Value for money wise, I could not go past the Surf for my requirements and have found that they are not the POS many others seem to say (I wonder how many of them have ever owned one
).
Just for your info, the bottom of the range Surf (SSR) is one step up from an SR5 in std vehicle features.
There are electrical wiring differences but the body/chassis is the same as an Aussie 4 runner but a diesel and much less $$$ (seen some good early 90's examples for around $8k with upgrades).
It's true that your local Toyota dealer is rarely helpful when he hears "Surf" but when he hears "LN130" the parts just seem to fit
.
There are some issues with possible overheating, tho I have had none myself (I think regular maintenance is the key as with most cars).
If I were to buy again now I would look for a KZN185 (late 90's early 2000) as they would have come down a bit on price by now.
The missus and I love the Surf
and the best advice I can offer is, do your own research, and make up your own mind from facts.
You can find some Surf info here
http://www.toyotasurf.asn.au/
Happy Hunting, Doug.
EDIT : Agree completely with White Knight, if your after serious offroad use (I need to type faster
)
and if you can afford it go the 3.0Lt over the 2.4 for power, but I'm happy with my 2.4 