Stock #6277
Stock #6277
The folks at Toyota had nearly perfected the midsize SUV with the Hilux Surf, and for 1999 it got a few upgrades. With tweaked interior and exterior styling, the N185 became even more appetizing, and the slate of durable drivetrains remained the same. This SSR-X is a killer rig, and is finished in a stellar Black over Topaz (KD0) two-tone and is set off by 16" Bridgestone alloys, and a sweet factory rear spare tire swingarm. We wanted to note that the front left fender was replaced in Japan, and a few other light dings, chips, and scuffs were associated with normal use. No worse for the wear, this Surf drives like a million bucks and is fresh off a recent service, too. Utilizing the same gasoline engine as our domestic 4Runners, this 4x4 is offered with a mere 152k verified and documented miles on the clock. It also has a roomy cockpit, that is in above-average shape and is set off by stylish blue highlighted upholstery. Perfect as a reliable and unique year-round family hauler or cool campsite play toy, this terrific Toyota is a Japanese Classic in every sense!
The interior is in wonderful nick, has plenty of room, and a bunch of power equipment. The heavily stylized seats steal the show, and the blue accents ooze 90s appeal. The material also lacks any major rips, stains, or tears and was cared for in a prior life. The driver benefits from adjustable lumbar support and the rear bench 4-way reclines for maximum comfort. The bench also tumbles forward to create a flat loading floor and split folds as well. For daily driving, this Surf comes with functional power windows, power locks, keyless entry, and power mirrors. As part of the update, digital dual-zone climate control is mounted atop the center stack and can mix in cold A/C or piping hot heat on demand. If more natural ventilation is your thing, the rear glass powers down into the tailgate, allowing additional cabin ventilation. The door cards and headliner are in good nick aside from some light carpet staining, its really hard to complain about this Toyota. It even has functional Panasonic audio, and we preserved the owner's manual and factory literature to give this classic 4x4 a bit of history!
The 3RZ-FE engine was sold in the US, so finding parts and service options is a breeze. It's also a well-built mill, and utilizes a timing chain, to save the owner on a pricey service down the road. This 2.7L churns to life care of a new 12v battery. Fresh off an oil and filter service, the four-pot runs seamlessly care of a set of freshly installed spark plugs and wires. One of our trained techs replaced the weary old valve cover gasket with a new one and we didn't stop there. Connected to a stout automatic gearbox that shifts as it should, the Hilux sails up to highway speeds almost as quickly as the V6. 2WD is best for performance and if the going gets tough, a selective transfercase allows the driver to send power to both axles. A low range is also on hand and unlike most 4-cylinders, this example was spec'd with a center locker, too. The ride quality is above average, as this Surf is now underpinned by four brand-new shocks. We also replaced the right front ball joint for state inspection purposes. The power steering was flushed and new steering rack bushings replaced, the Surf goes right where its pointed thanks to a fresh alignment, and grip is provided by four brand new all terrain 31" tires. They will last for tens of thousands of miles to come and the ABS brakes do a swell job of slowing this rig down when called upon. Turn key and ready to rock, the super Surf is primed and ready for a beach outing or immediate daily use!
*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.
