Stock #7083
Exterior Overview
The Hilux Surf is a high-quality SUV. The styling is universally loved, it is plenty capable, and known for top-tier reliability. This 1996 is also easy to maintain, as its engine was sold here in the US, powering 4Runners and Tacomas. Finished in a fresh coat of Merlin Purple (LZ3W), this 4×4 is set off by Bridgestone NR929 alloys, a 2″ lift, and an OEM spare tire carrier. Aside from a few minor imperfections, the body is in good shape, and this terrific Toyota is fresh off a recent service. Boasting a meager 75k verified and documented miles on the clock, this SSR-X is barely broken in. Perfect as a reliable daily driver, this rig would also make for a safe family ferry or wicked weekend wheeler! Tough, collectible, and ready to rock, this Japanese Classic is a special Surf!
Interior Overview
The cabin is in good shape, is ergonomic, and includes a few factory and aftermarket upgrades. A touchscreen Eclipse headunit is on standby to pipe in the tunes, and a simple-to-use auto climate control is located above. It pipes in cold A/C and piping hot heat so this Hilux can be enjoyed year-round. Pilots of all sizes can find the ideal seating position thanks to a tilt-adjustable steering column and adjustable lumbar support. Rear occupants also receive 4-way reclining seats for optimum comfort that four way recline, split fold, and can tumble forward to accommodate larger cargo. Power locks, mirrors, and power windows all work in typical Toyota fashion so that daily use is more manageable. Dual SRS airbags are standard, and the dash lacks any cracking or fading. There is, however, a light bit of distortion by the passenger airbag. The Moon mist colored upholstery is in good shape and lacks any major rips, stains, or tears. The same material can be found in the door cards, which are in equally good nick. The headliner and carpets have sustained the past 30 years without sustaining major abuse, and aside from a non-functional moonroof, it’s hard to complain about the cabin.
Mechanical Overview
This body on frame truck is built to last, and the same can be said for the 3RZ-FE powerplant. Fresh off an oil and filter service, the 2.7L springs to life with the twist of the key courtesy of a new 12v battery. A new engine air filter was installed so that the four-banger breathes freely, and one of our trained techs then took care of a few pesky oil leaks. A new valve cover gasket and distributor O-ring were installed so that the oil level stays full. The powerplant is linked to a stout automatic transmission that shifts like a champ. It sends torque through a selective 4WD system that includes a low range for extra assistance on loose surfaces. It gets up to highway merging speeds without breaking a sweat, and the driveline has been bolstered with a front differential fluid service. A comfortable cruiser at freeway speeds, it also slows down with confidence with its standard ABS. The long wheelbase distributes road imperfections well, and we have freshened the lifted suspension with new rear shocks, rear lower control arms, and rear upper control arms. The power steering is light yet communicative, and a power steering flush was performed to keep things that way. The alloys are wrapped in brand new 31″ Falken rubber. The new tires look mean, quell road noise, and should provide all the year-round grip required 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.
