The Toyota Hilux Surf SSR-G V6

The Toyota Hilux Surf, or Toyota 4Runner as it’s known outside of Japan, is an SUV manufactured by Toyota starting in 1984 and continuing for five generations (so far). The original Hilux Surf was a compact SUV that was essentially a Toyota Hilux pickup truck that had a fiberglass shell tacked on over the bed, but over the generations, the Hilux Surf evolved into its own larger model with more SUV-like characteristics. 

Despite moving upmarket with the rest of the mid-size SUV market over time, later generations of the 4Runner/Hilux Surf like this 3rd generation example differentiated themselves by retaining the rugged off-road character its competitors were sacrificing for highway comfort. This was a capable luxury machine that could be had at an affordable price. 

The 3rd generation Hilux Surf included a bigger body on a longer wheelbase that allowed for more interior and cargo space, as well as safety features like dual airbags and ABS. It also included a coil spring suspension, a lift-up tailgate, rack and pinion steering and more aerodynamic headlights. 

3rd gen Hilux Surfs also moved to 16-inch wheels and added a locking center differential. The new 4Runner was also available with a factory installed selectable electric locker in the rear differential, a first for the 4Runner/Hilux Surf, although it was available on the higher-end Toyota Land Cruiser prior. 

“So Fourbie Exchange, where’d the name come from?” 

GLAD YOU ASKED. The name "4Runner" was created by a Saatchi & Saatchi copywriter who coined the term as part of a contest to invent new names for some of Toyota's upcoming vehicles. 4Runner was a play on the term "forerunner," since the sport utility vehicle was the first of its kind for Toyota with an emphasis on its 4x4 capability and seating for four. “But Fourbie Exchange, how did the Hilux Surf get its name?” GLAD YOU ASKED. Hilux is a mixture of the English word "high" and "luxury,” which is a nod to this rig’s high performance and luxury characteristics. There are two theories about the origin of Surf. First, Surf invokes large waves which symbolize the expansiveness of the vehicle's utility. It was also thought that the word “Surf” had a good rhythm and just…sounded rad. It’s true..