Model Guide
Daihatsu Hijet: U.S. Buyer's Guide
Hijet Truck, produced 1960–present. A verified, generation-by-generation guide to the Daihatsu Hijet — engines, drivetrains, U.S. import eligibility, and what to check before you buy.
The Daihatsu Hijet (Hijet Truck) is a kei truck / commercial family produced 1960–present. Daihatsu corporate history and official U-CATCH catalog verify generation changes and representative specs.
What sets it apart: Long-running commercial focus; numerous work configurations.
Documented engine history: 1990 example: 659cc; 1994 8th gen EF 660cc; 1999 9th gen 659cc DOHC representative spec. Representative chassis and generations include S82P/S83P (1990); 8th gen 1994; 9th gen from Jan 1999. Because Daihatsu Hijet spanned multiple generations and trims, KeiScout verifies the exact chassis, engine, and transmission on each specific vehicle rather than assuming one spec applies across the whole line.
Why U.S. buyers consider it: commonly a fit for farms, landscaping, property/facility use.
Quick answer
What is the Daihatsu Hijet, and is it worth buying?
Quick facts
Last verified: August 15, 2026- Manufacturer
- Daihatsu
- Model
- Hijet Truck
- Production
- 1960–present
- Vehicle type
- Kei truck / commercial family
- Engine notes
- 1990 example: 659cc; 1994 8th gen EF 660cc; 1999 9th gen 659cc DOHC representative spec
- Drivetrain
- FR/2WD and part-time 4WD depending on trim
- Transmission
- Manual and automatic depending on generation/trim
- Key chassis / generations
- S82P/S83P (1990); 8th gen 1994; 9th gen from Jan 1999
- U.S. import eligibility
- Use manufacture date, not model year, for U.S. 25-year eligibility
Confidence: HIGH. Specifications are intentionally qualified where trims and chassis differ.
Who should consider the Daihatsu Hijet?
Best for: Farms, landscaping, property/facility use.
This reflects the verified best-fit use cases in our dataset, not a performance rating. Confirm the specific vehicle's configuration and your state's rules before buying.
What is the Daihatsu Hijet?
Daihatsu Hijet is a kei truck / commercial family in the Kei class — Japan's smallest highway-legal vehicle category, capped by law on length, width, and engine displacement (660cc in the modern era). Within those limits, Daihatsu built Daihatsu Hijet for practical hauling and work use. Daihatsu corporate history and official U-CATCH catalog verify generation changes and representative specs.
Daihatsu Hijet generations
| Generation / era | Years | Representative chassis | Engine | Drive | Transmission | Confidence |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7th-generation late / 1990 spec | 1990 era | M-S82P / M-S83P | 659cc | FR / part-time 4WD | 4MT/5MT depending grade | High |
| 8th generation | 1994–1998 | Verify chassis by vehicle | EF 660cc | 2WD / 4WD variants | MT/AT variants | High |
| 9th generation | 1999–2014 truck platform era | Verify chassis by vehicle | 659cc DOHC representative | 2WD / 4WD variants | MT/AT variants | High |
7th-generation late / 1990 spec
1990 era- Chassis
- M-S82P / M-S83P
- Engine
- 659cc
- Drive
- FR / part-time 4WD
- Transmission
- 4MT/5MT depending grade
Official catalog confirms representative drivetrains and transmissions
Confidence: High
8th generation
1994–1998- Chassis
- Verify chassis by vehicle
- Engine
- EF 660cc
- Drive
- 2WD / 4WD variants
- Transmission
- MT/AT variants
Daihatsu says 8th gen debuted Jan 1994 with new EF 660cc engine and improved loading capacity
Confidence: High
9th generation
1999–2014 truck platform era- Chassis
- Verify chassis by vehicle
- Engine
- 659cc DOHC representative
- Drive
- 2WD / 4WD variants
- Transmission
- MT/AT variants
Jan 1999 redesign to new kei safety standard; representative size 3,395 x 1,475 mm
Confidence: High
- 7th-generation late / 1990 spec: Official catalog confirms representative drivetrains and transmissions. Source
- 8th generation: Daihatsu says 8th gen debuted Jan 1994 with new EF 660cc engine and improved loading capacity. Source
- 9th generation: Jan 1999 redesign to new kei safety standard; representative size 3,395 x 1,475 mm. Source
Representative specification — actual specifications vary by chassis and trim. Where a row reads "verify chassis," treat the figures as generation-level context, not a universal trim-level claim.
