The Hilux Surf is a tough little SUV. It’s capable, efficient and reliable and this 1997 oozes retro flair. Finished in a new coat of eye-catching Island Blue (C2M) this narrowbody is set off by a set of retro Dean wheels, polished bumpers, privacy tint, and OEM rainguards. Aside from a few light imperfections, the paint is in good nick and this rig is fresh off a recent service. Offered with a mere 129k verified and documented miles, this turbodiesel powered example is barely broken in. This Toyota would be perfect for those looking for a year-round 4×4 to daily drive or a wonderful weekend warrior. Unique, practical, and inexpensive to own, this Japanese Classic is a special truck and it won’t last long!

The cabin features a simple design with all the power equipment necessary for your commute. A couple of highlights include the OEM steering wheel which has been modified to add some classy woodgrain. A Kenwood touchscreen headunit modernizes the cabin and features an integrated and functional backup camera, too. The driver and passenger can relax knowing dual SRS airbags are standard, and the view of the road ahead is clear and commanding. A simple to use automatic climate control system is within reach, and it doles out heat or A/C depending on your preference. If natural ventilation is more your style, the rear hatch powers down into the tailgate, and the side windows are all electric. The driver can find the ideal driving position thanks to a tilt-adjustable steering column and adjustable lumbar support. Power locks and mirrors both work in typical Toyota fashion, improving the road trip experience. That’s not to say the cabin is perfect as we wanted to note that there are some scuffs on the headliner, a few light carpet stains, and notable dashboard distortion by the base of the driver gauge cluster hood.

The body on frame platform is robust, just like the engine. The 1KZ-TE under the hood is a legendary powerplant in its own right, and the 3.0L is fresh off an oil and filter service. A new 12v battery allows for instant ignition, and a new fuel filter and engine air filter work to maximize power and fuel economy. To keep the oil level on full, a new valve cover gasket and half-moon seals were taken care of by one of our trained techs. The 1K is linked to a stout automatic gearbox that makes good use of its prodigious low-end grunt. It shifts properly and benefits from a pan reseal and new fluid. At times the tachometer works and at times it doesn’t but on an automatic model this shouldn’t be an issue. To reduce play in the gear lever we installed a new set of shifter bushings while the Surf was on the lift. Depending on the driver’s preference, 2WD and 4WD can be engaged on the fly through the vehicle’s selective transfercase. For sandy beaches and mucky trails, a low range 4WD setting is on hand as well. Acceleration is decent and getting up to highway speeds is a stress free affair. Slowing down is not a concern, and this ABS-equipped Toyota is fresh off a brake fluid flush. The suspension offers tons of ground clearance and delivers a predictable overall feel. New front shocks make the ride feel more premium than normal. New inner and outer tie rods and new sway bar bushings were installed here stateside and we aligned this SSR-X to promote proper tire wear. We did want to note a power steering seep, but it’s nothing major, and this rig drives straight as an arrow. The classic 16″ rolling stock is wrapped in 33″ rubber with oodles of tread. To complete the reconditioning, a fresh alignment was performed and this turn key rig is ready to roll!

For the full listing, please visit www.japaneseclassics.com.

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