Stock #5949
Stock #5949
Toyota's Hilux is a globally recognized marque. While most associate the nameplate with brutish, indestructible pickup trucks, enthusiasts in the market should shift their focus to this N130 Surf. Built on the same chassis, and boasting a turbo diesel powerplant and 5 speed manual transmission, this 2nd Generation 1992 Hilux Surf is a whole lot of truck for the money and a smart buy whichever way you look at it. Touting only 94k verified/documented miles, this one has a long life ahead for our stateside shores. Finished in Dark Blue Pearl (8E3) and accented by a polished factory brushguard, OEM rainguards, and a desirable rear spoiler and spare tire swingarm, the exterior has a lot of personality and fortunately has resisted any serious wear and tear over the years save for some expected rock chips and minor spots of clearcoat fade on the paint. Sporting freshly refinished alloys, this one is quite easy on the eyes, and it's easy to see with this aesthetic why we call these Surfs textbook Japanese Classics.
Following the exterior, the interior has a lot to brag about. For one, the sought after OEM Recaro seats and trim is no worse for the wear and this one also came with a neat factory surround sound system as well. Luckily, the audio works like a charm and any audiophiles will really revel in the sound quality. Additionally functioning are the power windows, locks, door mirrors, and power rear glass, a worthy feature for anyone looking to haul around furry four legged friends in the rear. Even the large OEM panoramic moonroof slides fore and aft without hesitation. The remaining interior materials are in good nick, save for a hairline crack atop the dash, and generally there isn't much to turn your nose up at, even the headliner and carpet have resisted any serious wear and tear over the years. As we charge headfirst into humid summer weather, it's nice to see Cold A/C works like a charm, and the adjacent USDM Sony audio system pumps out above average sound quality should you choose to handpick your own tunes over the turbo diesel's soundtrack. The rear bench is versatile and trimmed in the same cloth as the well bolstered Recaros up front. If you choose to prioritize cargo space, the bench can fold fully forward if you need to feed some 2x4's through the rear clamshell. Overall, it's clear this one was well cared for in a prior life, and if you can see past some wear on the passenger and rear seats, this classic truck has all the trimmings to make for a killer daily driver.
Under the bonnet, Toyota's 2L-TE is a tried and true unit, and a real jack of all trades mill which, combined with a smooth shifting manual gearbox makes for a rewarding driving experience overall. We installed 2 new 12v batteries here in house and it cranks over without hesitation! A fresh oil and filter service was performed, and we also installed a brand new engine air filter and fuel filter to keep the 2.4 chugging along without issue. The turbo delivers a friendly nudge down low, and the manual gearbox allows you to take full advantage of the powerband, from anything from around town jaunts to longer highway cruises. The suspension feels surprisingly good given its age, and the brakes can slow this rig down to a screeching halt if needed. The power steering is light as a feather, and the new Falken Tires on all four corners ensure you'll have plenty of grip and comfort when you need it most!
*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.
