Stock #7262
Exterior Overview
Toyota knows how to design a body-on-frame SUV. Highly capable rigs like this 1998 Hilux Surf set new benchmarks for reliability, and offer a driving experience that remains unmatched, thanks to some slick turbodiesel underpinnings. Finished in a classic Millennium Silver (K73), this SSR-X is accented by a stylish set of WEDS Keeler alloys, a factory spare tire swingarm, OEM rear spoiler, an optional OEM rear tire carrier, and chrome bumpers and a brand new Curt tow receiver. Aside from a few light dings, chips, and scuffs, the paint is in fine shape, and this truck is fresh off a recent service. Offered with only 126k verified and documented miles on the clock, this 4×4 is barely broken in. Ideal as a desirable daily driver, this terrific Toyota would make for a rugged weekend warrior or cool campsite crawler. A Japanese Classic through and through, this efficient, powerful, and handsome Surf would look perfect in your driveway!
Interior Overview
The exterior styling might look familiar, but the interior is on a whole other level. The Japanese market received funky black and blue “wave” upholstery, with black and silver interior accents to boot. The accent fabric is mirrored in the door cards and is in clean condition throughout, with no major rips, stains, or tears to note. The same can be said for the condition of the dash cover, which has resisted any UV cracking or distortion that commonly plagues this model. Not only is the cabin stylish, it’s also accessible too, and has a number of power amenities on hand to assist daily use. The center stack frames a digital automotive climate control unit, positioned snugly next to upgraded Alpine audio. The sound quality is decent for its vintage and benefits from upgraded door speakers. To add comfort to your daily commute, power windows, locks, and electric folding mirrors work well, in true Toyota fashion. Additionally, the driver benefits from functional keyless entry, which can also power the rear glass up and down remotely. An aftermarket coolant temperature gauge was mounted to the left of the steering column, which should please most performance enthusiasts. The rear bench can recline back an inch, unlike our USDM models, and if we were to scrutinize the cabin at all, we’d make note that the driver’s seat bottom has some light bolster wear. Save for that minor defect, we think the next owner will be impressed with its condition, and even the original owner’s manual, maintenance booklets, and a spare key to give to someone you trust!
Mechanical Overview
Toyota enthusiasts praise the 1KZ-TE under the hood of this Surf for its dynamic driving characteristics, mid-range torque, and supreme fuel efficiency. Boasting a desirable factory intercooler, you also gain a few extra ponies under the hood, plus resistance to cooling system failures. The 3.0L churns to life quickly and runs seamlessly at idle. As soon as it got on the lift, we performed an oil and filter service. A new thermostat helps regulate internal temperatures, and this Hilux benefits from a full coolant flush performed in house. The 3.0 is mated to a trusty automatic gearbox that feeds power through a selective transfercase. For the best fuel efficiency and power, RWD is the ticket; however, if the weather gets rough, 4WD can be engaged on the fly. Even better, this example is equipped with an optional center locking differential. With such a robust 4×4 system, it’s no wonder these rigs go just about anywhere. We dialed in the suspension with new front lower control arms and lower ball joints. We also replaced the rear upper and lower control arms, and installed new front and rear shocks, and new front swaybar links, which deliver a more premium ride. A fresh alignment guarantees that this truck goes right where you point it, and that the 31″ Falken all-terrains should last for a good long while to come. The Surf accelerates nicely and stops just as well, equipped with standard ABS. Turn key and ready to hit the road, this KZN185 is a winner!
*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.
