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After over a decade since the release of the 150 series Land Cruiser Prado the all new 250 series has finally been released and comes with great expectations. The new series is a Global model unlike the last one and Toyota is targeting the US market in particular. We delayed posting the initial review and comparison until we had the compete specification and yes the drive review. So how does the new 250 series Prado compare the out going 150 series and is it worth buying?
In terms of exterior design the 250 series is a bit retro and a bit contemporary styling. The side profile has a bit of Nissan Terrano to it but the overall block shape is reminiscent of the FJ55 series and even the remake FJ from the 2010’s. We like the look and it is more off road than city unlike the more urban 150 series and it’s awkwardness of the last refresh.
In terms of interior design the 250 series Land Cruiser Prado is a bit retro, modern, plenty of space but dependent on model grade. However it doesn’t quite reflect its high price tag which is a typical Toyota trait. The only flaw in the new design is the inclusion of a ‘hybrid’ system which needs to be put somewhere and it is located in the floor of the rear wagon and it does take up quite bit of space. Otherwise it is a nicer place to be in than the old model, from the unique dashboard design which is quite intricate but very solid all the way to the rear seats. We also can’t believe the mindless reviews showing the limited space after the 3rd row of seats are up and writing it off based on that – it’s a bit a of joke and we’ve lost respect to those self proclaimed professional who do it on one issue. There has always been limited space when the 3rd row of seats are in place.
In terms of engines and technology of the new Land Cruiser Prado, it is where the biggest changes and updates can be found. The engine comes in various options around the global but the basic model is still a mild hybrid at least here. The power levels have not improved unlike the last generation and to be honest is the small decrease in fuel consumption as measured really worth the effort to include new hybrid tech? There are other refinements and inclusions to the 4WD system which are not limited to rear and centre diff locks and disconnect sway bar settings but dependent on model grade. Safety systems are all the usual and nothing to report and the stereo system has JBL branded speakers but the standard ones are still pretty good.
In terms of the drive experience albeit a relatively quick one, shows it doesn’t have the old version’s turbo lag and the steering is still missing the magic of the 120 series. The 250 series ride and handling is the more compliant arguably a tad softer than that 150 series but we prefer the refinement. It’s still not sports car and you should not have any expectations, we can’t say more since it was a suburban loop. We think it will be an amazing long distance cruiser that’s for sure.
The conclusion and winner of the 150 Land Cruiser Prado vs the new 250 Series Land Cruiser Prado is the new one. Toyota hybrids are the ones to get at the moment and the Prado isn’t a full hybrid but the first steps have been taken. The all new Prado has all the latest tech but unfortunately with an all new higher price tag. That said Prado’s have never been cheap SUVs and it just based on what we paid for our first 120 series 20 years ago. That said taking inflation in to account the starting price is arguably reasonable. The hype and expectation due to the global release of the new Prado is a bit odd since no US based press have actually driven the old models for any length of time. We simply think that the new one is a logical evolution for the ‘Prado’ series of the Landcruiser and worth the purchase if you can afford it. Stay tuned for more comparisons in 2025.
| Land Cruiser Prado | Land Cruiser Prado |
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| Engines | |
| IL4 Diesel Turbo EFI DI CR 2.8 Litre (2755cc) Claimed 130Kw @ 3400 RPM Claimed 420Nm @ 1400 RPM |
1GD-FTV + Hybrid – IL4 Diesel Turbo-charged – Inter-cooler Direct Injection – Common Rail 2.8 Litre (2755cc) Claimed 150Kw @ 3000RPM Claimed 500Nm @ 1600-2800RPM Electric Motor: 8Kw and 65Nm |
| Weight | |
| Kerb weight FROM 2240Kg Towing capacity up to 3000kg |
Kerb weight FROM 2450Kg Towing capacity up to 3500Kg |
| Fuel capacity & consumption | |
| Up to 150 litres IL4 Diesel 8 litres per 100km (Auto) |
Up to 110 litres IL4 Diesel 7.6 litres per 100km 17 litre adblue |
| Other specifications | |
| 6 speed Auto or Manual Overall height/width 1890/1885 Overall length/wheelbase 4995/2790 4WD system: AWD or 4WD NCAP safety rating 5/5 |
8 speed Auto Overall height/width 1925/1980 Overall length/wheelbase 4990/2850 4WD system: AWD or 4WD ANCAP Safety: 5/5 |
| Capability | |
| Angle of: (degrees) Approach 30.4 Departure 23.5 Breakover 21.1 Minimum ground clearance 219 mm Water Fording depth 700mm Max 4WD system: AWD with low range |
Angle of: (degrees) Approach xx Departure xx Breakover xx Ground clearance (unloaded) xxxmm Water Fording depth xxmm Max 4WD system: AWD with low range |
| Performance | |
| 150 Series LandCruiser Prado performance | |
| Pricing | |
| 2024 $72,500 – 99,990 AUD 2018 $53,990 – 84,490 AUD 2019 $53,490 – 84,119 AUD 2017 $55,990 – 84,490 AUD 2015 $55,990 – 84,490 AUD 2014 $55,990 – 92,120 AUD 2013 $55,990 – 92,990 AUD 2012 $55,990 – 91,990 AUD |
2024 $72,500 – 99,990 AUD 2018 $53,990 – 84,490 AUD 2019 $53,490 – 84,119 AUD 2017 $55,990 – 84,490 AUD 2015 $55,990 – 84,490 AUD 2014 $55,990 – 92,120 AUD 2013 $55,990 – 92,990 AUD 2012 $55,990 – 91,990 AUD |
| *Specs change due to model grade and configuration. Always check with the dealer for up to date pricing, specifications, on-road costs, accessories and specials etc.. everything as usual is subject to change! | |