The tight and tidy exterior dimensions obscure a tough body-on-frame platform, and this jaw dropping SUV is powered by a legendary intercooled turbodiesel.
Exterior Overview
One of the most unique products we missed out in the US is the three-door Toyota Land Cruiser. The tight and tidy exterior dimensions obscure a tough body-on-frame platform, and this jaw dropping SUV is powered by a legendary intercooled turbodiesel. This 1996 is fresh off a recent service, finished in a fresh coat of TRD Army Green (6V7) and is offered with only 86k verified and documented miles on the clock. Adorned with massive 35″ tires on BERG multipiece wheels, a brand new 2″ lift, OEM amber fog lamps, a factory bash bar, and OEM rainguards, this distinctive styling turns more than a few heads. Aside from some minor imperfections, the paint is in good nick, and this Japanese Classic would make for a dependable daily driver, or wicked weekend overlander. Easy to service and highly capable, this lovable Landy is a do-it-all, go-anywhere JDM SUV.
Interior Overview
The interior is in above average shape and this truck was obviously cared for in a prior life overseas. The tall ride height allows the driver to see over traffic and the dashboard lacks any cracking or fading. Positioned snugly in the center stack sits a flip-out Pioneer audio upgrade that supplies a sweet soundtrack to compliment the turbodiesel under the hood. It is also Bluetooth compliant for those looking to keep your hands safely on the wheel. For some additional peace of mind, dual front SRS airbags are standard as is anti-lock braking. Keyless entry allows the driver to unlock the vehicle for any guests, and power windows, power folding mirrors and the electric locks work like a charm. The driver also benefits from a tilt adjustable steering column to find the ideal driving position. For year round use, the digital automatic climate system can supply cold A/C and piping hot heat to those inside, and the rear glass pops out if you prefer more natural ventilation. The seats and door cards lack any major rips, stains or tears and the rear row can tumble forward to accommodate additional cargo. The rear door is side hinged to provide a wide loading area, and the door cards and the headliner are both in good condition. The carpets have resisted major abuse over the years aside from some light staining. That’s not to say the cabin is perfect as we wanted to note some light scuffs in the cargo area. Still, the cabin is in above average shape as a whole, and even the owner manuals are included with the purchase.
Mechanical Overview
The three door Prado is a medium duty suv. Underpinned by a body on frame platform, the intercooled diesel under the bonnet is the perfect mate. Fresh off an oil and filter service the 3.0l churns to life courtesy of a new 12v battery. A new fuel filter and engine air filter were installed as part of our tune-up, and we also replaced the accessory belts and the alternator to keep your electronics reliably charged. To alleviate any post-sale woes, we installed a professionally rebuilt ECU that helps this turbodiesel run like a top. Better yet, the repair is warrantied for life, should you need to rehab the unit down the line. A new valve cover gasket was installed so that the oil level stays full and the 3.0L is connected to a stout automatic gearbox. Torque is fed through a full-time 4WD system that includes a center locker and low range 4WD. The J90 hustles up to highway speeds and is peppy from stop light to stoplight. To slow down, the ABS brakes are effective and the brand new Eibach lift kit allows this truck to ride like a dream. We upgraded the axles and installed new axle seals when we were in there to shore up the driveline. We also changed the fluids in the front and rear differentials, as well as the transmission and transfer case. For state inspection new rear upper control arms, front lower control arms, and front lower ball joints were installed. We also shored up the power steering system by rebuilding the rack. The fluid was flushed, new rack bushings installed and new inner and outer tie rods were tossed on to dial in the alignment. This rig drives straight as an arrow, and to complete our reconditioning, we mounted and balanced new 35″ tires. Turn key and ready to roll, this terrific Toyota would make for a killer daily driver, unique weekend cruiser, or dedicated overlanding beast!
*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.