Daihatsu Hijet engine
Engines and transmissions changed across Daihatsu Hijet generations, so there is no single universal spec. Verified history: 1990 example: 659cc; 1994 8th gen EF 660cc; 1999 9th gen 659cc DOHC representative spec.
- 7th-generation late / 1990 spec
- 659cc · 4MT/5MT depending grade
- 8th generation
- EF 660cc · MT/AT variants
- 9th generation
- 659cc DOHC representative · MT/AT variants
How fast is a Daihatsu Hijet?
Short answer: there is no single top speed for the Daihatsu Hijet. KeiScout does not publish one universal figure because it is not something the verified dataset records at the trim level, and real-world top speed varies meaningfully from one truck to the next. As a Kei-class vehicle, the Daihatsu Hijet is built for practical low-speed hauling and utility work rather than sustained high-speed cruising.
What actually determines a given Daihatsu Hijet's top speed:
- Generation and engine (660cc-class three- and four-cylinder engines differ)
- Transmission and final gearing
- 2WD vs 4WD drivetrain
- Overall condition, tuning, and maintenance
- Tire size and inflation
- Load, terrain, and headwind
Mechanical capability is not the same as legal road use. Even where a Daihatsu Hijet can physically reach higher speeds, many U.S. states restrict Kei trucks from interstates and limited-access highways regardless of the truck's capability. Treat local/rural roads, property use, and highway use as separate questions.
For a specific vehicle — including questions like a particular 1997 Daihatsu Hijet's top speed — the honest answer depends on that truck's exact chassis, engine, gearing, and condition. We verify the drivetrain on each candidate rather than quoting a generic number.
Daihatsu Hijet reliability
Reliability on any imported Daihatsu Hijet is driven by age and upkeep, not reputation. Trim/configuration diversity is high; payload/body specs must be vehicle-specific. Focus your inspection on the areas below.
Mechanical simplicity
These are mechanically straightforward trucks, but every example is now decades old — condition and history matter far more than the badge.
Rust
The most consequential age issue. Inspect the frame, bed floor, cab corners, and rockers thoroughly.
Cooling system
Radiator, hoses, and water pump deserve close attention on aging engines.
Seals & hoses
Rubber components harden with age; look for weeping oil, coolant, and hydraulic leaks.
Drivetrain & suspension
Check for play, noise, and worn bushings; on 4WD trucks, confirm the system fully engages and disengages.
Brakes
Confirm condition and that replacement parts are available in Kei sizes.
Timing-related maintenance
Where applicable, confirm timing components have been serviced on schedule for the specific engine.
Pre-purchase inspection
An inspection before purchase is the single best predictor of ownership experience on any imported Kei truck.
Daihatsu Hijet 4WD
Documented drivetrain availability: FR/2WD and part-time 4WD depending on trim. Part-time 4WD variants.
- 7th-generation late / 1990 spec (1990 era) — FR / part-time 4WD. 659cc.
- 8th generation (1994–1998) — 2WD / 4WD variants. EF 660cc.
- 9th generation (1999–2014 truck platform era) — 2WD / 4WD variants. 659cc DOHC representative.
4WD hardware and low-range availability differ by generation, chassis code, and trim. Confirm the specific vehicle's drivetrain before purchase — we verify this on every candidate.
