Mileage

157k miles

Odometer Certified by ATL

Body Color

Desert Dune Metallic (1A5)

Engine

1KZ-TE 3.0L TurboDiesel

Transmission

A/T

1997 Hilux Surf KZN185

SOLD

Mileage

157k miles

Odometer Certified by ATL

Body Color

Desert Dune Metallic (1A5)

Engine

1KZ-TE 3.0L TurboDiesel

Transmission

A/T

Stock #6414

Perfect as a year-round hauler, this 4x4 beast is also civil over the tarmac and has room for five. It's our best selling platform for a bevy of different reasons!

Exterior Overview

Toyota’s terrific team of designers has been perfecting the Hilux Surf for over four decades. This 1997 is a wonderful example and is finished in a lovely Desert Dune Metallic (1A5). Set off by a 2″ lift, OEM refinished 16″ alloys, OEM rainguards, sport hood, and a chrome rear license plate garnish, this truck stands tall aside from a few light dings, chips, and scuffs associated with normal use. Fresh off a recent service, this diesel model is barely broken in, and sports a mere 157k verified and documented miles on the ticker. Perfect as a year-round hauler, this 4×4 beast is also civil over the tarmac and has room for five. Reliable, capable, and collectible, this Japanese Classic is our best selling platform for a bevy of different reasons!

1997 Hilux Surf KZN185
1997 Hilux Surf KZN185

Interior Overview

The cabin is in good nick and includes tons of impressive optional equipment. For instance, a large power sunroof retracts to improve ventilation, and lets lots of natural light into the passenger cell. Close by, the OEM field monitor displays info about the outside conditions and displays the direction of travel should you go off the grid. Drivers and passengers benefit from dual SRS airbags for added peace of mind, and ABS is standard, too. The dashboard lacks any cracking or discoloration and is trimmed in a soft touch grey vinyl. An adjustable steering column and adjustable lumbar support allow the driver to find the ideal driving position, and daily use is made more enjoyable thanks to functional power folding mirrors, power locks, and power windows. The A/C and heat work like a charm and the rear glass powers down for added air flow. The Moon Mist cloth is durable and lacks any major rips, stains, or tears. Comfortable on longer cruises, the rear bench can fold flat to accommodate larger cargo and also 4-way reclines for reward passenger comfort. Tunes are handled by a modern touchscreen Pioneer radio. It sounds decent and supplements the diesel soundtrack from under the hood. That’s not to say the cabin is perfect as we wanted to note the dashboard has some light distortion by the right side of the glovebox, and that the tachometer is inoperable. Still, at 25 years of age, it’s clear this cabin was cared for in a prior life.

1997 Hilux Surf KZN185
1997 Hilux Surf KZN185

Mechanical Overview

The 1KZ-TE powering this rig is one of Toyota’s most reliable, frugal, and powerful engines. It has a legendary reputation from decades of on-road use, and ours is fresh off an oil and filter service in the shop. The 3.0L churns to life quickly thanks to two new 12v batteries, and a new fuel fuel filter and engine air filter work to maximize power and efficiency. To keep the oil level on full, one of our trained techs replaced the old valve cover gasket with a new one, and also took care of the half-moon seals while they were in there. The 1K feels healthy as a horse and is linked to a stout automatic thanks makes good use of the copious low-end torque produced by the 3.0L. The pilot can select between 2WD and 4WD on the fly and a low range and center locker can be utilized during off-road escapades. The suspension is predictable and offers tons of ground clearance. New rear upper control arms were installed for state inspection and the Surf happily handles the rigors of daily use and abuse. The standard power steering is light, yet on point, and this rig goes right where you point it. The ABS brakes slow this KZN185 down quickly and grip is handled by four new 33″ Falken tires that were mounted and balanced here at the shop. The new rubber not only looks mean but will last for tens of thousands of miles to come, and quells road noise a touch, too.

1997 Hilux Surf KZN185
1997 Hilux Surf KZN185

*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.