1995 Toyota Hi-lux LN106R 2.8 diesel from Australia and New Zealand

Summary:

I love my little 'Lux!!

Faults:

Leaking front left hand hub seal - more of a bother than bother fixing.

General Comments:

500+ kilometres per tank.

Fairly slow, good learners vehicle.

Wide turning circle, tight car parks = gutter hopping/6 point turns.

GREAT RELIABILITY!!

Rough ride, fixed by after market suspension.

Loud engine noise in cabin, fixed by loud stereo.

Very decent off-road ability, again bettered by aftermarket suspension.

Able to be treated roughly without complaining.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 28th September, 2008

1995 Toyota Hi-lux Surf SSR-X Limited 3.0 litre turbo diesel from Australia and New Zealand

Summary:

One of the best first cars I could ask for

Faults:

No problems at all. Very minor leak in the power steering hose (that isn't really a big problem).

General Comments:

This car is great. Nice looks and very comfortable to drive.

The car itself is very neat and tidy; it has had a Garret turbo fitted, a water intercooler, and a power chip. All of these give it so much more power that it has better pickup than the new Hilux 3.0 litre TD.

It is great for going on long trips as it is very comfortable. There is 6 feet worth of room when the seats are folded down, which makes it good for sleeping in, or just for storage.

This car is one of the best Toyota 4WD for its time, and as long as you find a good one, that has been in the country for a while and is clean, you shouldn't have any major problems.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 14th May, 2008

25th Jun 2008, 15:06

I am considering buying a 3ltr diesel Hilux Surf. The problem is, it's automatic & this scares me a bit as I've never owned an automatic car. Are they as reliable as a manual gearbox?

25th Aug 2008, 01:40

Hi, sorry for the late reply, well, from what I've heard, the automatic Surfs use more fuel than manual, and I'm not sure if it can cause problems.

My dad had a 91 Hilux Surf SSRX 2.4ltr, and the engine blew due to a radiator leak, not sure if it was from the transmission, but the 3.0ltrs have a better reputation when it comes to cracked heads and radiator leaks.

If I were you, I would find a nice clean Surf that has been well looked after, and whatever transmission suits you.

Regards, tn.