Stock #6654
Exterior Overview
If you enjoy a determined Toyota SUV, the Surf should be high on your list. This 1997 SSR-X model is fun to drive, easy to service, and packed with torque thanks to its turbodiesel powerplant. Finished in a fresh coat of Everest Green (6X7), this 4×4 is set off by OEM rainguards, a stylish rear spoiler, OEM spare tire swingarm, and bronze powdercoated Castec Revorver R4 alloys. Aside from a few light dings, chips, and scuffs, the paint is in good shape, and this Hilux is offered with a mere 92k verified and documented miles on the clock. Fresh off a recent service, this rig is barely broken in and boasts 50% better fuel economy than the gasoline version. Ideal as a safe year-round daily driver or a cool campsite crawler, these trucks do just about everything well. From the discerning enthusiast to the blue-collar folks and weekend adventurers alike, this Japanese Classic is packed with value, and it surely won’t last long!
Interior Overview
This cabin has a simple design and includes a few aftermarket upgrades and some decent factory options of note. Toyota placed more of an empaasis on safety, and so they made dual front SRS airbags standard. The dashboard is in good shape and lacks any cracking or fading aside from a small blemish by the gauge hood. The center stack is close by and the automatic climate control system is easy to operate. The heat is piping hot, and the A/C is nice and cold for these last few warm summer days. Below those controls, we installed a brand new USDM Boss audio head unit. With integrated Bluetooth, you can keep your hands safely on the wheel while you rock out to your favorite jams. Power-adjusting side mirrors, electric locks, and power windows all work in typical Toyota fashion, making daily use more enjoyable. It even has power rear glass to allow for some natural ventilation and a drop-down backup mirror when you need to safely reverse and park. The charcoal confetti upholstery is in good shape and lacks any major rips, stains, or tears. The same material is found in the door cards. The driver receives adjustable lumbar support, a tilt-adjustable steering column, and the rear occupants enjoy 4-way reclining seat backs. The headliner and carpet are in fair shape, and aside from a non functional moonroof, a blurry field monitor, and a non-operational driver power folding mirror function, it’s hard to complain about the interior.
Mechanical Overview
The body-on-frame chassis is a tough one, and the 1KZ-TE engine is nearly bulletproof, too. Fresh off an oil and filter service, the 3.0L chugs to life care of a new 12V battery. A new fuel filter was installed, and we performed a coolant flush while it was on the lift, too. One of our trained techs addressed a leak at the valve cover by replacing it, and we also installed a new half-moon seal while we were in there. The four-cylinder pulls hard to redline and feeds torque through an automatic gearbox. We changed the fluid to keep it shifting like a champ, and the driver can choose between 2WD and 4WD on the fly! Best of all this example was spec’d with a center locker to fix power 50/50 front and rear when you travel down a muddy or snowy roadway. A low range can also be engaged and off-road, these rigs are almost unstoppable. When you need it to actually stop, ABS brakes are on hand. We have replaced the front brake pads and rotors to decrease stopping distances, and this truck’s curb weight is lighter than many, which improves driving dynamics. It goes where you point it, thanks to a fresh alignment, and a power steering flush ensures that the pump lasts for a good while longer. We rebuilt the rack and installed new bushings, inner and outer tie rods, and boots. We also refreshed the suspension, installing new shocks all the way around, and adding in new rear upper and lower control arms, sway bar links, and link bushings. It rides like a dream now, and grip is handled by four new 31″ Falken tires. Turn key and ready to rock, this all-around decent performer leaves little to be desired and is a turn-key solution to your 4×4 needs!
*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.
