Body Color

Plum Crazy (FGG/PHG)

Engine

Intercooled 1KZ-TE 3.0TD

Transmission

A/T

1997 Intercooled Surf SSR-G

SOLD

Body Color

Plum Crazy (FGG/PHG)

Engine

Intercooled 1KZ-TE 3.0TD

Transmission

A/T

Stock #6532

An enthusiast pick, this body-on-frame KZN185 would make for a bonkers beach cruiser, wicked weekend warrior, or competent year-round daily driver.

Exterior Overview

The Hilux Surf is our bread-and-butter SUV. It’s handsome, capable, efficient, and reliable. Inexpensive to operate and easy to modify and service, this 1997 is a certified Japanese Classic. Finished in a fresh coat of Plum Crazy (FGG/PHG) this eye catching SSR-G is set off by an aggressive OEM rear spoiler, OEM sport hood, factory spare tire swingarm, OEM rainguards, subtle privacy tint, and five refinished OEM 16″ alloys. This Toyota looks terrific aside from a few light body imperfections and is fresh off a recent service. Offered with only 105k verified and documented miles on the clock, this intercooled turbodiesel is barely broken in. An enthusiast’s pick, this body-on-frame KZN185 would make for a bonkers beach cruiser, wicked weekend warrior, or competent year-round daily driver. Affordable and collectible SUVs like this one move quickly, and this super Surf won’t stick around for long!

1997 Intercooled Surf SSR-G
1997 Intercooled Surf SSR-G

Interior Overview

The cabin features a simple design, but is highly ergonomic and includes a lot of decent power equipment. A heavy emphasis was placed on safety for this iteration of the Surf, so dual SRS  airbags were made standard, as were ABS brakes. The driver benefits from a tilt-adjustable steering column and optional adjustable lumbar support to find the ideal driving position. Located by the map lights, an OEM field monitor displays information about the outside conditions, barometric pressure, and direction of travel in case you have lost cell service. The dashboard lacks any cracking or fading, and the center stack includes functional automatic heat and air conditioning to keep the cabin comfortable. For those who prefer more natural ventilation, the rear glass powers down and the side windows can be unfurled in an instant. If you prefer a soundtrack to accompany the diesel, we’ve installed a brand new Dual USDM head unit. Featuring CD, auxiliary input, and Bluetooth functionality it will surely spice up your commute. Other power amenities include functional power locks and mirrors. Our favorite feature is the rear power under mirror. With the press of a switch, a drop-down convex mirror unfurls from the rear spoiler so the driver can see any obstacles behind the Surf when reversing to park. The Moon Mist upholstery lacks any major rips, stains, or tears. It matches the door cards which are in equally good nick, and the headliner is clean and held tightly to the roof. Aside from some steering wheel wear, light carpet stains, and a nonfunctional power folding mirror function on the passenger side, it’s hard to complain about the cabin, and this Hilux was clearly cared for in its life overseas.

1997 Intercooled Surf SSR-G
1997 Intercooled Surf SSR-G

Mechanical Overview

Under the skin this rough and tumble SUV is nothing like the tall sedan-like crossovers produced today. It is a true body-on-frame design, and can withstand much more abuse than you can dish out. The same can be said for the engine, the 1KZ-TE. Intercooled for more power, this version also lowers EGTs for those who value the longevity of the powerplant. Fresh off an oil and filter service, this 3.0L churns to life with the twist of the key. To keep the oil level on full one of our trained tech refreshed the four-cylinder with a new valve cover gasket and half-moon seal. Two new 12v batteries hasten turnover and should last for a few more years to come. Another service we perform on every diesel is the installation of a new fuel filter, which was taken care of. The four-banger is mated to a stout automatic gearbox. Shifts occur properly and the unit is linked to a selectable transfercase. If you prefer more straight-line acceleration and top tier fuel economy, we would advise rolling around exclusively in RWD. If a beach outing is in the cards or a dusting of snow coats the road surface, 4WD can be engaged on the fly. For low traction situations, a low range and center locker are on standby to keep momentum trudging forward. The Hilux gets up to highway speeds with ease and is a comfortable cruiser. It also slows down promptly care of a standard anti-lock braking system. For state inspection, we installed new front sway bar links and bushings. The power steering is direct and communicative for a truck. Grip is handled by four new 31″ Falken tires. The new rubber not only reduces road noise and will provide tens of thousands of miles of year-round grip for a long while to come.

1997 Intercooled Surf SSR-G
1997 Intercooled Surf SSR-G

*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.