New Land Cruiser Prado: A Blend of Retro Design and Modern Hybrid Power

Toyota has unveiled the new Land Cruiser Prado SUV generation, which will also be known in some regions as the Land Cruiser 250. While it’s based on the same platform as the Lexus GX, the Prado boasts a unique retro look and introduces a hybrid engine to the model for the first time. It’s set to hit global markets in the first half of 2024.

Emphasizing the SUV’s legacy, Toyota stated that the new Land Cruiser Prado is a nod to its origins. It’s designed as a practical, everyday vehicle, but with improvements across the board from previous models. Its distinct appearance showcases its connection to the Lexus GX, particularly in its silhouette. Yet, the Prado stands out with its minimalist front grille and unique headlight design. Customers can choose between modern rectangular headlamps or vintage round ones.

Other notable features include:

• Up to 20-inch wheels.
• A range of body colours, including two-tone schemes with contrasting roofs.
• A reinforced GA-F platform, increasing rigidity by 50% and overall body stiffness by 30%.
• Dimensions similar to the Lexus GX, and a ground clearance of 221mm.
• New shock absorbers and electric power steering.

Under the hood, the SUV offers a choice of five power plants. The range starts with a 2.7-liter gasoline engine with 163 hp, while at the top end, a hybrid combines a 2.4-liter engine with an electric motor, producing a total of 330 hp and 630 Nm of torque.

Off-road enthusiasts can rely on the Land Cruiser Prado’s all-wheel-drive system, rear differential lock, and specialized tech. Features like Crowl Control, Multi-Terrain Select, and a “transparent hood” camera system elevate its off-roading capabilities.

Inside, the Prado has a design reminiscent of the Toyota Tacoma pickup but with unique touches like an innovative all-wheel-drive selector. The infotainment system comes in two sizes – a standard 8-inch screen or a larger 12.3-inch display in the premium models.

Additional interior features include:

• A choice of fabric, faux leather, or genuine leather upholstery.
• There are ventilation seats, a 14-speaker JBL audio system, wireless charging, and a sunroof in select models.
• A seven-seat configuration for specific markets.

Safety is paramount with Toyota’s Safety Sense package, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, emergency braking with pedestrian detection, blind-spot monitoring, and intelligent high beams.

While Toyota hasn’t finalized the pricing for the Land Cruiser Prado, estimates suggest a starting price of around $50,000 in the USA. This positions it competitively against the Land Rover Defender 110, Ford Bronco, and Jeep Wrangler.

Lastly, there’s a buzz about the Prado lending its powertrain to the Hilux pickup in the future. Toyota has presented a prototype in Africa that pairs a 204-hp diesel engine with a starter generator, aiming to slash fuel consumption by approximately 10%.