1996 V6 Land Cruiser Prado

Stock #7246

Based on the 3rd generation 4Runner platform, this 1996 J95 is easy to love, as it shares an abundance of mechanical parts with stateside Toyotas.

Exterior Overview

There’s a ton of reasons to want this Land Cruiser Prado over a modern SUV. New rigs have a huge footprint, are smothered in technology, and aren’t nearly as durable as this real-deal body on frame Toyota. Based on the 3rd generation 4Runner platform, this 1996 J95 is easy to love, as it shares an abundance of mechanical parts with stateside Toyotas. The 134k verified and documented miles on the clock make this one a real winner, too, and you’d be hard-pressed to find a used truck from the past decade that’s been cared for like this Prado. This lifted TX is also a looker, finished in Desert Dune Metallic/Grey (K03), and is set off by an Aiba Works front brushguard and skid plate, OEM rainguards, custom side graphics, and a set of stylish 16″ Tokyo Bray alloys. Prior Japanese records notate a replacement of the left side doors, and with no glaring imperfections apart from some minor chips, nicks, and dings, this is a killer Japanese Classic with a reputation that precedes itself. Perhaps one of the greatest SUV’s we never received stateside, there’s a lot to love about this Prado, and we think you’ll feel the same way!

Interior Overview

The interior has a lot going for it. Optional keyless entry grants entry to the cabin, and works like a charm. The 3rd row seating is a big draw, but the increased head and legroom are worth their weight in gold, too. It’s also packed with power amenities, useful and reliable equipment, and the grey cloth upholstery shows well with few stains, which is a clear indicator this rig was well cared for in a prior life. The middle and rear rows are versatile. You can flip the middle bench forward, and fold the rear jump seats off to the side to expand the cargo hold. Up front, the driver can get comfortable behind a tilt-adjustable steering column, and dual SRS airbags are standard for some added peace of mind. The center stack is easy to navigate, and automatic climate control works like a charm. A Kenwood touchscreen audio system lies adjacent to the HVAC, and features a modern interface with Bluetooth integration to stream your own tunes. The trim surrounding the switchgear has yet to succumb to unwanted cracks or fading. Accessible and primed for daily use, a full slate of power windows, locks, and power folding mirrors work as expected, in true Toyota fashion. The headliner is tight and tidy, and frames an operational power moonroof that can shove some natural airflow throughout the cabin. The carpets are in fine shape, and to sweeten the deal even more, we’ve included the original owner’s manual and a spare key. Apart from a broken HVAC vent to the right of the steering wheel, it’s hard to critique this cabin as a whole, and it was clearly cared for well in Japan!

Mechanical Overview

The engine under the bonnet should be a welcome sight for any Toyota enthusiast. The 5VZ-FE is one of the brand’s best designs, and it was offered in abundance here stateside, making parts availability and service options a walk in the park. A new 12v battery was installed, and helps this 3.4 turn over the first time, every time. The suspension, brakes, and steering components are also 4Runner-derived too! We’ve given this V6 a hearty refresh, and we installed new valve cover gaskets and half-moon seals to keep lubrication from the oil and filter service internal. The six-cylinder cranks over with haste, thanks to a new 12v battery, and we installed a new engine air filter and fuel filter for a bit of a tune up. New spark plugs were installed all the way around, and under full load, this 4×4 feels peppy, soaring up to highway speeds with haste. It also slows down just as quickly, thanks to four wheel disc brakes and ABS. An automatic gearbox keeps momentum moving forward, and if you choose to trudge off the beaten path, the transfer case allows for a center locking differential and low gearing to be selected. The suspension is comfortable and benefits from new front lower control arms and lower ball joints. This tackles some necessary preventative maintenance, and we also installed all new Eibach lifted suspension to bring this Prado up a couple inches. We refreshed the power steering system with a full rack rebuild. New seals were installed, and we replaced the inner and outer tie rods, bellows boots, and rack bushings, before it was thrown back in. Then, we flushed the system with fresh fluid, and popped this truck up on our alignment rack to get dialed in. Tracking dead straight, we went ahead and installed brand new 33″ Falken all terrain tires. Stylish, capable, and sure to last a long while, they make an already good truck drive even better!

*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.