SYDNEY: Toyota has launched its new-generation LandCruiser Prado SUV delivering comprehensive improvements in driveability, off-road capability, safety, technology and functionality, all wrapped in a bold, stylish redesign.
The all-new LandCruiser Prado is built on a stronger and stiffer TNGA-F architecture, shared with its larger LandCruiser 300 Series sibling, and introduces Toyota’s latest on and off-road driver assistance, multimedia and active safety technologies, and new 48-volt assisted V-Active technology powertrain mated to a new eight-speed automatic transmission.
In developing the new model, Toyota went back to its origins to seek inspiration from the qualities that have made the LandCruiser such an iconic nameplate.
Toyota Australia vice president sales, marketing and franchise operations Sean Hanley said the distinctive new styling, improved driveability and off-road capability, and advanced technology of the new model would make the LandCruiser Prado more appealing than ever to Australian customers.
“Australians love the LandCruiser Prado for its family-friendly amenity, supreme off-road ability and the durability and reliability that makes it worthy of the LandCruiser nameplate,” Hanley said.
“With its outstanding practicality and superb on and off-road performance, the all-new LandCruiser Prado is the perfect SUV for the weekday urban commute and extended adventures beyond the tarmac,” he said.
The new LandCruiser Prado is offered in a choice of five grades – GX, GXL, VX, and top-of-the-range Kakadu, along with the off-road-focussed Altitude, with all featuring the new V-Active powertrain and eight-speed automatic transmission.
Underpinned by the stronger and stiffer TNGA-F ladder-frame architecture, the LandCruiser Prado has grown compared to the outgoing generation, with the wheelbase extended by 60mm to 2850mm and front and rear track widened by 79mm and 83mm to 1664mm and 1668mm respectively.
This has enabled Toyota to extend the overall length of the LandCruiser Prado by 165mm to 4990mm and increase its width by 95mm to 1980mm, providing an increase in interior space.
The dramatic new exterior design, inspired by LandCruisers of the past, offers both a retro aesthetic and substantial functional benefits.
With a low beltline, a flat bonnet, and big glass areas, the all-new LandCruiser Prado offers superb visibility in tight off-road environments while its chamfered edges and high-mounted lamps are designed to minimise the potential for damage.
Likewise, the interior has been comprehensively upgraded with a new-look design which vastly improves the level of technology, comfort and space for five or seven occupants, depending on the grade.
All variants feature Toyota’s latest generation multimedia system operated via a 12.3-inch touchscreen or steering wheel controls.
The system is compatible with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and features full Bluetooth connectivity, AM/FM/DAB+ radio and embedded and cloud-based satellite navigation.
The LandCruiser Prado is powered exclusively by Toyota’s tried and tested 2.8-litre turbo-diesel four-cylinder engine, augmented with 48-volt V-Active technology, which offers improvements to smoothness, driveability and fuel efficiency.
Producing peak outputs of 150kW/500Nm, the powertrain is mated to a new eight-speed automatic transmission with a broader spread of ratios than before, with a full-time all-wheel drive system, dual-range transfer case and a centre lockable Torsen limited slip differential (LSD).
The adventure-focussed Altitude version takes its off-road capability even further with a lockable rear differential and front stabiliser disconnect mechanism (SDM) that enables the front stabiliser bar to be disconnected to further improve wheel articulation in harsh environments.
Other driver assistance systems for on and off-road environments include vehicle stability control with active traction control, downhill assist control and crawl control, while the standard trailer sway control and integrated towbar pre-wiring harness help facilitate the new LandCruiser Prado’s increased 3500kg braked towing capacity.
All grades feature a double-wishbone front and four-link solid axle rear suspension with VX and Kakadu grades adding adaptive variable suspension (AVS) to enhance ride comfort and handling on rough roads.
The braking and steering systems have been substantially improved to provide greater response and feel with the new LandCruiser Prado featuring electric power assistance for the steering for the first time.
GX, GXL and Altitude grades feature a three-mode drive mode select system that adjusts transmission shift points and pedal and steering response, according to driver preferences and conditions, while VX and Kakadu versions use a five-mode system that also adjusts the adaptive variable suspension.
To help provide optimum traction and control in off-road environments, Altitude, VX and Kakadu grades are fitted with a multi-terrain system that adjusts the vehicle stability and traction control system for different terrain such as dirt, mud, snow and sand.
All grades of the new LandCruiser Prado are fitted with the latest generation suite of Toyota Safety Sense active safety technologies.
The driver-assist safety features are designed for on- and off-road performance, and use an improved camera and radar system that is able to scan the road with greater accuracy and over greater distances.
Technologies include the autonomous emergency braking pre-collision safety (PCS) system, all-speed adaptive cruise control, rear parking support brake, lane trace assist and lane departure warning, road sign assist, blind spot monitor with safe exit assist, emergency driving stop system and a driver monitor camera, along with front and rear parking sensors and nine SRS airbags.
2025 Toyota LandCruiser Prado Range, (L-R) Altitude, VX, GX, Kakadu and GXL.
