Stock #7259
Exterior Overview
This J95 Land Cruiser is a seriously unique rig. It’s got both bark and bite, thanks to a robust diesel drivetrain, yet is shockingly easy to maintain as it shares most drivetrain parts with US 4Runner models. It also looks killer, fashioned in a one-off Cement Grey (1H5)/Black paint. Set off by a 2″ Ironman lift, a factory front brushguard, OEM spoiler, dual amber fog lamps, and snazzy 16″ Level 8 six-spoke alloys, the cosmetics on this Prado are top notch, and there’s little to find fault with cosmetically. The 136k verified and documented miles on the ticker are also worth noting, as you’d be hard pressed to find an American 4Runner or GX that’s this cool while remaining lightly traveled. Toyotas like this are real winners through and through. With tough 4×4 underpinnings, a squeaky clean frame, and a versatile cabin, it’s no wonder these Japanese Classics eclipse pretty much every other rig on the road!
Interior Overview
Compared to a Hilux Surf or 4Runner, the cabin is much larger, and the accommodations are fantastic. The seating position gives the pilot a commanding view of the pavement ahead, and all in all this J95 feels right at home with behemoth SUV’s that are currently rolling off showroom floors. A factory field monitor is centrally located and includes a clinometer and compass to appease our off-road die-hards. Dual SRS airbags are standard as is a simple-to-use automatic climate control system. The air conditioning works like a charm and heat is piping hot, so this SUV can be used year-round. The factory audio was upgraded to a Pioneer touch screen unit and offers CarPlay and Bluetooth compatibility if you want some tunes for a road trip. The seats steal the show in the cabin, and three rows comfortably allow for the transport of 7 passengers. The grey cloth upholstery features period-correct patterned inserts. The cloth is in above-average shape and lacks any rips, stains, or tears of note. The second row can be folded forward and the third row can be tucked away or removed completely to allow for some extra cargo space. A power sunroof supplies the cabin with extra natural light and ventilation and the electric windows, door locks, and power-folding mirrors work like a charm. With all this equipment it’s no wonder why people love to daily drive these 95s, and this interior is definitely in good shape. That’s not to say the cabin is perfect as the rear cup holder is broken and the power antenna works intermittently. Either way, at 30 years young, this Prado has held up well, and it’s hard to find a cabin these days that is so resistant to daily use and abuse!
Mechanical Overview
It’s hard to find a powerplant as versatile as the 1KZ-TE. Toyota is known for engineering some incredible drivetrains, but this 3.0 is equal parts exciting and efficient! Fresh off an oil and filter service, we installed two new 12v batteries to help this turbodiesel crank over with haste. An engine air filter and fuel filter were replaced to keep the KZ healthy, and a coolant flush was also performed. This J95 hustles up to highway speeds, and an automatic gearbox is a perfect match for the diesel’s broad torque curve. Full-time 4WD is standard, and a center locking differential and low range can be engaged if your off-road endeavours get you in a bind. To shore up the drivetrain, we installed a new front right axle seal, and the transmission fluid was also exchanged for good measure. The Ironman suspension cruises predictably, and we installed new front lower control arms and lower ball joints to help this Prado ace state safety inspection. The power steering is easy to push around and this lifted SUV is surprisingly easy to maneuver around tighter confines. We installed a new left inner tie rod, and got this one up on the alignment rack to get dialed in afterwards. The ABS brakes grab predictably, and we installed new brake hoses all the way around and flushed the fluid to improve pedal feel. The aftermarket alloys look great against the cement paintwork, and are shod in good Falken all-terrain rubber. Knee deep in tread, they should get you where you need to go reliably, whether that be on or off the tarmac!
*California Residents: In order to register a Grey Market vehicle in the state of California then it will have to be made CARB compliant first. CARB certifications will have to be performed within the state. Depending on the vehicle and any existing modifications will affect the pricing. Typically CARB compliance will range between 5-10K. Additional information can be found on the California Air Resources Board website.
