The Appeal of the Fifth Generation Minicab Truck

A powertrain focused on low-speed torque and sturdy suspension

The fifth generation combines the easy handling unique to the old Kei standard (total length 3,295mm x total width 1,395mm) with the reliable load stability required in practical situations. The main engine is a 0.66L inline three-cylinder (3G83 series; NA), with a focus on the low-middle speed torque necessary for city driving and stop & go operations in farming areas. The transmissions available include 4MT/5MT and 3AT, with the option of selecting a "farming" version equipped with auxiliary gear changes and differential lock designed for rough terrains and steep slopes. The chassis features a simple & tough ladder frame with front struts and rear leaves, and a loading bed that opens on three sides on a low platform. The vehicle's lightness and responsive steering make it easy to place exactly where you want, which is one of its main attractions. It is also easy to maintain, with durable ignition, cooling, and drivetrain that can last for a long time with basic maintenance, making it a reliable tool on site.

Drawbacks of the Fifth Generation Minicab Truck

The speed and comfort, as well as the safety features, meet the standards of the time. There's also a certain compactness to the cabin.

Due to its cab over design and short wheelbase, you cannot expect the same high-speed straight-line stability and sound insulation as a passenger car. The wind noise and high engine revs can easily become noticeable during long-distance cruises, resulting in potential fatigue. The safety features are also only up to the standards at the time, with limited ABS and airbags. The older standard implies less collision safety than next-generation vehicles, and the cabin is snug. Tall drivers may find the range of seat position adjustments inadequate. Furthermore, cars equipped with a 3AT may have higher cruising revs, and may not match a 5MT in terms of fuel efficiency and quietness. When purchasing, it's advisable to thoroughly check for rust (frame, bed edges, and under the cabin), undercarriage bushings and shocks, and the condition of the brakes for peace of mind.

Rival of the fifth generation Minicab Truck

Suzuki Carry / Daihatsu Hijet / Honda Acty

The formidable rivals from the same era are the Carry, advantageous in the volume of distribution and affordable parts; the HiJet, with an exceptional overall balance; and the Acty, with strong traction when loading, due to the MR layout (engine located right behind the seats). The Minicab holds its position as a "steady and durable work vehicle", and the option of 4WD with a sub-transmission for various purposes, including non-paved and ridge roads, is appealing. If you're mostly delivering around town, the 2WD + 5MT will offer nimble performance; if you're in farms or mountainous areas, the 4WD and low-speed biased sub-transmission will provide gradual, manageable movement. The used price varies significantly between individual units, so be sure to assess based on the condition of the engine, undercarriage, and truck bed floor.

Specifications of the Fifth Generation Minicab Truck

Size: Overall length 3,295mm × Overall width 1,395mm × Overall height about 1,700–1,800mm Wheelbase: About 1,900mm Vehicle weight: Approximately 650–730kg (Varies depending on specifications) Engine: 0.66L Inline 3 (3G83 series/NA) Transmission: 4MT/5MT/3AT Drive system: FR (2WD), Part-time 4WD (with sub-transmission and differential lock settings) Suspension: Front strut/Rear leaf Fuel efficiency (10-15 mode): Approximately 14–17km/L (Varies depending on specifications and model year)

The Appeal of the Sixth Generation Minicab Truck

Improved usability through the new standard body, refinement, and maturation of the 3G83.

The model was fully updated in 1999 to conform to the new standards for mini vehicles, with a length of 3,395mm and a width of 1,475mm. This increased interior and cargo space, enhancing usability for daily loading and unloading and long-term operations. The 0.66L straight-3 engine (predominantly 3G83 series, naturally aspirated) continued to be used, and its control and emission measures were optimized to balance ease of handling and durability. Both 5MT and AT (primarily 3-speed, with 4-speed options depending on the model year) transmissions were available, and some models also allowed for the selection of part-time 4WD with secondary transmission and differential lock. Improvements directly relating to use cases, such as optimizing the minimum turning radius, enhancing rust resistance, and revising the sides and hook positions of the cargo space were gradually implemented. These features were refined over the model's long life to be "quiet, durable, and easy to use." There is also a wide variety of used vehicles available, making it easy to find options to suit your budget and needs.

Disadvantages of the Sixth Generation Minicab Truck

Significant specification differences - Verification of model year and grade is essential.

The lifespan of the model is long, so equipment such as AT (3AT→4AT), safety features (airbag, ABS), rust prevention specifications, and loading platform equipment vary widely with the year and grade. When purchasing, always identify the year, type, drive system, and equipment to make sure it suits your needs. The design is still cab-over, and expecting a comfortable and quiet ride like a passenger car would be a mismatch. If you drive long distances, it's realistic to aim for a "later-equipped model" with multistage AT, additional soundproofing materials, and improved seating. Also, regular ATF maintenance is important for automatic transmissions, and checking the operation system and rust on the undercarriage is crucial for 4WD models. Don't overlook the corrosion on the loading platform floor or any looseness in the tailgate hinges.

Rival of the 6th generation Minicab Truck

Suzuki Carry / Daihatsu Hijet / Honda Acty (later model)

The new standard generation's biggest competitors are the superior Carry in product strength and volume, the Hi-zet with high overall strength accumulated through annual improvements, and the Acty, excellent in road surface tracking with its MR layout. The Minicab is characterized by its "solid and easy-to-handle basic design + necessary and sufficient equipment," especially attractive for its off-road/farmland suitability with 4WD + sub-transmission, simple serviceability, and affordable price range. The wide distribution of parts also represents a significant advantage for foreign users, lowering the hurdle for maintenance and repairs. If you frequently perform work tasks, a 4WD + low-speed gear model is suggested, on the other hand, if you are mainly driving in the city, choosing a model with 2WD + 5MT or multi-stage AT will increase your satisfaction.

Specifications of the 6th Generation Minicab Truck

Size: Total length 3,395mm × total width 1,475mm × total height approximately 1,750–1,900mm (Varies based on features such as high roof) Wheelbase: Approximately 1,900–1,915mm Vehicle weight: Approximately 670–820kg (Difference depending on specifications) Engine: 0.66L Straight-3 (3G83 series / Mostly NA) Transmission: 5MT, AT (3AT transition to 4AT depending on the year model) Drive system: FR (2WD), Part time 4WD (Sub-transmission lock setting available) Minimum turning radius: Reduced for easy maneuverability (Optimized annually) Fuel efficiency reference (10-15 mode / Varies depending on year and specifications): Approximately 15–19km/L