1996 Surf SSR-G KZN185

Stock #6469

The Hilux Surf is generally undeterred when tough terrain comes its way. This 1996 turbodiesel example produces gobs of torque, and feeds power through a robust 4x4 system with an optional center locker.

Exterior Overview

The Hilux Surf is generally undeterred when tough terrain comes its way. This 1996 turbodiesel example produces gobs of torque, and feeds power through a robust 4×4 system with an optional center locker. Surely this gets our enthusiasts going, but the Surf is also decent at hauling around the family comfortably while returning impressive fuel economy. It is also a handsome truck, with its refinished 16″ aftermarket alloys, OEM rainguards, rear privacy tint, an aggressive rear OEM spoiler, and factory rear tire swingarm. Aside from a few light dings, chips, and scuffs, the Desert Dune Metallic (1A5) paint is in good shape overall. Fresh off a recent service, including a timing belt and water pump replacement, this turn-key rig is offered with 179k verified and documented miles on the clock. That’s barely broken in for the legendary 1KZ engine, which has tons of life left in it! Ideal as a daily driver, cool campsite cruiser, or anything in between, this reliable, safe, and practical Japanese Classic leaves little to be desired

Interior Overview

Much like the exterior, the interior is durable, stylish, and well-equipped to carry you through the next few decades without fail. The Moonmist upholstery has handled the rigors of daily use and abuse quite well, and outside of some bolster wear on the driver’s seat, the remaining interior fabrics are in remarkably good shape for the age and mileage of this chassis. The grey vinyl dash shows well with no discernible defects outside of some minor adhesive residue. Positioned conveniently in the center stack, digital automatic climate control works in tandem with an optional Eclipse audio system to keep the cabin cool and supplied with tunes for any longer drives or impromptu road trips. As expected from a do-it-all SUV, power windows, power-folding mirrors, and power locks work as a charm, and the rear glass can power up and down to enhance visibility out of the rear. It even has a functional power moonroof to deliver an additional breeze through the cabin. An OEM field monitor allows those within the cockpit to monitor the outside conditions and direction of travel, if you happen to lose cell service. The rear bench prioritizes utility, and can 4-way recline for optimal passenger comfort or fold fully forward if you need to move around some larger cargo. The headliner and carpets are both in average shape, and outside of some wear to the touch points and an inoperable power rear under mirror, there isn’t much to gripe within this classy cabin.

Mechanical Overview

The 1KZ-TE powering this beast is fresh off an oil and filter service, and has completed a comprehensive service by one of our trained technicians. A new timing belt and water pump were installed which will save the new owner some funds down the road, and add some peace of mind for their first road trip. The 1K creates incredible torque and is linked to a stout automatic gearbox. Shifts feel effortless and the gearbox makes good use of the low end power provided by the 3.0L. The robust 3.0 can handle around-town jaunts or longer highway treks with ease, and is way more efficient than the petrol-powered N180s. If an off-road excursion is in the cards, selective 4WD can easily be deployed alongside an optional center-locking differential if the going gets rough. New shocks on the rear keep the suspension comfortable over road imperfections large and small, and we also replaced the front swaybar links for the Virginia state safety inspection. The ABS brakes bite down with confidence thanks to a brake fluid flush, and are further bolstered by new front rotors and pads. The power steering is light making parking this rig a snap and the platform tracks straight as an arrow thanks to a fresh alignment. New 31″ all terrain rubber has been freshly mounted at each corners and will last for tens of thousands of miles to come.

*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.