Toyota is introducing a new engine, technology and appeal to its local Land Cruiser Prado SUV.
The Land Cruiser Prado now comes with the same 2.8-litre GD-6 turbo-diesel engine that lurks in the updated Hilux and Fortuner models.
The engine churns out 30 kW and 100 Nm more than the previous powerplant and it is now mated exclusively to a six-speed automatic transmission (previously five-speed).
The total power output is rated at 150 kW and 500 Nm of torque.
The 4.0-litre petrol engine remains unchanged and it is also mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. Maximum power is 202 kW with a peak torque of 381 Nm.
Maximum braked towing capacity is increased to 3,000kg on 2.8 models.
There is a new-generation 9-inch multimedia system that has been fitted across the range. The system replaces the previous model’s 8-inch system and incorporates voice recognition, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
There is an embedded satellite navigation system.
As before, a three-grade strategy is followed; TX, VX and VX-L. The TX variants come well equipped with automatic dual-zone climate control, 6-speaker touch audio system, electrically adjustable driver’s seat, illuminated entry, cruise control, park distance control, keyless entry, auto door lock, three power outlets, Bluetooth connectivity, USB, 3rd-row seating and reverse camera.
Seat heating and ventilation are provided for front-row occupants while 2nd-row occupants also benefit from seat heating.
VX models amplify the comfort and convenience specification with the addition of memory function for the driver’s seat, a 14-speaker Premium audio system with woofer, multi-information display, power tilt-and-telescopic steering adjustment, rain-sensing wipers and power-fold-down functionality for the 3rd-row seats.
The flagship VX-L versions feature Toyota Safety Sense (TSS), which encompasses Pre-Collision System (PCS), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Blind-Spot Monitoring (BSM), Lane Departure Alert (LDA) and Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA). In addition, the Automatic High Beam (AHB) function provides enhanced visibility via the LED headlamps when activated.
A power-operated tilt-and-slide moonroof completes the VX-L package.
New for 2020 is the inclusion of ‘Drive Mode Select’ on 2.8 VX and VX-L variants (already standard on the V6), which offers five modes; Comfort, Sport, Sport +, Normal and Eco; to adapt vehicle dynamics according to driver preference.
A total of eight exterior colours are on offer, ranging from Glacier White to the sophisticated Blackish Ageha (a dark metallic teal). For 2020, Raven Black (solid black) and Attitude Black (metallic black) have been added to the palette.
Buyers have the choice of two interior colour schemes on the VX and VX-L; Black and ‘Neutral Beige’. A matte-finish Walnut wood trim is paired with the Black interior, whilst the Beige iteration is paired with matte Oak accents.
TX models forego the wood trim for a classic black interior design.
Land Cruiser 200
The range-topping Land Cruiser 200 in top ‘spec’ VX-R trim has also benefited from a cosmetic ‘nip and tuck’.
It now comes with a distinctive new front grille design with horizontal bars and broader central ‘bridge’ as well as wireless headsets for rear entertainment.
The Golden Beige Metallic colour has been discontinued while two new black exterior colour options are on offer; Raven Black (solid) and Attitude Black (metallic).
Model Line-Up & Pricing
Prado 2.8L Diesel TX – R 939,900
Prado 4.0L Petrol VX – R 1,029,000
Prado 2.8L Diesel VX – R 1,060,600
Prado 4.0L Petrol VX-L – R 1,072,600
Prado 2.8L Diesel VX-L – R 1,105,800
The model line-up remains unchanged.
Warranty & Maintenance
All Prado models are sold with a 9-services/90 000 km service plan – with 10 000 km service intervals. A 3-year/100 000 km warranty is also provided. Customers can purchase an additional service plan and warranty extensions from their local Toyota dealer – and benefit from the biggest dealer network in the country (over 220).
Source: Toyota
