Stock #5955
Stock#5955
When the pandemic hit, the overlanding scene absolutely exploded, too. Anyone who has looked at the market can find Promasters and Sprinters cresting a hundred grand for converted models, but honestly, they are a dime a dozen. If you desire a truly unique hauler, this 1997 4WD HiAce is it! Redone in a one-off bedlined Quicksand, this Toyota is set off by a 2" lift, an OEM bumper guard, larger optional mirrors and set of aggressive-looking IPF fog lamps. Aside from some light dings, the body is in good shape and this recently serviced transporter is offered with a mere 163k verified and documented miles. That's barely broken in for the legendary diesel engine, and this rig is turn key and ready to rock and would be great as a daily driver. Loaded with options, refined and reliable, it's easy to see why this go-anywhere Toyota is a top-tier Japanese Classic.
The cabin is spacious and filled with quality materials and power options. The view of the road ahead is incredibly clear, thanks to the cabover design. The short wheelbase also aids parking and low-speed maneuverability around the city. The dashboard lacks any cracking or fading and houses dual front SRS airbags. Optional equipment for the driver includes a power seat, an electric adjustable steering column, and a digital backlit gauge cluster. All these items work and daily driving is made even better by functional Pioneer audio and a digital dual-zone heating and cooling system. If you prefer more natural ventilation the side glass pops out, the front windows power down, and there are three sunroofs to vent, pop, or retract. Other power options included electric locks and a soft close side door. The seats are upholstered in a Cognac-colored cloth. Soft to the touch, the cloth lacks any major rips, stains, or tears. The middle row can swivel to face the rear and can also fold flat into a pseudo-sleeping surface when combined with the back row. The door cards, headliner, and carpets have withstood the past twenty-five years without sustaining major abuse, and it appears this van was cared for in a prior life. It even has the original owner's manual on board for the new purchaser to enjoy.
The mid-engine, four-wheel drive layout pays dividends as it relates to handling, braking, and stability. With its low center of gravity, this van is able to respond much more so to steering inputs than other nose-heavy V6 American minivans we're used to. Powering this rig is the reliable and frugal 1KZ-TE turbodiesel. The 2982cc mill is fresh off an oil and filter service and it starts up with the twist of a key, care of a new 12v battery. To keep unwanted contaminants out of the engine a new fuel filter was installed and the four banger runs tip top. It's connected to a Full-Time 4WD system and a smooth-shifting automatic gearbox. This Toyota accelerates impressively well for its size and can cruise comfortably at highway speeds. The Rancho suspension insulates well from small and large road imperfections and new upper control arms were replaced while it was up on our lift. A hub service was also performed, and the driveline is now as solid as it can get. The ABS brakes are confident feeling and the power steering is light yet on point. New 28" Falken tires are mounted and balanced on a set of refinished 15" aftermarket alloys. The new tires look mean and most importantly will last for tens of thousands of miles to come. We even performed a fresh alignment up on our rack!
*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.
