The Toyota Prado, a beloved nameplate in Australia, has recently launched its fifth generation. This new 250 Series LandCruiser Prado offers a range of variants to suit different needs, from urban driving to off-road adventures. With its retro boxy design and improved features, the new Prado is set to continue its legacy as a versatile and capable SUV.
Key Features and Specifications
The 2025 Toyota Prado comes with several notable improvements:
- Retro boxy design, paying homage to its heritage
- 2.8-liter four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine with 48V mild-hybrid assistance
- Increased power output of 150kW and 500Nm of torque
- Five distinct variants to choose from
- Advanced safety features and off-road capabilities
Pricing and Variants
Toyota has positioned the Prado competitively within the SUV market:
| Model | Price (before on-road costs) |
|---|---|
| GX | $72,500 |
| GXL | $79,990 |
| VX | $87,400 |
| Altitude | $92,700 |
| Kakadu | $99,990 |
Best Picks for Different Needs
For Urban Use: Altitude ($92,700)
The Altitude variant is an excellent choice for those primarily using their Prado in urban environments:
- Five-seat configuration for ample boot space
- Premium features including a sunroof, heated steering wheel, and head-up display
- Advanced adaptive cruise control for comfortable city driving
- Luxurious interior appointments
While it comes at a higher price point, the Altitude offers a balance of comfort and features that make it well-suited for city life.
For Families: GXL ($79,990)
The GXL variant is ideal for families looking for practicality and comfort:
- Seven-seat configuration for larger families
- Power tailgate for easy loading and unloading
- Heated and ventilated front seats for year-round comfort
- Rear climate control to keep all passengers comfortable
- Good balance of features and affordability
The GXL provides the space and amenities that families need without breaking the bank.
For Off-Road Enthusiasts: Altitude ($92,700)
Surprisingly, the Altitude variant is also a top pick for off-road adventures:
- Locking rear differential for improved traction in challenging terrain
- Stabiliser disconnect mechanism for better wheel articulation
- Multi-terrain select and monitor systems for tackling various off-road conditions
- Combination of luxury features and off-road capabilities
While the Kakadu offers even more off-road features, the Altitude provides a great balance of on-road comfort and off-road prowess.
Performance and Efficiency
The new Prado's 2.8-liter turbo-diesel engine with mild-hybrid assistance offers improved performance and efficiency:
- 150kW of power and 500Nm of torque
- Improved fuel efficiency thanks to the 48V mild-hybrid system
- Eight-speed automatic transmission for smooth gear changes
- Capable of towing up to 3500kg (braked)
Advanced Safety Features
Toyota has equipped the new Prado with a suite of advanced safety features:
- Toyota Safety Sense package including pre-collision safety system with pedestrian and cyclist detection
- Lane Trace Assist and Lane Departure Alert
- Road Sign Assist
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- Blind Spot Monitor and Rear Cross Traffic Alert (on higher trim levels)
Off-Road Capabilities
The Prado continues to excel in off-road situations with features such as:
- Permanent four-wheel drive system
- Low-range gearing
- Multi-terrain select system (on higher trim levels)
- Crawl control (on Kakadu variant)
- Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS) for improved wheel articulation
Sales Performance and Market Position
The new Prado is already making waves in the Australian market:
- 2,847 deliveries in January 2025
- Outsold competitors like Ford Everest (1,679) and Isuzu MU-X (786)
- Toyota Australia expects to deliver 27,000 units in the first 12 months
These strong sales figures demonstrate the Prado's enduring popularity and the market's positive reception to the new generation.
The 2025 Toyota Prado offers a comprehensive range of variants to suit different needs and budgets. Whether you're looking for a comfortable urban cruiser, a practical family hauler, or a capable off-road machine, there's a Prado variant that fits the bill. With its improved performance, advanced safety features, and proven reliability, the new Prado is set to continue its success in the Australian SUV market.
As always, it's recommended to test drive multiple variants and carefully consider your specific needs before making a purchase decision. The new Prado's versatility means that regardless of which variant you choose, you'll be getting a capable and well-rounded SUV that can handle both school runs and off-road adventures with ease.
