The third generation Toyota Hilux Surf, more commonly known to the US market as the Toyota 4Runner, is undoubtedly one of the most iconic mid-size SUV’s ever developed. Comfortable enough to be used as a daily cruiser, yet rugged enough to take on trails and the elements without batting an eye, the Hilux Surf/4Runner holds a cult following amongst Toyota enthusiasts and many well-preserved examples can still be seen putting around on the road today. Optioned from the factory with Toyota’s legendary 1KZ-TE turbo diesel I4 and 4 speed automatic transmission with selectable 4WD and locking center diff, this Hilux is spec’d perfectly for the enthusiast looking for a daily driver with some serious off-road potential. The exterior is finished in a fresh coat of Toyota Stellar Blue Pearl (8L7). Complimented with metallic silver two-tone trimmings, the exterior certainly makes this Surf quite the looker. There are some age-related dents and dings on the body, but overall the exterior shows quite well. Luckily, this Hilux has not fallen victim to rust like its US counterparts, and the chassis is clean and sure to last the next owner for many years to come. While to the untrained eye this may look like your typical US market 4Runner, OEM exterior options such as a hood scoop, fender mirror, and rear spoiler with power retracting mirror set this Hilux apart from the pack. It’s a timeless look that has aged quite gracefully, and with a fresh paint job this SUV will surely turn the head of any Toyota enthusiast on the road. If you know you know. The interior is quite clean and has definitely held up well over the past 26 years. The striped cloth upholstery is free of any rips or tears and the dash, complete with tortoise trim, is near spotless, save for a missing radio. All buttons and switches are fully functional, down to the automatic climate control with perfectly functioning AC and heat, and the optional clinometer unit positioned below the map lights. The instrument cluster displays 271,046 verified kilometres. Equating to about 168,420 actual miles this SUV still has plenty of life left, especially on the bulletproof Toyota powerplant. Turn the key and the intercooled, turbocharged diesel 4 banger fires right up. Luckily this engine was widely used in many other Toyota models so parts availability is abundant and this Hilux can be serviced with ease. The engine has plenty of torque to get up and go around town, and the auto trans never feels sluggish, shifting smoothly through all gears. The transfer case switches between drive wheels with no issue, and the selectable 4WD is fully operational. This Hilux Surf is a jack of all trades and an excellent example of some Japanese market coolness we never got in the states. Fully serviced and ready to roll, this Hilux needs nothing more than someone to drive it!