1996 Toyota Hilux Surf, SSR-X

rojector fogs, 16′′ Tokyo Bray wheels, and some subtle factory rainguards. Aside from a few light dings, chips, and scuffs, the paint is in good shape, and this turbodiesel model is fresh off a recent service. Boasting only 86k verified and documented miles on the ticker, this terrific Toyota is barely broken in. An off-roaders dream that is civil enough to be daily driven over the tarmac, these trucks do just about everything well. Handsome, tough, and highly collectible, this beefy, body on frame SUV is a bonafide Japanese Classic. The cabin is in good shape and includes a few upgrades and power amenities. Dual SRS airbags are standard, and the dashboard lacks any cracking, fading, or distortion, which plagued the previous generation. The driver can find the ideal position thanks to a tilt-adjustable steering column and adjustable lumbar support. Power windows, locks, mirrors, and electric rear glass all function as they should, making daily use more enjoyable. If you prefer to roll the windows up and control cabin comfort manually, an easy to use automatic climate control system doles out cold A/C and hot heat on demand. The Moon Mist gray seats are in good shape and lack any major rips, stains, or tears. The same material is mirrored in the door cards. The rear row can tumble forward and has the ability to fold into the floor to create a flat loading surface. It also has 4-way reclining seat backs for optimal rear passenger comfort. The headliner and carpets are in fine shape, and aside from some fuzziness from the Sony radio, it’s hard to nitpick this cabin. Body on frame and built to last, the same can be said for the engine, 1KZ-TE. Fresh off an oil and filter service, the 3.0L springs to life care of a new 12V battery. A quick tune-up was in order, and we took care of a set of new accessory belts, and then we replaced the intake air filter and fuel filter. One of our trained techs also installed a new valve cover gasket and half moon seal, so that the oil level stays full. This four-cylinder produces gobs of torque and is linked to a stout automatic gearbox that shifts properly. The selectable transfer case offers the pilot to choose between 2WD and 4WD on the fly, and an optional center locker and low range can be engaged during your off-road exploits. The Surf feels predictable at highway speeds and is peppy about the city from stoplight to stoplight. It gets up and moves well from low RPM, and slowing down isn’t an issue with new front brake pads and rotors up front. ABS is standard equipment for this generation Hilux, too. The steering is connected for an SUV, and we completely rebuilt the steering rack for the new American owner. New inner and outer tie rods, rack bushings, front sway bar links, and a fresh alignment finish out the driveline refresh. Lastly, we installed four brand new 31′′ Falken tires and aligned everything. Turn key and ready to rock, this truck would be a competent family hauler, cool campsite companion, or unique overlander that can get down and dirty with the best of them!