Stock #6258
As forbidden fruit for the lowly American market, these lovely turbodiesel Surfs eluded us for years. This 3rd generation N185 platform is refined, collectible, and packs plenty of performance. This Limited 1997 is finished in a sleek Black over Gray (204) two-tone, and is complimented by a set of 16″ refinished alloy wheels wrapped in beefy Falken tires, a stylish OEM rear spoiler, factory rainguards, and menacing rear privacy tint. At only 138k verified and documented miles, this recently serviced rig is barely broken in, and is turn-key ready to rock. Boasting a locking center differential and abundant interior equipment, this Toyota would make for killer trail rigs, spacious family haulers, and year-round daily drivers. For those looking for a practical, trustworthy, efficient, and special Japanese Classic, this SSR-X is surely the ticket!
The cabin is spacious and nicely appointed, too. It’s in above-average condition and was obviously cared for in a prior life. The view of the road ahead is clear and commanding and the driver sits far above traffic. The dashboard is in good shape and lacks any cracking or distortion. Dual front SRS airbags are standard, and the driver even receives adjustable lumbar support and a tilt-adjustable steering column. The center stack includes upgraded Sony audio and automatic climate control system. The USDM compatible audio quality is swell and Bluetooth is fully functional to soundtrack your drive. Everything works well in typical Toyota fashion as do the electric windows, power-folding mirrors, and electric locks. Even the rear hatch glass can be powered down for better cabin ventilation, or if you need to fit in a few 2x4s from Lowes. The charcoal cloth seats are in above-average shape and lack any major rips, stains, or tears. They match the door cards which are also in good nick. That’s not to say the cabin is perfect as we wanted to note a few scuffs on the headliner. Still, at 25 years old this is a bit of nitpicking and we think the next owner will be overly impressed with how well the interior was cared for.
Sharing a platform with our stateside 4Runner has many benefits. Abundant aftermarket upgrades, parts availability, and readily available service options make these trucks easy to own. This SSR-X is powered by the legendary 1KZ-TE. Fresh off an oil and filter service, the 3.0L churns to life with the twist of the key. The four-cylinder is linked to a slick-shifting automatic transmission, fresh off a fluid service, and a selective transfercase. Like US models, 2WD and 4WD high and low can be engaged from inside the cabin, but the JDM truck also includes one massive upgrade. The factory center locking differential is a difference-maker on loose surfaces, and the off-road crowd knows this well. We even replaced an output seal at the front of the transfercase and flushed out the old fluid to ensure everything stays within spec. The power steering is light and on point, thanks to new rack bushings, and the standard ABS brakes feel confident. The suspension is predictable and is about as sporty as any SUV we sell, and new upper control arms were installed in the rear to keep the chassis nimble and safe for the lucky next owner. The 31″ Falken all-terrain tires steal the show aesthetically and are knee deep in tread. Ideal for ventures off the beaten path, they should last for a good while to come!