I’m curious if the 3rd Gen Hilux Surf came with automatic or manual transmission options. I’ve always assumed they were only automatics.
The small stick you see is the 4WD selector. This one’s an automatic.
Thorn said:
The small stick you see is the 4WD selector. This one’s an automatic.
I didn’t realize they used sticks for the 4WD selector! Thought it was all buttons. Thanks for the info!
@Cairo
You’re making some of us feel old with that comment! 
Galen said:
@Cairo
You’re making some of us feel old with that comment!
Haha, I’m just trying to learn from you cool, old-school drivers!
Galen said:
@Cairo
You’re making some of us feel old with that comment!
Haha, I’m just trying to learn from you cool, old-school drivers!
It’s great to learn new things. No one is born knowing everything!
@Galen
You’re sounding just like my grandpa 
Cairo said:
@Galen
You’re sounding just like my grandpa
Well kid, I’ll be heading out in my manual transmission, manual transfer case, and manual window Tundra. Call me if you want more lessons! 
@Galen
You got it, pops!
@Cairo
Yep, my '98 4Runner Limited had the same setup.
The 3rd Gen Hilux Surf came in both 5-speed manual and automatic versions. The left shifter is a manual transfer case selector for 4Hi, 4Lo, or 2WD. Some brands like GM and Subaru use push-button switches for 4x4, while Toyota and Nissan often prefer a manual shifter.
Generally, though, most Hilux Surfs were automatic, as automatics are more popular for trucks and SUVs in Japan compared to the 4Runner, which had more 5-speed manuals.