Toyota has revealed its all new Prado 4WD.
The Prado has been one of Australia’s favourite large SUVs since it first launched more than 25 years ago.
It is now tougher than before sharing much of its mechanical underpinnings with the new LandCruiser 300 Series.
Sean Hanley, head of Toyota Australia sales and marketing, says Aussies will love the new Prado.
“Australian customers appreciate the vast capability of the LandCruiser Prado, from use as a family vehicle, to off-roading, towing and long-distance touring, which is evidenced by its huge popularity,” says Mr Hanley.
“The all-new Prado takes everything that customers love about the Prado to a new level, with even greater performance, capability and technology, as well as bold new styling inside and out.”
The Prado is bigger in all directions compared to the old version. One of the biggest gains is in the wheelbase – the distance between front and rear wheels – that should translate to a more spacious cabin.
New boxy styling gives the big rig a more muscular look that is sure to be a hit with 4WD fans.
The Prado will get a new 2.8-litre turbo diesel engine and 48-volt mild hybrid set-up due to be used in the Toyota HiLux from later this year. It makes the same 150kW and 500Nm as the current Prado, but should use slightly less fuel thanks to the mild hybrid tech.
This will be paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and four-wheel drive.
Toyota Australia says using the same platform as the new LandCruiser will make the Prado more capable on and off the road.
Drivers will be able to disconnect the stabiliser bar to help improve wheel articulation over heavily rutted surfaces. The Prado will also offer a choice of driving modes and a multi-terrain monitor that shows surrounds of the car at low speeds.
Inside there are a range of advancements, including more tech and an intuitive layout.
The Prado will be available in five- and seven-seat layouts and is due to arrive in the middle of next year.