5 Things You Need to Know About the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado

The Toyota Land Cruiser Prado has long been regarded as one of the most accomplished off-road vehicles in South Africa. With its unique blend of rugged engineering and modern refinement, the latest Land Cruiser Prado 2.8 GD VX-L continues to uphold this legacy. Before you consider purchasing this iconic SUV, here are 5 Things You Need to Know About the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado that might guide your decision.

1. What Is the Toyota Prado?

To begin with, the Land Cruiser Prado has built a solid reputation as a serious off-roader in the South African market. While many modern SUVs focus mainly on street appeal, the Prado distinguishes itself by building on the Land Cruiser heritage to deliver unmatched performance in the harshest conditions. Understanding 5 Things You Need to Know About the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado is vital before making a decision.

Whether you’re looking at the utilitarian 70 Series, the well-balanced Prado, or the luxury-oriented 300 Series, one thing is clear: Toyota’s Land Cruiser range stands for durability, reliability, and go-anywhere capability.

2. Solid Foundations for Serious Terrain

Next, all Land Cruiser Prado models feature a tough body-on-frame construction, providing outstanding strength and superior wheel articulation—crucial for serious off-road use. Thinking of purchasing one? Consider the 5 Things You Need to Know About the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado.

• TX models come with traditional steel springs and dampers.
• In contrast, the VX and VX-L variants are fitted with Toyota’s advanced Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS).

This innovative hydraulic system links all four wheels via sway bars, significantly enhancing body-roll control during on-road driving. More importantly, it improves wheel articulation off-road by disconnecting the sway bars when needed, making the Prado highly capable in challenging terrain.

3. More Power from a Proven Diesel Engine

Moving on, the latest Prado now comes equipped with an upgraded 2.8-litre turbo-diesel engine, greatly enhancing its towing and overlanding capabilities. This engine is a highlight.

• Power output: 150kW
• Torque: 500Nm

This upgrade is more than just a software tweak. The refined 2.8 GD-6 engine, originally introduced in the updated Hilux, now features:

• A new ball-bearing turbocharger
• A larger turbine and impeller
• Improved engine rigidity
• Enhanced cooling systems

These changes ensure the Prado not only delivers more power but also maintains Toyota’s signature reliability.

4. Better Fuel Economy and Improved Transmission

Despite the noticeable increase in power, the Prado impressively improves its fuel consumption to just 7.9L/100 km, making it ideal for long-distance travel and remote adventures.

This improved efficiency is the result of:

• Optimised pistons and piston rings
• Upgraded cylinder block and head
• A higher fuel-injection flow rate
• A performance-oriented exhaust manifold and head gasket

Furthermore, the Prado now includes a re-engineered six-speed automatic transmission with:

• A revised torque converter lock-up system
• Smoother yet firmer gearshifts
• Newly added paddle-shift functionality

For off-road enthusiasts, the inclusion of a low-range transfer case, along with center and rear differential locks, means this SUV can easily tackle the most challenging environments.

5. Cutting-Edge Technology and Connectivity

Finally, beyond its mechanical upgrades, the Prado boasts a host of in-cabin technology enhancements. Every model now features a next-generation multimedia system, including:

• A larger 9-inch touchscreen display (up from 8-inch)
• Enhanced voice recognition features
• Full Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility

These upgrades provide seamless access to apps like Google Maps, Waze, and Spotify—ensuring drivers stay connected, informed, and entertained throughout their journey.

Discover Your Toyota Land Cruiser Prado at Adios

Ready to experience the ultimate SUV? Visit Adios today to explore our wide range of Toyota Land Cruiser Prado models.

If you’re searching for the best Toyota Land Cruiser deals in Pretoria, learn about the 5 Things You Need to Know About the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado before you browse our full inventory online at Adios.co.za or visit our dealership in person.

Visit Adios today, to find your Toyota Land Cruiser

Looking for the best Toyota Land Cruiser deals in Pretoria?
Browse our full inventory online at Adios.co.za or visit our showroom in Lynnwood Road, Pretoria for a test drive today.