Stock #6017

It's no secret we bring in the Hilux Surf model in droves, and one might feel slightly overwhelmed picking the ideal one off our lot. This 1996 SSR-G has nearly every box checked, and has ticked just over 106k verified and documented miles over the years, which is a fraction of the robust diesel's typical lifespan. Finished in Stellar Blue over a custom Charcoal Grey Metallic (8L7) the exterior looks the part too! Sporting an OEM optional rear spoiler, factory rainguards, and a nifty spare tire carrier, the aesthetics leave little to be desired if you can see past a few stone chips and scuffs in the paintwork. The prior Japanese owner even took it upon themselves to install a custom graphics package which we think complements this N185's smooth bodylines nicely, and we've refinished the 16" aftermarket alloys to match as well! For use for anything from a dedicated camping rig to a pavement queen, it's hard to go wrong with this 3rd generation Japanese Classic. 

The interior of this SSR-G has a lot going for it. It's packed to the brim with amenities, a desirable power moonroof, and the Moon Mist upholstery is a fan favorite here stateside as well. Save for a rip and some typical bolster wear on the driver's bucket, the fabrics are no worse for the wear and the headliner and carpet beneath have resisted any serious damage over the years. Standard for 96, dual SRS airbags are present up front, and the driver gains both lumbar and steering column adjustment to dial in the ideal cruising position on longer road trips. In terms of power equipment, this Surf covers all the bases. Automatic climate control spits out cold A/C and hot heat on command, and a factory field monitor is positioned atop the windscreen to provide outside conditions at a glance. Sadly the audio has given up the ghost, but a US compatible unit should be an easy first upgrade. Additionally, all power windows go up and down smoothly, including the rear glass, and the locks and power folding mirrors do too. For those with rear passengers in tow, the rear bench can recline for some added comfort on long drives, while also folding forward should you need to set up a mattress when you arrive at the campsite. Privacy tint keeps any wandering eyes away from your precious cargo, and we've even retained the owner's manual and original maintenance booklet to further preserve the history of this classic Japanese SUV. Save for a non operational rear heater, there's little to complain about!

Under the hood, the 1KZ-TE steals the show yet again and is a consistent winner in terms of fuel economy, torque, and serviceability. We've taken care of the initial check in on this one, and after 2 new batteries and a fresh oil and filter service, it's ready to hit the road! While we were in there, the valve cover gasket was replaced, and a new diesel fuel filter was screwed on to keep any unwanted contaminants out of the 3.0. With the tune-up performed, this one drives like a champ and the low end torque of the turbodiesel is hard to ignore. That's not to say highway driving is a pain, as the automatic gearbox handles higher speeds with ease. Power is thrown to a selective transfer case, where 4WD and a center locking differential can come into play to escape any sticky situations. We replaced both rear trailing arms as well as the front swaybar links to get the handling back into compliance, and the ABS brakes have plenty of life left if you need to come to a screeching halt. Lastly, we ditched the tired Japanese rubber in favor of some meaty Falken all terrains. Not only does the 31" rubber look fantastic, it keeps road noise down and is sure to deliver tens of thousands of miles of grip 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.