Stock #7249
Exterior Overview
If you were curious why the Hilux Surf is our best-selling vehicle, the answer is simple! These rigs appeal to almost everyone. They are handsomely styled, capable, reliable, and inexpensive to operate. Enthusiasts love them as well, as models like this 1997 come equipped with a center-locked 4WD system and an efficient and powerful turbodiesel powerplant. Finished in a classic Azure Blue over Silver (8L6), this SSR-X is set off by OEM rainguards, refinished OEM 16″ alloys, an OEM spare tire swing arm, OEM spoiler, and a useful aluminum roof basket. Aside from a few light dings, chips, and scuffs, the paint is in fine shape, and this KZN185 is fresh off a recent service in our shop. Boasting a meager 111k verified and documented miles on the ticker, this superior SUV is barely broken in. Sporting a safe and spacious cabin, this tough Toyota would make for a fun family hauler, decent dedicated overlander, or wicked weekend workhorse. A Japanese Classic like this is practical, durable, and collectible, so it’s no wonder they fly off our lot!
Interior Overview
The cabin is in above-average condition and includes a few factory and aftermarket upgrades. After this Hilux arrived Stateside, a touchscreen Sony radio was installed. This unit looks modern, sounds great, and includes Bluetooth hands-free tech. Additional USB charging ports were installed at the same time. The dashboard is in good shape and lacks any major rips, stains, or tears. Dual SRS airbags are standard should you be travelling with precious cargo. Other OEM upgrades include a functional power moonroof and an OEM field monitor display gauge. Both work like a charm, as do the power locks, power mirrors, and power windows. Drivers of all sizes benefit from a tilt-adjustable steering column and adjustable lumbar support. Rear occupants have 4-way reclining seat backs, which makes longer drives much more comfortable. The rear seats also split-fold and tumble forward to create a flat loading floor. The Moon Mist gray upholstery lacks any major rips, stains, or tears. The material is also found in the door cards, which are in good shape. Aside from some carpet wear, it’s hard to critique the cabin. The headliner is in good shape, and we have included several spare keys for the new owner, too!
Mechanical Overview
Under the skin, this body-on-frame SUV is one tough cookie that can withstand loads of use and abuse. The same can be said for the engine, the 1KZ-TE. Fresh off an oil and filter service, the 3.0L chugs to life with the twist of the key. A new fuel filter was installed immediately, as we do for all of the diesel vehicles we retail. The 3.0L feels strong as an ox and is linked to a stout automatic gearbox. We exchanged the transmission fluid with some new stuff, and the transmission shifts smoothly, like it should. Torque is fed through a selective 4WD system. The drive can change between 2WD and 4WD on the fly, and a low range and center locking differential can be utilized should you encounter any sand, mud, or snow. This Surf gets moving in a jiffy, and it gets up to highway speeds seamlessly. It’s a comfortable interstate cruiser with its long wheelbase. The suspension feels compliant, and this Hilux can withstand the rigors of daily use and abuse over our rough American tarmac. The ABS brakes feel confident, and the power steering is light, yet on point. We wrapped the OEM wheels with new 31″ Falken rubber that will last for tens of thousands of miles to come. Turn-key and ready to roll, this terrific Toyota is a great example of the brand’s most prolific midsize SUV.
*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.
