Stock #5533

In the US, the market for 4Runners is getting obscenely expensive. These lovable 3rd generation N185s are commanding a serious premium on the used car market because they are capable, reliable, and boast a low cost of ownership. This 1997 SSR-X can give any American 4Runner a run for its money thanks to its nicely appointed interior, trusty 4WD system, and low 128k verified and documented miles. Finished in Toyota Black (204), this Surf is set off by a set of understated OEM rainguards, sexy LED rear tails, rear spoiler, privacy tint, and 16X7 Epsilon Mozzer alloy wheels. The paint is in good nick overall aside from some light scuffs, chips, and dings associated with normal use. For those looking for timeless sports utility that is great for the family, a beach trip, or the daily commute this Hilux Surf is a really good option. Fresh off a recent service and turn-key ready to roll, this Japanese Classic SUV is one for the ages and is only going to go up in value from here!

The cabin was obviously cared for in a previous life and it shows. The black leather seat covers and perforated door card inserts seal the show. These upgrades, and the LED interior lighting, make the cabin feel much more modern. Even the maintenance booklets and owners' manuals are still on hand, located in the sizable glove box. While the driver's seat cover has some cracking on the seat bottom, it does its most important job just fine, which is protecting the upholstery below. The dash is in good shape and lacks any cracking or distortion. For the first time in the model's nearly 15-year history, dual SRS airbags became standard, and add a level of reassurance for those behind the wheel. Located in the center stack is a simple to use automatic climate control system that blows cold A/C. The driver benefits from a tilt-adjustable steering wheel and adjustable lumbar support. Electric windows, locks, and mirrors all function making daily use seamless. That's not to say everything is perfect as the power-folding function on the mirrors no longer works and the Eclipse head unit seems to be missing its SD card to operate. On the positive side the door cards, carpets, and headliners look decent and were cared for in Japan.

The mechanicals are simple and sturdy, and most importantly, are shared with US examples making parts and service a snap! The 3RZ-FE is a tough and punchy little 2.7L and makes nearly enough power to keep up with the V6. Thanks to a new 12v battery we installed, it cranks to life instantly with a twist of the key. Fresh off an oil and filter service, one of our trained techs also installed a new set of spark plugs, plug wires, and a distributor cap and button to ensure this four-banger purrs like a kitten. The 3RZ also had an oil filter gasket leak attended to before it was taken off our lift, and the 2693cc mill now stays properly topped up on oil. Torque is fed through a smooth-shifting automatic gearbox and sent through a selective transfer case. For fuel economy, the driver can select 2WD, but when the going gets rough, this Surf will give you a few options. 4WD and 4WD-low can be selected when the weather or terrain doesn't comply and it's hard to get these trucks stuck! The suspension is predictable and offers tons of ground clearance. Easily handling the rigors of daily use and abuse, the suspension seems to gobble up potholes when the tarmac gets ruddy without any trouble. The brakes are solid and the power steering is as direct as you get for an SUV and has been refreshed with a new steering rack bushing. Lastly, we wrapped beefy 31" Falken all-terrain tires around the lightweight forged alloys. They not only look mean but will deliver tens of thousands of miles of year-round grip to come in all sorts of weather!

*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.