Stock #7170
Exterior Overview
The 3rd generation 4Runner has officially reached heirloom status, and brand loyalists, mechanics, and off-road enthusiasts can typically agree this design was one of Toyota’s best. This unmatched durability is not without its pitfalls; most stateside examples have soared well above the 200-300,000 mile mark, and have been well loved in terms of condition. With squeaky clean cosmetics, a bevy of stylish factory upgrades, and a scant 103k miles on the clock, this 1996 Stellar Blue (8L7) Hilux Surf SSR-G is what dreams are made of. Powered by the same stalwart V6 found in our domestic examples, this trusty Toyota is barely broken in, and is fresh off a comprehensive service. This classically styled sports utility is set off by a factory optional spare tire arm, tire cover, OEM rainguards, and a sleek factory rear spoiler. Refinished 16″ aftermarket alloys round off the aesthetic, and save for a few chips and spots of paint fade, it’s hard to find fault with the cosmetics. A well-sorted SSR-G is becoming a tough find, and these trucks make for fantastic daily drivers, trail crawlers, or weekend car meet champions. However you use it, one thing’s for certain. This reliable, rugged, and rowdy SUV is a true Japanese Classic!
Interior Overview
The cabin is simple, spacious, and well equipped. This example was spec’d with a few rare options such as a large power moonroof and a useful reverse mirror that pops down from the rear spoiler to provide a view of the rear bumper. It includes a set of OEM carpet mats, too, which are in good nick, and a factory trash receptacle. Drivers of all sizes can find the optimal seating position courtesy of a tilt-adjustable steering column. The switchgear is close by, and the center stack features functional OEM audio and a simple-to-use automatic climate control system that fills the cabin with piping hot heat and cold air conditioning. If you prefer more natural ventilation, the side windows and rear glass can power down with the press of a few buttons. Power locks and power mirrors work too, making daily use more enjoyable. An OEM field monitor is located by the map lights. This neat little unit delivers information about the conditions outside the surf should you lose cell service. The seats are trimmed in a durable moon mist gray cloth. They are in above average shape and lack any major rips, stains, or tears. The pilot receives adjustable lumbar support, and rear occupants benefit from four-way reclining rear seat backs. The rear seats also split fold and tumble forward to create a large cargo area. The door cards are in good shape, and the headliner is nearly mint. The carpets have withstood the past quarter century without sustaining major abuse, and aside from the power folding feature on the mirrors no longer working, it’s hard to nitpick this cabin. The Japanese owner obviously took really good care of this special SUV!
Mechanical Overview
The Hilux Surf is a workhorse, blue-collar SUV. Its body-on-frame construction allows it to withstand rough terrain, and the 3.4L V6 is almost bulletproof. Fresh off an oil and filter service, the powerplant whirrs to life courtesy of a new 12v battery. A new engine air filter and set of spark plugs work in tandem to optimize fuel economy. The 5VZ-FE is linked to a strong automatic gearbox that shifts properly and makes good use of the quad cam’s midrange punch. The driver can toggle between 2WD and 4WD on the fly, and a low range and center locking differential can be utilized when traversing across loose sediment or rocky terrain. It gets up to interstate merging speeds without breaking a sweat and is a comfortable high-speed cruiser. The long wheelbase distributes bumps nicely, and one of our trained techs has replaced the front lower control arms and front lower ball joints, which are known failure points. When you need to reel this midsize SUV in from freeway speeds, you can rest assured knowing that ABS is standard. To keep stopping distances short, we replaced the worn front brake disc and pads with brand new units. The power steering is light yet direct for a truck, and a fresh alignment was performed here in our shop. This will maximize the life of the new 31″ Falken tires, and this truck tracks straight as an arrow. Turnkey and ready to roll, this terrific Toyota is one heck of a rig!
*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.
