This car has been waiting for a very long time – almost 15 years. But is the new SUV Toyota Land Cruiser Prado worth such expectations? What does it have to offer existing fans and new customers? I’ll tell you now!
Several names and several “faces”
We used to say Toyota Land Cruiser Prado, but in some markets it will be the only SUV variant from Toyota at all, so it will simply be called Toyota Land Cruiser. Although, in fact, the name record with the body code is more important – i.e. Toyota Land Cruiser 250.
The designation number “250” allows you to perfectly position the new Toyota Land Cruiser Prado: it is the next generation relative to the predecessor Toyota Land Cruiser Prado with the code 150; it is half a step lower than the flagship Toyota Land Cruiser 300. And the same with the dimensions: the length of the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado 250 is 4.92 meters, the wheelbase is 2.85 meters. According to each parameter, the new SUV has added about 6-8 cm compared to its predecessor; but it is less than 300th.
And the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado clearly added style. Flat shapes and straight lines, brutality in appearance, and even two design options – with rectangular or round headlights.
In fact, the new Toyota Land Cruiser Prado hints at several cars in the line at once. The general design of the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado 250 is an echo of the Toyota Land Cruiser 60 and 70 series. But the version with round headlights is a hint of the very first Toyota BJ, although the design also has Toyota FJ Cruiser.
Interestingly, none of the above examples ever had the “crossover” designation. These were always real SUVs! And the new one does not betray…
New platform, frame structure, many engines
The Toyota Land Cruiser Prado 250 is built on the GA-F platform and has a classic frame design – at the same time, the new frame is 50% stiffer than its predecessor. The chassis in general has also not changed: independent suspension in front, bridge behind. Although there are enough important differences – for example, a new steering mechanism and a front stabilizer SDM with the possibility of disconnection. This is done in order to increase the travel of the wheels on off-road.
And in general: the new Toyota Land Cruiser Prado 250 should be well prepared to overcome difficult driving conditions. After all, there is a permanent four-wheel drive in the arsenal of the car, the possibility of locking the “center”, a lowering row, the CRAWL CONTROL system, a ground clearance of 220 mm, an entry angle of 30-31 degrees, an exit angle of 22 degrees…
And there are many engine options in the arsenal of Toyota Land Cruiser Prado 250. Moreover, from now on, the V6 version is not available for the Prado, only 4-cylinder engines remain in the range. However, there will be plenty to choose from!
Precisely, the complete set of power units depends on the sales market. So, in Europe, the already known 2.8-liter turbodiesel with a capacity of 204 hp should become the main engine. paired with a 6- or 8-speed “automatic” depending on the specific version. In some countries, a gasoline 2.7-liter naturally aspirated engine (163 hp) or a 2.4-liter turbo engine (281 hp) will be offered – the first with a 6-speed “automatic”, the second with an 8-speed.
Finally, the top option will be the i-FORCE MAX hybrid: this is a combination of the aforementioned 2.4-liter turbo engine and an electric motor. Total power should reach 330 hp, even in combination with expectations of good fuel economy.
The new Toyota Land Cruiser Prado in the cabin: large displays and 5 or 7 seats
It is interesting that the new Toyota Land Cruiser Prado will become much more modern not only in design and engines, but also in the interior. For example, the car will receive a fully digital instrument panel and an 8- or even a 12.3-inch central touchscreen display. At the same time, many familiar physical buttons and switches have been preserved inside – everything is the way Toyota Land Cruiser Prado buyers like it.
In the maximum configuration, the car will offer leather trim and seat ventilation, data projection in front of the driver’s eyes, JBL audio, and a panoramic glass roof. Options for choosing a cabin are also expected: 5- or 7-seater.
What can I say in the end? So far, it looks like the new Toyota Land Cruiser Prado 250 can once again become a bestseller among large SUVs for a long time. Will there be enough strength for a marathon lasting 10-15 years? We’ll see in 10-15 years.
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