1996 V6 Hilux Surf SSR-G

er, black 16′′ alloys, OEM rainguards, and an optional spare tire swingarm, this unit certainly turns more than a few heads. Powered by the same engine as our domestic 4Runners, this rig can be driven daily and modified without breaking the bank. This Japanese Classic 4×4 ticks all the boxes, and would make for a safe, family-friendly hauler, weekend playtoy, or anything in between! The cabin is simple in its design, but includes a number of power amenities and a bevy of safety items. In fact, there are some really cool options on this rig, such as a powered backup mirror that drops down from the rear spoiler to give the driver a view of the rear bumper and any impediments behind it. The driver and passenger can rest assured knowing dual SRS airbags are standard, as are ABS brakes. The dashboard lacks any cracking or fading, and the controls are all within arm’s reach. A simple to use automatic climate control system pipes in cold A/C or piping hot heat through the cabin. If you prefer more natural ventilation, a large power moonroof can tilt and retract, and the side and rear glass power down to supplement the airflow. A tilt-adjustable steering column and adjustable lumbar support allow pilots of all sizes to find the ideal driving position, and electric locks and power mirrors make daily use a breeze. An OEM analog field monitor is located by the map lights and displays information about the conditions outside the vehicle, and is just plain cool in a world where driving an iPad is the norm. It even reads barometric pressure, so you can tell when rain is likely to begin. The seats are upholstered in a durable Moon Mist gray colored cloth. They lack any major rips, stains, or tears, and the material is mirrored in the door cards, which are in good shape. The rear seats backs can 4 way recline and split fold to accommodate more cargo. They also tumble forward to create a flat loading floor so you can catch a catnap. The headliner is in good shape, and the carpets have escaped the past thirty years without sustaining major abuse. Even better, the steering wheel is almost mint, as well! Aside from a headunit giving up the ghost and a non-functioning power folding passenger side mirror, it’s hard to complain about the cabin. The engine and frame are shared with our domestic 4Runners, and we tout the ease of service on this model more so than other imports. Fresh off an oil and filter service, the 5VZ-FE chugs to life promptly courtesy of a new 12v battery. A tune-up was in order, and when it drove onto the lift we replaced the engine air filter, installed new spark plugs, and replaced the fuel filter. To improve thermal efficiency, one of our trained techs replaced the thermostat and radiator, flushed all the old coolant out, and replaced it with some new stuff. We also address a few pesky oil leaks! New valve cover gaskets were installed, and we replaced the cam seals and half moon seals while we were in there. The 3.4L pulls hard to redline and sends power through a stout automatic gearbox. Shifts feel reassured and torque is sent through a selective 4WD system to the rear axle or both, depending on the driver’s preference. Rehabbed with a new front output seal, the transfer case does its job, and even has settings for a low range and center locker. The suspension is connected for an SUV and can handle the rigors of daily use and abuse. New front sway bar links were installed for VA state inspection, which this rig passed with flying colors. It gets up to highway speeds with ease and can slow down confidently thanks to standard ABS and front disk brakes. The power steering is direct and easy to manipulate. We didn’t stop there; a fully rebuilt steering rack was installed along with new inner and outer tie rods, and a fresh alignment ensure this truck goes right where you point it. Grip is handled by four new Yokohama Geolanders. The new rubber looks mean, reduces road noise and will last for tens of thousands of miles to come!