Common Daihatsu Hijet configurations
Kei trucks were offered in several body configurations, but not every configuration existed for every model, generation, or market. Treat the list below as the range to look for — we confirm what was actually available for a given Daihatsu Hijet chassis during your search.
Standard flatbed
The most common layout — an open cargo bed for general hauling.
Dump / tipper
A hydraulically tilting bed for loose material; availability varies by generation and trim.
Van / panel
Enclosed variants exist within several Kei families for covered cargo and equipment.
Specialty / work
Refrigerated, lift, and agricultural bodies were built for specific markets and eras.
Daihatsu Hijet parts availability in the U.S.
Verified parts picture for the Daihatsu Hijet: strong commercial ecosystem. In practice, routine maintenance parts are the easiest to source, while model- and generation-specific components are more often ordered from Japan or through specialist suppliers — sometimes with a wait. Always order against the exact chassis/model code rather than the model name alone.
Daihatsu Hijet parts vs Honda Acty and Suzuki Carry
| Model | Verified parts ecosystem |
|---|---|
| Daihatsu Hijet(this guide) | Strong commercial ecosystem |
| Honda Acty | Good enthusiast ecosystem |
| Suzuki Carry | Strong due to Carry/Every ecosystem |
These are verified ecosystem descriptions, not a ranking. Parts availability for any individual truck depends on its generation, chassis, and configuration.
Daihatsu Hijet vs Suzuki Carry vs Daihatsu Hijet
| Daihatsu Hijet | Honda Acty | Suzuki Carry | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Drivetrain | FR/2WD and part-time 4WD depending on trim | 2WD and 4WD depending on chassis/trim | 2WD; part-time 4WD available |
| Transmission | Manual and automatic depending on generation/trim | Manual; automatic availability varies by generation/trim | 1999 examples: 5MT; 3AT on selected variants |
| 4WD availability | Part-time 4WD variants | HA4 4WD; later HA7 4WD | DB/DB52 4WD variants |
| Parts ecosystem | Strong commercial ecosystem | Good enthusiast ecosystem | Strong due to Carry/Every ecosystem |
| Typical buyer / use | Farms, landscaping, property/facility use | Individual buyers, collectors, light utility | B2B utility, farms, landscaping, individuals |
Verified specification fields only — blank cells (—) mean the dataset does not record a verified value for that model, not that the feature is unavailable.
Is a Daihatsu Hijet good for work?
Based on our verified dataset, the Daihatsu Hijet is commonly a fit for farms, landscaping, property/facility use. Within Kei limits, it can be a practical, low-running-cost work vehicle for tight sites and short hauls.
Common work uses
- Landscaping and grounds crews
- Farms, nurseries, and agriculture
- Property and facility maintenance
- Campuses, resorts, and golf courses
- Warehouses and light in-plant hauling
- Private-property and light utility work
Know the limits
- 660cc-class engines and Kei payload limits suit light loads, not heavy-duty hauling.
- Highway/interstate use is restricted in many states regardless of capability.
- Cargo bed and cab size are compact by design — match the configuration to the job.
How much does it cost to import a Daihatsu Hijet from Japan?
There is no single universal price to import a Daihatsu Hijet. The auction or purchase price in Japan is only one line in the total landed cost — the all-in amount to get the truck from Japan to your driveway. The major components are:
Duty/tariff treatment depends on the vehicle's classification under the U.S. Harmonized Tariff Schedule and is not a flat rate for every vehicle. Freight, auction, inland, broker, and port charges are variable market costs — treat them as estimates and inputs, not fixed figures.
Is the Daihatsu Hijet legal in the United States?
Federal import eligibility is based on a vehicle's manufacture date, not simply its model year. Under the NHTSA 25-year rule, a vehicle is generally exempt from FMVSS import requirements once it is at least 25 years old — so as of this year, Daihatsu Hijet examples manufactured in 2001 or earlier may qualify, subject to EPA/DOT and other requirements. A truck built late in a model year can cross the threshold months after an otherwise-identical early example.
