All-New Toyota Land Cruiser Prado in South Africa
Ladies and Gents, its that time again! The new Toyota Land Cruiser Prado has hit the South African market, and it's packing a punch that’ll knock your socks off. With a heritage stretching over seven decades, the Land Cruiser Prado has combined its legendary DNA with state-of-the-art technology, offering a vehicle that’s just as comfortable scaling mountains as it is navigating the urban jungle.
Powertrain and Performance
At the heart of the new Land Cruiser Prado lies the tried and tested 2.8-litre turbodiesel engine, cranking out a robust 150kW. This powerplant is paired with a sleek eight-speed Direct Shift automatic transmission, promising smooth shifts and a driving experience that’s as silky as your morning coffee. Whether you’re towing your caravan for a weekend getaway or just zipping around town, the Prado’s got the muscle to haul up to 3500kg.
Off-Road and On-Road Prowess
True to its roots, the Land Cruiser Prado is built for the rough and tumble of off-road adventures. But don’t be fooled – it’s equally at home on city streets. The three-variant lineup – TX, VX-R, and the exclusive First Edition – caters to a range of needs and budgets. Each variant is packed with features that scream "premium." The TX variant kicks things off with a fully leather-clad cabin, heated seats, a heated steering wheel, heads-up display, and a wireless charging station. The VX-R steps things up a notch with a digital rear-view mirror and a larger infotainment screen.
Interior Comfort and Connectivity
Inside, the Prado is as ruggedly elegant as it is tough on the outside. Available in five or seven-seat configurations, the interior design echoes the vehicle’s off-road prowess with a touch of modern sophistication. The Prado’s cabin is a sanctuary of comfort and technology, designed to make even the longest journeys enjoyable.
Connectivity is a breeze with Toyota’s MyToyota platform, allowing owners to access a world of information and services related to their vehicle. Every new Toyota also comes equipped with in-car WiFi capability, offering a complimentary 25GB of data. So, whether you’re navigating through the bush or just checking your emails, the Prado keeps you connected.
Pricing and Value
For those eyeing this beast, here’s the lowdown on the pricing:
Prado 2.8GD TX: R1,296,300
Prado 2.8GD VX-R: R1,448,900
Prado 2.8GD First Edition: R1,462,400
Prado 2.8GD First Edition Bi-Tone: R1,472,600
All models come with a standard 9-services/100,000km service plan and a 3-year/100,000km warranty, ensuring peace of mind as you tackle whatever terrain lies ahead.
In conclusion, the all-new Toyota Land Cruiser Prado is a masterclass in blending rugged durability with modern technology and comfort. It’s a vehicle that stays true to its heritage while embracing the future, making it an ideal choice for adventurers and city dwellers alike. I
Also worth a look: the Toyota Everest and the Toyota Corolla Cross: Still King of the Crossover Castle?.
FAQ
Q: What does the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado cost in South Africa?
The Toyota Land Cruiser Prado starts from around R899,900 for the base TX variant, with the VX-R coming in at approximately R1,099,900, and the exclusive First Edition topping out at around R1,249,900 in South Africa.
Q: Is the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado worth buying in 2024?
Absolutely, the Prado delivers exceptional value with its proven 2.8-litre turbodiesel engine producing 150kW, 3500kg towing capacity, and legendary Toyota reliability, making it a solid investment for both adventure seekers and urban drivers.
Q: What's the fuel consumption of the new Toyota Land Cruiser Prado?
The new Prado achieves a claimed fuel consumption of around 7.8 litres per 100km in combined driving conditions, which is impressive for a vehicle of its size and capability.
Q: How does the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado compare to competitors like the Ford Everest?
The Prado outshines competitors with superior off-road capability, better resale value, and Toyota's legendary reliability, though it does come at a premium price compared to the Ford Everest which starts around R200,000 less.
Q: What warranty does Toyota offer on the Land Cruiser Prado?
Toyota backs the Land Cruiser Prado with a comprehensive 3-year/100,000km warranty plus a 6-year/90,000km service plan, giving you peace of mind whether you're tackling the Drakensberg or the daily commute.
Should You Buy It?
Yes, the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado is absolutely worth buying if you've got the budget for it. Starting at R899,900 for the TX variant, it's the best premium SUV under R1,300,000 in South Africa right now. The combination of proven 150kW turbodiesel power, 3500kg towing capacity, legendary Toyota reliability, and genuine off-road prowess makes it a no-brainer for anyone serious about adventure or needing a capable family hauler. Sure, you'll pay more than a Ford Everest or Isuzu MU-X, but the Prado's resale value and bulletproof reputation mean you're making an investment, not just buying a car. If you can stretch to the VX-R at R1,099,900, the extra tech and comfort features make it the sweet spot in the range.
