Toyota has revealed the next-generation Land Cruiser Prado, also known as Land Cruiser 250 in global markets, which is expected to go on sale in 2024.
The Land Cruiser (LC) is one of the Japanese automaker’s oldest and most successful vehicles, as it made its debut over 70 years ago in 1951 and has since gone on to sell roughly 11.3 million units in 170 countries and regions around the world.
Confirmed features
The new Prado is built on the same GA-F platform as the LC 300, which gives it 50% better frame rigidity, improved suspension, and better wheel articulation – which is an indicator of how well a tyre can stay in contact with the ground while off-roading, said Toyota.
The prototype model measures 4,925mm in length, 1,980mm in width, and 1,870mm in height, making it slightly smaller than the current Prado, though it has a wheelbase of 2,850mm, the same as the LC 300.
The newcomer was also on the receiving end of a revised electric power steering system with lane-trace assist, and an all-new Stabilizer Disconnect Mechanism (SDM) consisting of a switch-operated function that enables the front stabilizer state to be changed, delivering improved driving performance and ride comfort when off-road and better handling stability when on-road, according to the manufacturer.
Crucially, the new Prado will be offered with a wide variety of petrol and diesel powertrains, including the first-ever hybrid system for a Land Cruiser, though not all of these engines will be offered in every market.
You can find a breakdown of the different drivetrains in the table below:
| Powertrain | Power | Planned markets |
|---|---|---|
| 2.7-litre petrol | 120kW/246Nm | Eastern Europe, Japan, etc. |
| 2.4-litre turbo-diesel | 207kW/430Nm | Middle East, Eastern Europe, etc. |
| 2.4-litre turbo-petrol hybrid | 243kW/630Nm | North America, China |
| 2.8-litre turbo-diesel | 150kW/500Nm | Western Europe, Eastern Europe, Japan, Middle East, etc. |
| 2.8-litre turbo-diesel (48V) | 150kW/500Nm | Australia, Western Europe |
It is currently unclear what Toyota means by “etc.” for some of its markets, but there is a chance it could be referring to countries like South Africa. Alternatively, it’s also likely that South Africa can expect the engines pegged for Australia and possibly Western Europe.
Every powerplant is paired with an eight-speed Direct Shift automatic gearbox, with the exception of the naturally-aspirated 2.7-litre unit, which uses a six-speed setup.
Depending on the market, the 2.8-litre turbo-diesel will also feature 48V mild-hybrid technology for improved fuel usage, though the company has yet to reveal the official consumption and performance figures for any of the powertrains.
Toyota did confirm that the new Prado will come with its latest Safety Sense Package, but has not elaborated on what equipment or features the SUV will ship with as it is currently still in prototype phase.
Interestingly, the press photos show that the Land Cruiser will be available with two different exterior designs with details like a two-tone roof, and circular or horizontal-line LED headlights.
Its local pricing, engine line-up, and full spec sheet will be announced closer to its launch date in 2024.
Toyota Land Cruiser Prado
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