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

The Toyota Land Cruiser Prado has long been one of the most accomplished off-roaders available in South Africa. With its blend of rugged engineering and modern refinement, the latest Land Cruiser Prado 2.8 GD VX-L continues that tradition.

Here are five key things you need to know about this legendary SUV.

1. What Is the Toyota Prado?

The Land Cruiser Prado has carved out a reputation as a serious off-roader in South Africa. While many modern SUVs prioritise street appeal, the Prado builds on its Land Cruiser heritage to deliver performance in the roughest conditions.

Whether it’s the utilitarian 70-Series, the poised Prado, or the luxury-oriented 300-Series, Toyota’s Land Cruiser lineup stands for durability, reliability, and go-anywhere capability.

2. Solid Foundations for Serious Terrain

All Land Cruiser Prado models feature a rugged body-on-frame construction, which provides excellent strength and wheel articulation. The Prado’s suspension setup includes a double-wishbone front and multi-link rear configuration.

• TX models: Use traditional steel springs and dampers.
• VX and VX-L variants: Equipped with Toyota’s Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS).

This hydraulic system connects all four wheels via sway bars, offering enhanced body-roll control on-road and improved wheel articulation off-road by disconnecting the sway bars when needed.

3. More Power from a Proven Diesel Engine

The latest Prado benefits from Toyota’s upgraded 2.8-litre turbo-diesel engine, offering enhanced Overlanding and towing capabilities.

• Power output: 150kW
• Torque: 500Nm

This isn’t just a software tweak. The 2.8 GD-6 powerplant, which debuted in the updated Hilux, features:

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

4. Better Fuel Economy and Improved Transmission

Despite its power boost, the Prado’s fuel consumption improves to 7.9L/100 km—ideal for long-distance travel and remote exploration.

Fuel economy improvements come from:

• Optimised pistons and piston rings
• Cylinder block and head enhancements
• Higher fuel-injection flow rate
• High-performance exhaust manifold and head gasket

The updated six-speed transmission includes:

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

The Prado also features a low-range transfer case and center and rear differential locks—making tough off-road conditions easier to navigate.

5. Cutting-Edge Technology and Connectivity

Beyond mechanical improvements, the new Prado offers impressive in-cabin technology upgrades. A new-generation multimedia system is now standard across the range, featuring:

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

This means easy access to apps like Google Maps, Waze, and Spotify, helping drivers stay connected on any journey.