Use manufacture date, not model year, for U.S. 25-year eligibility.
Can I register a Daihatsu Hijet in my state?
Federal import eligibility does not guarantee you can title, register, or drive a Daihatsu Hijet on public roads. That decision is made state by state, and the rules vary widely — from full road use to case-by-case titling to outright restrictions.
Daihatsu Hijet buyer checklist
Model year & manufacture date
Check the build plate — the actual manufacture date (not the model year) drives federal 25-year import eligibility.
Chassis number
Confirm the chassis code matches the generation, engine, and drivetrain you expect.
Engine
Confirm the documented engine for the chassis; listen for smoke, noise, and cooling behavior at temperature.
Transmission (2WD/4WD)
Check clutch feel on manuals and shift quality on automatics; on 4WD trucks, engage and disengage the system and any low range.
Rust & corrosion
Inspect the frame, bed floor, cab corners, and rockers for rust and past repairs.
Maintenance history
Look for service records, timing-related maintenance history, and fluid condition.
Mileage
Read mileage in context of age, service history, and how the truck was used, not in isolation.
Cooling system
Inspect the radiator, hoses, and water pump — cooling neglect is a common issue on aging Kei trucks.
Bed & body
Assess the bed, tailgate, and any specialty (dump/lift/refrigerated) body for damage and function.
Tires & brakes
Kei-size tires and brake parts vary — check wear and confirm replacement availability.
Parts availability
Confirm routine and model-specific parts can be sourced before you commit, using the chassis/model code.
State registration rules
Verify your state's titling and road-use rules before buying — federal import eligibility is separate.
Expected landed cost
Estimate the all-in landed cost (vehicle, shipping, duty, port, domestic transport, state costs), not just the purchase price.
Intended use
Match the specific configuration and drivetrain to how you'll actually use the truck.
Documentation
Ensure export paperwork and import documents are complete and consistent.
Daihatsu Hijet for sale
Looking for a Daihatsu Hijet for sale?
KeiScout doesn't run a listings marketplace — so you won't find inflated inventory here. Instead, we search appropriate U.S. and Japanese sources for a Daihatsu Hijet matching your year range, drivetrain, configuration, budget, and intended use, and we verify import and title eligibility before you commit.
Looking for a Daihatsu Hijet?
Tell KeiScout the year range, drivetrain, configuration, budget, and intended use you're after. We'll search appropriate U.S. and Japanese sources for matching vehicles.
Need multiple Daihatsu Hijet trucks?
We source Kei trucks at fleet scale with matched, standardized configurations and one coordinated import process.
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Related questions
Are Daihatsu Hijet trucks legal in the U.S.?
How fast does a Daihatsu Hijet go?
What engine does a Daihatsu Hijet have?
Can a Daihatsu Hijet drive on the highway?
Are Daihatsu Hijet parts available in the U.S.?
Is the Daihatsu Hijet reliable?
Is the Daihatsu Hijet 4WD?
How much does a Daihatsu Hijet cost to import?
Is a Daihatsu Hijet good for work like landscaping or farms?
Daihatsu Hijet vs Suzuki Carry: which should I buy?
What should I inspect before buying a Daihatsu Hijet?
Daihatsu Hijet comparisons
Related KeiScout research
Sources
Manufacturer sources
- Daihatsu — Generation timeline and representative specs.
- Daihatsu U-CATCH — 1990 grades, drivetrains, transmissions.
Government source
- NHTSA — 25-year exemption runs from vehicle manufacture date.
KeiScout is a sourcing and research service. Vehicle availability, condition, pricing, import eligibility, title eligibility, and registration requirements vary by vehicle and jurisdiction. Verify vehicle-specific information before purchase. Last verified: August 15, 2026.
Keep researching
Last verified: August 15, 2026. Specifications reflect the verified dataset and are qualified where trims and chassis differ.