1996 SSR-X Hilux Surf 3.0TD

as logged only 132k verified and documented miles. Set off by refinished factory alloys, a stylish spare tire swingarm, factory brushguard, and a subtle set of OEM rainguards, this rig shows well aside from some light dings, chips, and scuffs from regular use. Ideal as a year-round daily driver, this five-seater is civil on pavement and a beast off-road. Reliable, capable, and handsome, we can see this Japanese Classics soldiering on for another quarter century without skipping a beat! The cabin is in above-average shape and was cared for in Japan. Its not perfect, as we wanted to note come of the typical dashboard separation at the base of the windshield, but its hard to notice in general. Dual SRS front airbags are standard and the driver and passenger have easy access to the centrally mounted climate controls. The automatic system doles out piping-hot heat for the winter ahead and cool A/C too. Below, the optional TV/Radio OEM head unit pumps in the tunes, easing your daily commute. The driver can find the ideal driving position thanks to a tilt adjustable steering column and the optional manual adjustable lumbar support improves comfort on longer hauls. Power windows, locks, and mirrors all operate in typical Toyota fashion making daily use more enjoyable. The moon mist colored seats are in good shape and lack any major rips, stains, or tears. The driver’s seat bottom has two tiny holes, but the material is in otherwise good shape. The door cards match and are in good nick, too, having withstood the past 25 years without sustaining major abuse. The rear seat backs 4-way recline and the middle row also folds flat to accommodate more cargo. If you plan to catch a nap in the back, this surf includes the optional wall plug, easily adaptable to our US voltage requirements. For added ventilation, the rear glass reminds into the hatch and provides a light breeze. The headliner is in good shape as are the soft-touch surfaces, and the carpets have withstood the past quarter century without any major abuse other than some light stains. Even the owner’s manuals and maintenance booklets are included with the purchase of this vehicle. The body on frame platform is robust and can take loads of abuse. The same can be said for the engine, the legendary 1KZ-TE. The 1K is fresh off an oil and filter service and springs to life care of a new 12v battery. Like all of our diesels, we installed a new fuel filter and topped off all the fluids for good measure. One of our trained techs rehabbed the four-pot with a new valve cover gasket and half-moon seals. The hearty four-banger feels strong as an ox and is linked to a stout automatic gearbox. It shifts properly and makes good use of the 2992cc mill’s low-end powerband. The selectable transfer case gives the driver the option to cruise around in RWD, which maximizes acceleration and fuel economy. On the fly, 4WD can be clicked in, and for off-road escapades, a center locker and low range are on hand. The transfer case did need new front and rear output seals when it arrived to our dealership, and so we replaced them promptly. The suspension is predictable and connected for an SUV. New front sway bar links and inner CV boot clamps were installed prior to its Virginia state safety inspection, which this Surf passed with flying colors. The ABS brakes feel confident and the power steering system is nicely weighted. The refinished 16′′ alloys are all wrapped in new 31′′ Falken rubber. The brand new tires match the tough guy aesthetic, but most importantly quell road noise and will provide grip for tens of thousands of miles to come. A true jack of all trades, this Surf is tough, inexpensive to operate, and highly capable on and off the pavement.