Seabreezers, I'm thinking about importing a Hilux Surf to Australia. I like the dual cab Hilux but prefer the interior space that the Surf offers over a fixed canopy. The second market is flooded with Hilux's but they seem to have a high asking price even when they have high Kms. I think the Surf version is more practical, plus you could sleep in the back should you need/want to.

I've seen a few agents offering 09/08 models from Japan with under 100,000k's, including import costs to Freo for around $20k AUD (more or less depending on exchange) to me this sounds almost too good to be true as people in Aus are asking $30+k for an equivalent Hilux. I've seen pre 97 Surf models for sale online in AUs with 250-300,000km for around $10k but think they might carry a few too many mechanical issues at that age to be worth the money

Has anyone got any experience with importing cars that they can share? What additional taxes do i need to pay? (I’ve had a look at car forums but most posts seem dated and not sure if they are still relevant).

Obviously not being able to test drive it is an issue but given the large number of Hilux's we have in Aus spares shouldn’t be a real issue should there be any problems? Any reasons for/against a Hilux?

Cheers, Dave