Our best selling model is the Hilux Surf. Easy to service, plenty capable, and handsome, these Toyota’s are true Japanese Classics. While we have imported hundreds of these trusty SUVs, it’s rare we see such a special spec Surf as this 1997. Powered by a legendary turbodiesel, this stickshift narrow-body truck is finished in a fresh coat of Cement (1H5). Set off by some refinished WEDS Keeler alloys, subtle privacy tint, and OEM rainguards, this KZN185 is in good shape, although we did want to note that the fenders and hood were replaced in Japan. Fresh off a recent service, this turn-key rig offered with a mere 117k verified and documented miles on the clock. Useful, collectible, cool, and fun to drive, this enthusiast version is as good as it gets, and it deserves a true Toyotaphile to scoop it up!

The cabin is in good nick and features a simple design, loads of space, and decent ergonomics. There is also a heap of safety upgrades for this generation including standard dual SRS front airbags and anti-lock brakes. The view of the road ahead is clear and unobstructed and the dashboard lacks any cracking or fading. The driver benefits from a tilt-adjustable steering wheel to find the ideal driving position. Mounted centrally, a simple-to-use climate control unit pumps in cold A/C and heat when necessary. Power locks, and power windows all work in typical Toyota fashion making daily use more enjoyable. Even the back glass powers down if you need to jam some 2x4s in the back. The gray upholstery is in above-average shape and lacks any major rips, stains, or tears. The middle row 4way reclines and can tumble forward to provide a flat loading floor for more cargo. The headliner, carpets, and door cards are in good shape and have resisted major abuse over the years. Aside from a neat-looking and functional AddZest radio and FET turbo timer, the cabin is just as it left the factory and was cared for in a prior life.

Under the skin, the Surf is nearly identical to the Stateside 4Runner with a robust diesel to make driving exciting! This makes finding parts and service options easy as pie, and if you plan to modify, everything is cheap! For the diesel-specific parts, we have an in-house parts department that has cross-referenced all the important bits to be found here Stateside. The 1KZ-TE under the skin is fresh off an oil and filter service and churns to life care of a new 12v battery. A new fuel filter was also installed and the 1K runs right as rain. The four-banger is linked to a five-speed manual that makes good use of this engine’s broad torque curve. It accelerates best in 2WD, but when extra grip is necessary, 4WD can be engaged on the fly. For beach use or heavy snow, a low range can be utilized as well. Sustained highway cruising is effortless and rowing gears from stoplight to stoplight is a fun affair. The suspension provides tons of ground clearance and feels connected and predictable. One of our trained techs has refreshed the ride with new upper ball joints and rear trailing arms. The brakes are confident and the steering is on point and power-assisted. To ensure the brand new 31″ Falken all-terrain tires last, a fresh alignment was performed. Ready to hit the road or tear up the back forty, this superior Surf can do it all!

For more information, please visit https://www.japaneseclassics.com.

*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.