1996 Toyota Hilux Surf, SSR-X

only 93k verified and documented miles on the clock. Featuring the same reliable four-cylinder engine as sold in the US, this five-seater is easy to service, and parts can be found on the cheap. Safe, capable, and handsome, it’s no wonder these Japanese Classics fly off our shelves. The cabin is in above-average shape and was clearly cared for in Japan. The dashboard lacks any cracking or fading, and dual SRS airbags are standard equipment. The center stack is close by and within arms reach. The automatic climate control works like a charm and delivers ice-cold A/C and piping hot heat through the interior. Below, the OEM audio resides. It sounds crisp and clear, and the headunit is simple to operate. The driver benefits from a tilt-adjustable steering column and adjustable lumbar support. The power locks, power windows, and power mirrors all function in typical Toyota fashion, to make daily use more enjoyable. The seats are trimmed in a durable Moon Mist gray colored cloth. The material lacks any major rips, stains, or tears and is mirrored in the door cards. The middle row can split fold, and four-way recline for optional rear seat comfort. The assembly also tumbles forward and folds to create a flat loading floor. If you have some long 2x4s from Home Depot to transport, the rear hatch glass also powers down. The headliner is in good shape, and aside from the rear heat being bypassed, it’s tough to complain about the cabin. To sweeten the deal, we’ve included a set of brand new Imperial floor mats. They complement the grey upholstery nicely, and do a swell job at keeping your factory carpets tidy. Body-on-frame SUVs are tough as they come, and this is one no exception. The same can be said for the chain driven 3RZ-FE. Fresh off an oil and filter service, the 2.7L springs to life with the twist of the key thanks to a new 12v battery. A new engine air filter, a new fuel filter, and four new spark plugs work in unison to promote top-tier fuel economy and power. A new radiator is on hand to regulate thermal efficiency, too, so you can rest easy on the first long road trip you take! One of our trained techs also reabbed the four-banger with a new valve cover gasket. The 3RZ is linked to a stout automatic gearbox and selectable transfercase. The pilot can switch between 2WD and 4WD on the fly, and when road conditions are not ideal, a low range can be engaged to keep momentum moving forward. It gets up to interstate merging speeds with ease and is a comfortable and competent freeway cruiser. It slows down impressively well courtesy of new front brake pads and rotors. For those living in snowy climates, ABS is standard for this iteration of the Surf. The power steering is direct and on point, thanks to a new alignment, and new steering rack bushings were installed for state inspection. The wheels are wrapped in brand new 31′′ Falken rubber. Freshly aligned, they will last for tens of thousands of miles to come, look mean, and quell road noises nicely.