2001 Toyota Surf SSR-X

Stock #7189

Backed by that trademark Toyota toughness and reliability, this five-seater would make for a durable daily driver, capable campsite companion, or practical pavement pounder.

Exterior Overview

To be frank, the Hilux Surf is our bread and butter, and we are able to find clean examples out of Japan that have logged fewer miles and are in better shape than our domestic 4Runners. This 2001 is just such a truck, and is fresh off a recent service. Boasting a meager 113k verified and documented miles on the clock, this Stellar Blue (8L7) SSR-X is turn-key and ready to rock. Set off by a stylish rear spoiler, OEM rainguards, and Bridgestone CV201 alloys, this 4×4 is quite the looker. Backed by that trademark Toyota toughness and reliability, this five-seater would make for a durable daily driver, capable campsite companion, or practical pavement pounder. Safe, easy to service, and a delight to drive, this Japanese Classic cannot be beat and is an incredible value for a body-on-frame SUV.

Interior Overview

The cabin is simple, clean, and well appointed. The dashboard lacks any cracking or fading, and dual SRS airbags are standard equipment. The driver benefits from a functional tilt-adjustable steering column, power windows, power door locks, and power mirrors, which all make daily use more enjoyable. The center stack is close by and includes a sweet OEM TV/Radio that pipes in the tunes with the best of them. Above, a simple-to-use auto climate control system doles out piping hot heat and cold A/C. We did want to note the rear heating lines have been capped, but that does little to affect the HVAC’s functionality throughout the cabin. If you prefer more natural ventilation, the rear hatch glass recedes into the tailgate to provide additional airflow. The gray seats are in good shape and lack any major rips, stains, or tears. The driver gains adjustable lumbar support so that those long highway slogs are less taxing, and rear occupants enjoy 4 way adjustable seat backs. When more cargo volume is required, the rear seats can also split fold, and tumble forward to create a flat loading floor. The headliner is in good shape as are the door cards, and a few light carpet stains are about the only thing we’d have to nitpick on this interior. Clean, comfortable, and practical, this cockpit receives high marks.

Mechanical Overview

The body-on-frame construction is robust, and the 3RZ-FE engine is a darn good one. A fresh oil and filter service was performed as soon as the Surf got on the lift. So the 2.7L has a little more pep in its step we installed some new spark plugs and replaced the engine air filter. The four-banger feels healthy as a horse and sounds great thanks to a new muffler we installed. The 3RZ is linked to a stout automatic gearbox. It shifts like a champ, and the pilot can select between 2WD or 4WD on the fly. Even better, a center locking differential and low-range 4WD have your back when you encounter loose road surfaces. This Hilux hustles up to highway speeds without breaking a sweat, and when you need to slow down, ABS is standard, and the brakes feel confident. The suspension received a heavy refresh while on the lift. New rear shocks have replaced the weary old units, and new front lower control arms and front lower ball joints were installed for good measure. It rides well and tracks straight as an arrow courtesy of a fresh alignment. The power steering is light and easy to articulate, and we mounted and balanced four new 31″ Falken all terrains at all corners. Turn-key and ready to roll, your steed awaits!

*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.