pts for Hiace
In Hagalu's specification evidence index, Sonet leads. However, Hiace may suit buyers prioritising different confirmed fields. Ultimately, the right choice depends on your driving priorities in South Africa.
Related comparisons
Continue with closely related South Africa models and comparable body styles.
Hiace vs Sonet questions
There is no universal winner. Use the comparison table to match the models and available derivatives in South Africa on price, safety equipment, space, powertrain and ownership cover. The category indicators summarise published catalogue data; they are not a road test or customer rating.
Compare the published consumption or mileage rows for the exact derivatives using the same unit and test basis. A catalogue figure is useful for like-for-like comparison, but traffic, speed, load, weather and driving style can change actual fuel use.
Compare only equipment explicitly listed for each derivative, including airbags, stability control and driver-assistance systems. Confirm the exact trim with the manufacturer, and treat any independent crash-test result separately because equipment and ratings can differ by market.
A reliable five-year total cannot be calculated from catalogue data alone. Add the exact purchase and finance cost, fuel or electricity, insurance quotes, scheduled servicing, tyres and expected resale value. Check whether the selected derivative includes a service or maintenance plan.
Use the seating, boot or load-space, ISOFIX and safety rows as a first check. Then test the exact cars with your child seats, passengers and typical luggage, because published dimensions do not show every access or comfort difference.
Compare the published power, torque and 0–100 km/h rows when they are available for both exact derivatives. Vehicle weight, gearing and power delivery also matter, so catalogue outputs alone do not establish real-world overtaking or response.