Stock #7157
Exterior Overview
Approaching its final year of production, the team at Toyota had nearly perfected the design. This 2001 model is reliable, capable, and handsome, and fresh off a comprehensive service. Boasting only 126k verified and documented miles on the clock, this Stellar Blue over Gray (8L7) example is turn-key, ready to rock. Featuring the same tough and efficient 2.7L engine as sold here in the States, this lifted SSR-X model is easy to maintain, repair, and upgrade. Set off by refinished factory 16″ alloys, an OEM bash bar and skid plate, OEM rain guards, OEM spoiler, and OEM spare tire swingarm, the paint is in good shape aside from some light dings, chips, and scuffs associated with normal use. Civil enough to run the kids to soccer practice, this 4×4 would also make for an awesome off-road playtoy or cool campsite cruiser. Well-rounded, practical and collectible, this Japanese Classic is our best-selling model by a country mile, and it’s easy to see why!
Interior Overview
The cabin design is simple, ergonomic and clean. Toyota put an emphasis on safety, integrating dual front SRS airbags as standard equipment. The dashboard lacks any cracking or fading, and the center stack is close by and within arm’s reach. A digital automatic climate control unit makes adjusting the A/C and heat effortless, and if you prefer more natural ventilation, the rear hatch glass and side windows can power down with the press of a few buttons. Also available is a modern BOSS audio system, which features US FM capabilities and Bluetooth integration. Power locks and mirrors work, too, making daily use more enjoyable, and pilots of all sizes can find the perfect driving position courtesy of a tilt-adjustable steering column. The light gray cloth seats are in good nick and lack any major rips, stains, or tears. The driver’s seat bottom is slightly flattened, but most won’t notice. The driver also benefits from adjustable lumbar support. The rear row has the ability to split fold, 4-way recline, and tumble forward to create a flat loading floor. The headliner and door cards are in good shape, as are the carpets, aside from some light staining. Overall, there’s little to scrutinize about its condition overall, save for some steering wheel condition, and we believe the next owner will be thrilled with this cockpit.
Mechanical Overview
The 3RZ-FE is a hearty powerplant and is really well built. Fresh off an oil and filter service, the 2.7L springs to life with the twist of the key, courtesy of a new 12v battery. A new engine air filter and set of spark plugs were chucked in as soon as it got onto the lift as part of our tune-up. One of our trained techs then went to work repairing a bunch of pesky oil leaks. A new valve cover gasket was installed, and we resealed the oil pump, too. We also serviced the transmission, installing new shifter bushings and exchanging all the fluid with new stuff. The gearbox shifts properly and makes good use of the 3RZ’s midrange punch. The pilot can toggle between 2WD and 4WD on the fly, and when loose surfaces present themselves, a low range and center locker can be utilized. To put the power to the ground, we installed new front axles and new axle seals. It gets up to highway speeds without breaking a sweat and is a comfortable cruiser. A host of suspension work was performed to bolster the existing 2″ lift. Up front, new lower ball joints and lower control arms were swapped in. Out back, new rear upper and lower control arms were taken care of. The suspension feels predictable, and the long wheelbase distributes road imperfections well. ABS is standard, and this rig feels confident when jamming on the brakes. That’s likely due to the fact that we have replaced the front calipers, pads, and discs and performed a full system flush. The power steering system received a full refresh, too. A new pump went in, and the rack was rebuilt with new seals, boots, and bushings. The fluid was flushed, and a fresh alignment was done, with new inner and outer tie rods. The front and rear sway bar end links were replaced, and then we mounted and balanced four new Falken tires. The new rubber quells road noise, looks mean, and will last for tens of thousands of miles to come.
*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.
