Community Spotlight: Brett Wilhem’s 1992 Toyota Townace

Photo By: Brett Wilhelm

We’ve covered our “Why We Roam” series, but that’s not our only video series. The “Community Spotlight” series features Overland Expo attendees and their rigs. We like to showcase unique rigs with a special DIY flare, or they may just be a rare sight on the less traveled road.

Brett Wilhem’s 1992 Toyota Townace definitely fits the latter category. This “Winnebago from Japan” may be small, but it packs just as much functionality into a small space as you would expect from the larger, more popular van platforms. Plus, it costs a fraction of what its larger cousins demand on the secondary market.

With onboard hot water, a pop-top, plenty of sleeping options, a full kitchen, an in-vehicle shower, and true-four-wheel drive, it’s tough not to love this quirky JDM van.

READ MORE: Why We Roam: Episode 6

With a double-walled fiberglass shell, the Townace can ensure its occupants are warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Plus, the onboard diesel heater can easily keep the small interior space toasty when needed.

If the diminutive size has you feeling claustrophobic, don’t fear. Brett’s van also offers plenty of outdoor space with a large awning. In addition, cooking and clean-up duties aren’t relegated to inside the rig because the Townace has a nice slide-out sink that features hot and cold water.

Check out the video to learn more about Brett’s rig. Plus, you can visit our YouTube channel for more videos, including our “Why We Roam” series and the newly launched “Overland Essentials.”

Brett Wilhelms Toyota Townace
Image by Brett Wilhelm

Photo by Brett Willhelm

THE WORLD IS WAITING.

We keep our fingers on the pulse of the Overlanding world. Join the Overland News community and get our email on all things overland—including Overland Expo show updates, offers, and overland-specific articles.