Stock#5558

There is no denying the universal appeal of the KZN185 Hilux. They are tremendously capable off-road, and have an efficient and reliable drivetrain that is among the best Toyota ever designed. Unlike older SUVs, it also boasts a comfortable cabin with several options and standard safety features. This 1996 Hilux Surf is finished in a Stellar Blue over Metalic Gray two-tone and set off by subtle retro graphics, an OEM rear spoiler, aftermarket raingaurds, a rare OEM spare tire cover, and gunmetal 16" alloys. Fresh off a recent service, this rig is offered with only 145k verified and documented miles. For the JDM fan or off-roading enthusiast, this unique and determined truck is a Japanese Classic that gets as many looks as vehicles priced at twice its asking price. A true jack of all trades, this wonderful Toyota could be your year-round daily driver, weekend trail cruiser, or adventure mobile to explore the great unknown! 

The cabin is in above-average condition and has some optional factory equipment and a few upgrades. It was cared for in a prior life as evidenced by the OEM carpet mats, owners manuals, and maintenance booklets that were still in the vehicle upon its arrival from Japan.  The view of the road ahead is clear and commanding and the dashboard lacks any cracking or fading. Dual front SRS airbags are standard and are good to have on hand for some added peace of mind. The driver benefits from an adjustable steering column and lumbar support to stay comfortable on long hauls and a simple-to-use climate control system is within arms reach. The A/C blows cold and the Sony Bluetooth headunit upgrade was performed here in the states, saving a few shekels for the new owner. The audio quality is above average and these Surfs make for ideal road trip vehicles. In case your cell dies, the OEM Field Monitor will display your direction of travel, exterior temperature, and even the barometric pressure. The electric locks, windows, and mirrors all work as well, other than the side view mirror power fold function, and all make daily use enjoyable. The upholstery is also in great nick and lacks any major rips, stains, or tears. The door cards, headliner, and carpets seem to have withstood the past 25 years without sustaining major abuse. Other neat features include a power rear window for additional ventilation for your canine friends and reclining rear seats with four positions for the human ones. Our favorite is the electric rear under mirror which unfurls from the rear spoiler for a view of the rear bumper when parking. Stuff like this was never offered stateside, just like the incredible turbo diesel engine you will learn about shortly, and compliment the already top-notch N185 platform.

While the 1KZ-TE that powers these N185s is plenty powerful already, this particular one has some tricks up its sleeve. It's actually intercooled from the factory, unlike previous versions. This upgrade lowers EGTs and adds an additional 15 lb/ft of torque to the bottom line. Fresh off an oil and filer service, the 3.0L springs to life and idles with confidence. Recently performed maintenance work in our shop includes a new engine air filter and a new valve cover gasket. Mated to a slick-shifting automatic transmission the driver can select whether 2WD or 4WD is best, depending on their preference. Unlike American 4runners, this truck boasts a locking center differential. For use on sand and other loose surfaces, power can be locked fore and aft and the Hilux Surf is able to push through almost anything. If you need even more grip engage 4WD low and you should be set! The Surf can drive sustained on the highway with ease and is peppy around town. The suspension provides plenty of ground clearance and is predictable over uneven pavement. New front sway bar bushings were installed to give it a bit of a refresh and she drives quite nicely now. Very few squeaks and rattles filter through the cabin, which isn't something we can say about many older body-on-frame trucks. New front brake pads were also just installed by one of our trained techs so the driver can reel her in from higher speeds when necessary. The power steering is on point and power assisted and the wheels are all wrapped in new 31" Falken all-terrain rubber. These new tires look mean, but more importantly, 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.