Stock Number: 4610

The Hilux is known for its legendary ruggedness. This 1994 Hilux Surf SSR-X has arrived stateside, and based on how this one looks, its only a short matter of time until its conquering American terrain. While fundamentally similar to the 4Runner that was sold here stateside the Hilux has a trick up its sleeve which is the 1KZ-TE turbo diesel that we never had an opportunity to enjoy here in the US. With only a mere 59K verified miles this one is a great OEM example. The only thing, aside from the radio, that has been changed was a full-color swap. Originally leaving the factory in the Prussian Red Pearl (25T) it has since been changed to a more subtle Midnight Black. The color change was well done with the only indication of the original shade being the engine bay itself. They went through and painted all the jambs so when you open the doors you'd never be the wiser. The particularly tick part is the fact they went and color matched the bumpers instead of the typical chrome centers. The color match really does give the truck a bit of an understated yet unique look. Due to the color change, the paint is in great condition, it appears safe to say that it was done relatively recently. Barring a few small clear coat scratches and some stone chips the paint looks great. The same can be said about the body as there's really nothing noteworthy aside from a door ding or two. Since these have such an overlap with the 4Runner if you wanted to go about making some changes like brush guards, suspension lifts, etc. are all incredibly easy to source here stateside. Then again, rolling on new 31" Falken Rubitreks already gives it a bit of a mean look to begin with.

The interior on these offer ample space for passengers and cargo. If you don't need to pile people in the back then you can flip the seats down flat to nearly double the carrying capacity. And for those trips to lowes the power back glass allows you to fill it with 2x4s without having to think twice. The factory seats are not only comfortable but also provide plenty of support to keep you firmly planted when the road disappears and things get a bit rocky. The condition of the front and rear seats are impressive, with virtually no noticeable bolster wear, stains, or rips. Frankly, the interior is one of the nicest we've seen in quite some time. Everything is present and accounted for like the power windows, mirrors, and locks. These come fitted with a proper climate control system and the A/C is functioning now that we've replaced the worn-out belt that it came in with. As mentioned previously, the only changeup is the Strada head unit which is functioning properly, however, you'll still probably want to switch it out for something more current. When you pop open the glove box you'll even find the original manual.

The North American market never received the venerable 1KZ-TE 3.0L diesel version on the Hilux Surf. While that was a real downside to the models sold in the states, the best power train option is equipped in this model, and can now be yours to experience first hand. Known for its durability and low cost of ownership, it is paired with selectable 4WD and a convenient automatic transmission these make spectacular daily drivers. Those in the offroad community are already aware of just how capable these are on and off the beaten path. The massive 4 cylinder is quick to fire up and even has an idle up switch for those dreary winter days ahead of us. Idle is as smooth as a huge four-cylinder can be, and the diesel clatter isn't terribly invasive in the cabin. The stout automatic transmission shifts well and even has a power mode to hold you in gear longer that way you stay right in the powerband. The diesel offers a tremendous amount of low down torque but still has plenty of power for highway cruising. Plus being a diesel it does turn out slightly better fuel economy, however, it is still an SUV at the end of the day so don't anticipate seeing Prius numbers. The steering and brakes are surprisingly light for something of this size and have no problems cruising around town. The stock suspension offers plenty of ground clearance and doesn't beat you to death over crappily paved roads. Finding a low mileage 4Runner stateside is near impossible these days, and even if you do it will cost a fortune just to be equipped with a far less impressive drivetrain. Now is your chance to jump on a proper offroader, even if it is just for making trips to work and Lowes.

*California Residents: In order to register a Grey Market vehicle in the state of California then it will have to be made CARB complaint 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.