Highlights
- The 2025 Toyota Prado combines rugged off-road capability with modern technology, appealing to both adventure enthusiasts and families.
- Powerful engine options, including a hybrid system, enhance the Prado’s performance for both urban and off-road driving.
- With a spacious, upscale cabin and advanced safety features, the Prado prioritizes comfort and occupant protection in every journey.
Summary and Overview
The 2025 Toyota Prado is a mid-size SUV blending rugged off-road capability with modern technology and comfort. Unveiled in August 2023, it features a retro-inspired boxy design and advanced powertrains, including a hybrid system for select markets. The U.S. model offers a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with Toyota’s i-Force Max hybrid system producing 326 horsepower, while diesel options remain popular elsewhere. Off-road technologies like Multi-Terrain Select, Crawl Control, and the Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS) ensure versatile performance. The spacious seven-seat cabin includes premium materials and Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, earning a five-star ANCAP rating. Despite strong reception, the Prado faces competition from models like the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 4xe and Ford Bronco Raptor, with some criticism of lower trims and pricing near the Land Cruiser 300 Series.
Design, Performance, and Technology
The Prado’s exterior features a boxy, retro-inspired design with wide fenders, alloy wheels, roof rails, and skid plates, emphasizing its off-road readiness. The U.S. model’s 2.4L turbo hybrid delivers 326 hp and 465 lb-ft torque through an 8-speed automatic with full-time four-wheel drive and locking center differential. Diesel engines, such as the 2.8L turbocharged option, balance power and fuel efficiency. The cabin offers leather and fabric seats, a modern infotainment system with up to a 12.3-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and multiple charging ports. Comfort features include heated/ventilated seats, panoramic sunroof, and premium audio. Advanced driver assistance includes surround-view cameras, terrain control, and adaptive suspensions like KDSS and AI-assisted AVS.
Off-Road and Safety Features
With 9.1 inches of ground clearance, electronic locking differentials, low-range gearing, and features like Multi-Terrain Select, Crawl Control, and Downhill Assist Control, the Prado excels off-road. The TNGA-F platform and KDSS enhance ride comfort and stability, while the Altitude variant adds a front stabilizer disconnect for improved wheel articulation. Traction management includes terrain-specific modes and a torque-sensing limited-slip differential on higher trims. Safety technologies from Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 include Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Departure Alert, Adaptive Cruise Control, and Blind Spot Monitoring, contributing to its five-star ANCAP rating. A 360-degree camera and reinforced platform further enhance occupant protection.
Variants and Market Availability
The Prado is offered in multiple trims worldwide, such as Australia’s five-level lineup including the GXL, and regional variants like the GCC’s First Edition and VXR trims with unique styling. The flagship First Edition emphasizes luxury and off-road readiness, priced around $67,000. The Prado’s naming varies by region—Land Cruiser 250 in Japan, Land Cruiser in North America and parts of Europe, and Land Cruiser Prado elsewhere. Australia is a key market with strong demand and adaptations for hot climates and outback use. The 2025 Prado’s North American return brings competition but distinguishes itself with a hybrid powertrain and reliability. The vehicle meets stringent safety and emissions standards globally, with diesel engines remaining popular in some regions.
Historical Context and Reception
The Prado’s design honors its heritage from iconic off-roaders like the 70 Series and FJ40. The third generation, launched in 2002, introduced improved suspensions and engines. The 2025 model advances this legacy with a more spacious cabin, improved body rigidity, and technologies enhancing stability and comfort. It has received praise for its off-road performance, safety, and interior comfort, though lower trims face some criticism for limited features. The Prado remains a popular family and adventure SUV, especially in Australia, maintaining Toyota’s reputation for durability and reliability amid increasing competition.
Competition and Environmental Impact
In the U.S., the Prado competes with SUVs like the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 4xe, Ford Bronco Raptor, Land Rover Defender 110, and Lexus GX 550. It stands out with its hybrid powertrain but faces pricing challenges near the Land Cruiser 300 Series. Environmentally, the Prado complies with strict emissions standards including GCC Euro 7 for hybrids and Euro 6d for diesels. Its hybrid system improves fuel efficiency by about 18%, while the 2.8L diesel achieves roughly 14.2 km/L combined. Toyota emphasizes durability and sustainability, positioning the Prado as an eco-conscious choice in the mid-size SUV segment.
The content is provided by Sierra Knightley, Scopewires
