The Quirky 1996 Daihatsu HiJet Pickup
Let’s talk about this little gem of a truck. It’s a 1996 Daihatsu HiJet, a right-hand-drive pickup that just hit U.S. shores in January 2025 after being imported from Japan. Don’t let its petite size fool you; this baby is decked out with a power-operated liftgate, making it both a practical choice and a quirky conversation starter. It comes in a crisp white finish with gray upholstery to match, and under the hood, you’ll find a peppy 659cc inline-three engine, paired with a five-speed manual transmission and a dual-range transfer case. Yes, you read that right. Adventure awaits!
Key Features
- 12″ steel wheels
- Air conditioning
- Headache rack
- Fold-down bedsides
This HiJet is up for grabs with no reserve, courtesy of its selling dealer, and it comes complete with the manufacturer’s literature and a clean Maryland title. So, if you’ve been on the lookout for something truly distinctive on the road, keep reading.
Exterior Condition
Now let’s dive into the exterior. As mentioned, it’s finished in white and sports that handy power-operated liftgate, a headache rack to fend off the heavy lifting, and fold-down bedsides to enhance its utility. The condition of this little truck is well-documented with detailed images that can be browsed in the gallery below.
Wheels and Brakes
The 12-inch steel wheels are wrapped in 145-series Dunlop DV-01 tires, and the braking system consists of front discs and rear drums—nothing fancy, but it gets the job done.
Interior Comforts
Step inside, and you’re greeted by a functional yet comfy interior. The seating surfaces are dressed in gray patterned fabric, complemented by a color-coordinated dashboard and door panels. The practicality continues with all-weather floor mats, air conditioning to keep you cool, and, of course, a radio for the tunes.
Instrument Cluster
At the helm, you’ll find a two-spoke steering wheel framing a straightforward 140-km/h speedometer. You’ve also got gauges for coolant temperature and fuel level. The six-digit mechanical odometer shows a modest 43k kilometers (~27k miles), which is practically a toddler in the automotive world.
Engine Access and Maintenance
Let’s get technical for a moment. The heart of this HiJet is the 659cc SOHC EF-NS inline-three engine. It’s cleverly accessible via a removable panel in the cargo bed and flip-up panels beneath the seats. Convenient, right? An oil change was recently performed in January 2025, so you’re stepping into a truck that’s ready for the road.
Power and Performance
When it comes to power delivery, it’s nothing short of impressive for a compact pickup. The five-speed manual transmission ensures that you’re in control, while the dual-range transfer case gives you the option to choose how much traction you need—rear-wheel drive for those sunny days and all four wheels for when the going gets tough. This little truck doesn’t shy away from adventure!
Why the HiJet is a Standout
If you’re wondering what makes this 1996 Daihatsu HiJet stand out from the crowd, consider this: it’s quirky, it’s compact, and it comes with a dash of Japanese charm that you won’t find in your run-of-the-mill trucks. Whether you’re looking to haul some gear, need a vehicle for fun weekend outings, or just want something to make your neighbors do a double-take, this little HiJet manages to tick all the boxes.
To wrap it up, this 1996 Daihatsu HiJet is an intriguing blend of utility and charm, ready to hit the road and turn heads. With its solid features, practical design, and unique right-hand drive trait, it’s a worthy contender for anyone looking to stand out. Time to give this little workhorse a new home!