12 Month Update
It been a while and certainly over due for this update! Nothing has really changed or happened with the car that hasn’t already been said. High mileage Toyota Prado’s are quite common and its easy to see why. It is genuinely a fantastic long distance commuter. There are several key features which make it so, namely enough power, large and quiet interior, long range fuel tank (180 litres) and comfy ride.
SO to balance the good with the not so good…unfortunately what makes it a great long distance vehicle has several disadvantages around town. The main factor is size and the other factor is handling ability. For a large car the brakes could provide more stopping power. Also the suspension has gone softer over the period and lowers handling ability.
Taking in consideration that this is not your normal station wagon or sedan its handling qualities are quite acceptable. However with all the technology used in sports cars to make them ride and handle at the same time I’m sure it can’t be too far off that its applied to these Prado type of cars.
The tyres are due for replacement however due to the large choice available the requirement by financial considerations to be cost effective over a short term makes life difficult. Why? Cheap tyres don’t last a long time or as durable.
For one of us the new vibration from something in the sunglasses roof console and mysterious rattle in the rear door, the inadequate rear barn door stopper are the few things worth noting.
Retrospective
There are always things that can be improved and car manufacturers know this. Without constant improvement, justified criticisms and of course competition things can never get better. If we all left it to people who say – yes its perfect in everyway etc… ‘small minded’ why change? Ignore these people they don’t really have an opinion. There is always something that needs improving. Why? Because to admit nothing needs to be changed is just stupid.
For example if we left it to those who still thought the CRT TV was the ultimate type of screen we wouldn’t have LCDs and GPS and mobile phones and so forth.
In light of these comment what do I think needs to be improved?
– Value for money options and free additions. Eg floor mats on all models.
– Better seat back materials.
– More driver seat adjustment controls.
– Even better fuel economy.
– Updated dash board.
You’ll have to read the next 18 month report to find out some more!