Stock Number: 4373

Around here we jokingly refer to the 70 Series as the Japanese G Wagon. As the years have crept by SUVs have moved away from their original roots and become more of a luxury/status symbol, the G wagon being the epitome of that. Toyota's Land Cruisers made its name by being bulletproof with the ability to conquer whatever you could throw at it. As the years passed they too began to soften with more mainstream models like the 80 series being geared more towards trips to Costco than muddy back trails. Luckily Toyota made an effort to make sure there were some tough mudders still in the lineup by keeping the 70 series the beast that it is. Toyota has literally kept the 70 in production since 1984 largely unchanged for that reason. Our latest 1992 is a great example powered by a brooding 2L-TE turbo-diesel sending power to all four wheels and still has space for 6. Finished in Tuxedo Black really amps up the boxy styling and makes for one mean look. Depending on your state laws, all it's missing is to blackout the windows to really round out the two-tone black and chrome look. The paint itself looks really good for its age and has hardly any concerning blemishes to note. The same can be said for the body which looks like it didn't spend much time actually out in the rough country. Now riding on a new set of 31" off-road rubber properly fills up the wheel wells and won't need to be addressed for quite some time. It also has had a more modern set of LED taillights added which give it a slightly more modern flair.

Just because something is utilitarian doesn't mean it can't still come well equipped. While not as option laded as the 80 series, these didn't leave you out in the cold as the old 40s did. The striped interior definitely feels like the '90s yet somehow doesn't feel dated. All three rows are in good shape, free of any typical bolster wear or severe stains. The driver's seat does have a little bit of discoloration and there are a few tiny spots around, but nothing of real concern. Powered accessories are all around including all the basics like power mirrors, locks, and windows that feature the one-touch driver control. The gauges are all clear and legible and include a fun little indicator light for when the turbo is actually in boost. A large, optional, sunroof lets in light between the front captain's chairs and helps open up the cabin. Per usual it can be retracted for maximum effect and also tilts for ventilation. On the days where it's just too hot for windows, it does sport full climate control to make sure your afternoon commute isn't intolerable. There are also a few trick pieces that hint back at the utilitarian underpinning like the factory altimeter and interior/exterior thermometers. While most will replace the factory radio with something more US compatible it at least has one stock to make the transition easier.

What better combination could there be than a Toyota diesel and 4WD? With only 118K verified miles the equipped 2L-TE was amongst one of the first Electronic Fuel Injected diesel to come about. The EFI system meter fuel with great precision and succeeded in increasing the engine's efficiency. That gave us both a bump in torque and fuel economy meaning this big slab-sided SUV has no problem getting up to US highway speeds which are considerably lower back in Japan. Unlike many of the Kei vans that come through which really begin to struggle once you break 55mph or so. The automatic trans is a great choice for this seeing as most of us are looking for something we can daily drive and hit a dusty back road on occasion if we're bored. The trans engages without any fuss and runs through the gears with ease, however, don't expect lightning-fast shifts. Located on the dash, an electronic Hub-Lock switch ensures maximum traction in less than ideal conditions. The selective 4WD system does have a low gear as well, but as mentioned, it's awful tough to get this thing stuck. The TEMS adjustable suspension handles large and small bumps handily and has ample ground clearance. Aside from the new set of rubber we've also put in a fresh battery and a routine oil change. With its legendary heritage, exceptionally capable drivetrain, and timeless styling why wouldn't you love the Prado?

*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.