Safe, determined, and inexpensive to operate, this dual-purpose SUV would make for a trusty year-round family hauler or decent dedicated overlander!
Exterior Overview
An all-around automotive all-star, the Hilux Surf is our volume leader here at the dealership. It sells well because it’s handsome, familiar, reliable, and capable. This 1998 is also an enthusiast’s dream, with its frugal and torquey turbodiesel powerplant. Fresh off a recent service, this SSR-G is offered with a mere 69k verified and documented miles on the clock. Barely broken in, this Plum Crazy (FGG/PHG) example is adorned by a rare OEM bumper guard, OEM spare tire swingarm, scooped hood, OEM spoiler, and refinished 16″ gummetal alloys. Aside from a few light dings, chips, and scuffs, the paint is in good shape, and this Japanese Classic is road trip ready. Safe, determined, and inexpensive to operate, this dual-purpose SUV would make for a trusty year-round family hauler or decent dedicated overlander!
Interior Overview
The cabin is simple, ergonomic, and has plenty of electric equipment to make daily use more enjoyable. OEM options include a power moonroof that slides back to supplement cabin airflow and an upgraded factory TV/radio. Both work like a charm, as do the power mirrors, locks, and electric side windows. The dashboard lacks any cracking or fading, and dual SRS airbags are standard. The digital automatic climate control is located in the center stack and is intuitive to operate. It doles out cold air conditioning courtesy of a new A/C belt, as well as piping hot heat, which is on the ready should you choose to drive this KZN185 year round. Above, by the map lights, the OEM field monitor resides. It displays info about the outside conditions to those inside the cockpit, should you lose cell service. A drop-down power under mirror unfurls from the spoiler, providing a look at what’s parked behind the Surf, saving a costly insurance claim. The seats and door cards are upholstered in a soft yet durable gray and blue textured cloth. The material lacks any major rips, stains, or tears. Both the seats and door cards are in good shape, as is the headliner. Other crazy factory options include the OEM 100w wall plug for accessories and a factory roof-mounted air purifier. Aside from some light carpet stains and the power-folding side mirror function not working, it’s hard to critique the cabin. Even the keyless entry works!
Mechanical Overview
Under the skin, this vehicle shares just about everything with our domestic 4Runners. The biggest difference is the powerplant, which is a special mill! The 1KZ-TE has a reputation for withstanding loads of use and abuse, and this intercooled version makes more power and runs lower EGTs. Fresh off an oil and filter service, the four-cylinder fires up promptly courtesy of two new 12V batteries. A new engine air filter and new fuel filter were installed as part of our tune-up, and one of our trained techs also replaced the valve cover gasket to give the 1K a fresh start here in the States. The 3.0L is mated to a stout automatic gearbox. The selectable transfercase allows the driver to switch between 2WD and 4WD on the fly. For beach outings and snow, a low range and center locker can be engaged to keep momentum trudging forward. The suspension is predictable and can handle the rigors of daily use and abuse. The long wheelbase is ideal for highway driving, and this Surf tracks straight as an arrow thanks to a fresh alignment. The power steering is as direct as any truck we sell, and the ABS brakes feel confident slowing this midsize sport utility down from higher speeds. The 16″ alloys have been wrapped in new all-terrain rubber. The new 31″ Falkens look mean, quell road noise, and should last for tens of thousands of miles to come.
*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.