Body Color

Hot Lava (4R8)

Engine

1KZ-TE 3.0L TurboDiesel

Transmission

A/T

1996 SSR-V Hilux Surf

SOLD

Body Color

Hot Lava (4R8)

Engine

1KZ-TE 3.0L TurboDiesel

Transmission

A/T

Stock #6453

A special 4x4 Japanese Classic like this one, scores high marks for performance and practicality.

Exterior Overview

With the colors of fall arriving, it’s the perfect time for us to roll out this 1996 Hilux Surf. An eye-catching example, this Hot Lava (4R8) SSR-V is set off by wide refinished 16″ aftermarket alloys, quad exhaust tips, LED tail lights, OEM rainguards, and some classy privacy tint. Aside from a few light dings, chips, and scuffs, the body is in good shape and this beautiful rig is fresh off a recent service. Boasting a mere 128k verified and documented miles on the lock, this turbodiesel N185 is barely broken in. Reliable, powerful, and capable, these Surfs make for trusty year-round steeds. A special 4×4 Japanese Classic like this one scores high marks for performance and practicality. That’s why the Toyota die-hards give it their seal of approval!

1996 SSR-V Hilux Surf
1996 SSR-V Hilux Surf

Interior Overview

The cabin is in good shape and includes a number of manufacturer and aftermarket upgrades. A wood grain steering wheel immediately grabs your attention and contrasts nicely with the interior color palette. For those who may be safety conscious ABS is standard and the passenger benefits from an SRS airbag. Are you scared of reversing over the hood of a Sonata? The good news is that an integrated high-resolution backup camera will save you an expensive insurance bill. The driver can find the ideal driving position thanks to an adjustable steering column and adjustable lumbar support. The climate controls are within arms reach and the simple-to-use system features ice cold A/C and piping hot heat, ideal for year round use in seasonal climates. This cabin feels larger thanks to a panoramic sunroof. While it no longer retracts, it does seal out water and adds tons of natural light to the passenger cell. The seats are in good shape and are protected by fitted leather seat covers. They lack any major rips, stains or tears and are premium-looking. The rear seats 4-way recline and also fold forward to create a flat loading floor. Another worthwhile upgrade is the Pioneer touchscreen Bluetooth head unit. For those who want hands-free calling and some decent tunes, this unit works like a charm and even picks up domestic radio stations!  Power mirrors, locks, and electric windows work in typical Toyota fashion and even the rear glass rolls down to improve ventilation. The dashboard lacks any cracking or fading and is in good condition aside from some minor lifting by the top right portion of the glove box. The headliner and door cards are in good nick, and aside from some light carpet staining and an intermittently operating tachometer, it’s hard to critique this cabin too much! We even have included the OEM carpet mats to protect the carpets!

1996 SSR-V Hilux Surf
1996 SSR-V Hilux Surf

Mechanical Overview

The Hilux is a tough SUV, bolstered by its gutty turbodiesel and body-on-frame design. The 1KZ-TE under the hood is fresh off a recent service and churns to life with the twist of the key, thanks to two new 12v batteries. One of our trained techs replaced the weary old valve cover gasket with a new one, and we also took care of the half-moon seals while we were in there. To extract the maximum economy and performance out of the 3.0L a new engine air filter and fuel filter were installed. The four-banger is linked to a stout automatic gearbox that returns proper shifts and makes good use of the 1Ks low-end grunt. Power is put to the ground seamlessly thanks to new rear axle seals. The driver can select between 2WD and 4WD on the fly thanks to a selectable transfercase. New front and rear output seals were replaced on the T-case and it works just as it should. For low traction scenarios and beach drives, a low-range 4WD gearing is available, too. Overall the acceleration is impressive and this KZN185 sails up to highway speeds without breaking a sweat. It slows down decently, with new pads and rotors up front. On pavement, the Surf excels, and the multilink rear suspension is refined enough for daily use. The power steering is light and easy to articulate thanks to a freshly rebuilt pump. This midsize SUV is maneuverable and is stress-free to maneuver, even in a tight parking garage. The wheels are shod in new 33″ Yokohama rubber at each corner. The new tires quell road noise and most importantly will last for tens of thousands of miles to come. Turn key and ready to rock, this stylish Surf receives high marks for its looks, toughness, and practicality.

1996 SSR-V Hilux Surf
1996 SSR-V Hilux Surf

*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.