1999 Toyota Prado J95

Stock #6608

Exceedingly functional, super stylish, and comfortable to cruise on your commute, we love the 90 series Prado for all these reasons and more!

Exterior Overview

Toyota was killing the SUV game in the late 90’s, developing a cultlike following on models such as the 4Runner and Land Cruiser. We’re not quite sure why the J95 Prado was never offered here domestically, as it served up the extra interior space, ground clearance, and surefooted 4WD that Americans crave. It’s also based on the Hilux Surf platform, making parts acquisition a near mirror image to similar V6 4Runners. Our 1999 is a cherry example, set off by some choice factory options and extras, and finished in Crystal Silver/Greyish Beige (K75). A trick factory graphics package adorns the exterior, which also sports an optional front brushguard, refinished factory 16″ wheels, and OEM rainguards. Save for some minor paint imperfections, the cosmetics are no worse for the wear, and the 67k miles on the clock make this Prado an appealing prospect in the used car market overall. Exceedingly functional, super stylish, and comfortable to cruise on your commute, we love this Japanese Classic for all these reasons and more!

Interior Overview

The interior hits the mark in more ways than one. It’s spacious, like a full size Cruiser should be, it’s packed with power amenities to make daily driving easy, and the condition of the materials is above average, indicating this 90 series was well cared for in a prior life. The tan cloth upholstery is the star of the show, with retro patterned inserts and seating arrangements for up to eight! The cloth shows no discernible rips, stains, or tears from daily use, which is truly impressive, and the dash cover is in equally good shape save for some adhesive residue from a prior accessory mount. The center stack features an easy to use automatic climate control system, which has cold A/C and hot heat on the ready, and an AddZest touch screen radio adds a touch of period correct goodness to the switchgear. The audio quality isn’t half bad either! Power windows, locks, and electronic folding side mirrors are in good working order, and in lieu of a more modern backup camera, a convex lollipop mirror makes reversing in tighter parking spots a breeze. There’s even a sizable power moonroof that can unfurl to let in a fresh breeze. The seating arrangements are versatile. The third row can fold up and stow against the d-pillars to expand the cargo hold, and the middle bench can flip fully forward to accommodate a trip to the flea market or hardware store. Factory accessories are abundant. An OEM trash receptacle is affixed to the left of the transmission tunnel, and a field monitor displays outside parameters for aspiring overlanders. The carpets are protected by some nifty OEM mats, and even the factory keyless entry works!

Mechanical Overview

Body on frame in its construction, this Land Cruiser is built rock solid, and the same can be said for its engine, the 5VZ-FE. Fresh off an oil and filter service, the 3.4L churns to life care of a new 12v battery. A new fuel filter and engine air filter work to maximize fuel economy and crank out a few more ponies as well. Power is fed through a stout automatic transmission that shifts properly, and is geared for city and interstate usage. Our first Prado spec’d with a new active 4WD system, the selective transfercase offers the best of both worlds. You can cruise around in 4H to maximize fuel economy, and active TRC distributes power to where it’s needed most. For trips on loose surfaces or up a demanding incline, the center differential can be locked, and 4WD low can be selected, giving you the benefits of a real-deal 4×4 system. We replaced both rear shocks for better ride quality and performed an alignment to promote proper tire wear. ABS brakes confidently slow down this truck and the power steering is light and on point. New steering rack bushings add some peace of mind and grip is handled by four new Falken tires freshly mounted and balanced on refinished stock 16’s. Turn key and ready to rock, this Prado is the perfect year round 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.