Test drive of the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado: exploring the pros and cons of this rugged SUV.

The Toyota Land Cruiser Prado has become a true bestseller in the Ukrainian market. It can even be said that "Prado" has become synonymous with a large and relatively affordable "SUV". That’s why, after 14 years of producing its predecessor, the new model with the J250 index has attracted special attention. The RBC-Ukraine Auto editorial team got an up-close look at the new vehicle and identified the best powertrain.

In Retro Style

The new Prado is a rare and significant event, and it is quite anticipated in Ukraine. Over the past few years, I can’t recall any other vehicle that has sparked so many questions and conversations among drivers at gas stations and supermarket parking lots: what engine does it have, what’s the fuel consumption, how much larger is it...

At first glance, it is clear that the new Prado is more robust and larger than its predecessors. Though this wasn’t unexpected: the design direction was hinted at by its sibling, the Lexus GX, which debuted a couple of months earlier. Notably, the windshield is now positioned closer to vertical, with sharp angles and flat surfaces replacing the previous smooth curves. Despite this, the vehicle’s aerodynamics have been well-calculated: the front side windows remain clean in snow and rain, with only the windshield and side mirrors getting dirty.

Designers clearly aimed to draw on the legacy of models from the past. For instance, the front and rear styling distinctly reflects the design of the Land Cruiser 60 (1980-1992). Moreover, two design options have been prepared for the new Prado – with rectangular or nostalgic round headlights. It’s important to note that the latter option will not be available in the Ukrainian market.

Built on a new platform, the SUV has noticeably increased in size – now only slightly smaller than the "300". The length has grown by 100 mm (to 4925 mm), the width by 95 mm (to 1980 mm), and the height has also increased by 20 mm (to 1870 mm). Conveniently, the fifth door retains the ability to open the rear window separately.

The test vehicle was equipped with 20-inch wheels. However, the base versions may come with options of 18 and 19 inches.

Classic Reigns Supreme

The interior of the model is filled with a retro spirit, which is more of a compliment than a critique. In 2025, when most car manufacturers prefer minimalism and limit themselves to installing a couple of large screens to manage all "comfort" options, it is refreshing and unusual to see a vehicle with numerous buttons, switches, and knobs. It is even more pleasing that this variety is thoughtfully arranged from an ergonomic standpoint.

Overall, behind the wheel of the Japanese SUV, you feel comfortable. The driver’s seat and steering column offer a wide range of adjustments. However, on long journeys, you might find the lack of adjustable side support firmness a bit lacking over time.

Functions that a driver may need on the road are literally at their fingertips. Seat heating or ventilation is accessed via separate buttons, as are climate controls. Drive modes are switched using a dial on the center console, and there is no need to navigate through electronic menus for off-road assistance.

Some may be disappointed by the simplicity and limited graphics options of the digital instrument panel, but its functionality is excellent. The sections within the tachometer and speedometer, as well as the central part of the display, are customizable and can show a variety of information, from fuel consumption to compass readings and body roll.

Passengers in the second row have their own climate control system, seat heating, several USB-C outlets, cup holders in the armrest, and bottle holders in the doors. However, compared to the front row, the rear seat is firmer and tends to transmit some road imperfections.

The trunk of the LC Prado cannot be described as particularly functional. However, it does feature a 220-volt socket and hooks for securing a net. At first glance, there seems to be plenty of space in the luggage compartment, but the claimed volume for the five-seat version is only 408 liters. An automatic folding mode for the cover would be beneficial, as seen in European crossovers and SUVs. There is room for organizers under the floor, and the spare tire is secured underneath the vehicle.

What’s Hidden Under the Hood

As expected, the new Prado retains its body-on-frame construction, but it is now built on the same GA-F platform as the larger Toyota Land Cruiser 300. In fact, even the wheelbase is identical. The new frame is 50% stiffer than the previous one, and the overall stiffness of the entire structure, including the body, has increased by 30%.

The vehicle is available in the Ukrainian market with a couple of engine options. The primary one is a 2.8-liter turbo diesel engine model 1GD-FTV (205 hp, 500 Nm), paired with an automatic transmission. This diesel engine is installed in the test SUV. During our first encounter with the vehicle at the presentation, we tested the 2.4-liter turbo four from the T24A-FTS series: it produces 285 hp and 430 Nm, paired with an eight-speed automatic. This engine is considered the flagship.

The chassis design remains the same: independent double-wishbone suspension at the front, solid axle at the rear, but the vertical wheel travel has been increased. The Prado features coil suspension with passive shock absorbers, and the front stabilizer can disconnect off-road. The claimed ground clearance is 220 mm, with a 30 or 31-degree approach angle (depending on the configuration) and a 22-degree departure angle.

The vehicle also retains a drivetrain with permanent all-wheel drive, a center differential, and low-range gearing. The Prado comes standard with center and rear axle differential locks. The signature off-road cruise control, known as Crawl Control, is still present.

How the Diesel Performs

Initial impressions of the turbo diesel are quite pleasant. The engine moves the 2.4-ton SUV well in urban environments, the automatic transmission shifts confidently, and the vehicle sounds pleasant with it as well.

However, on the highway, there are some questions regarding the engine and transmission pairing. The tuning of such powertrains for greater efficiency and eco-friendliness results in the automatic transmission eagerly shifting up, but when the driver demands a rapid acceleration for overtaking, the transmission is reluctant to downshift. This situation means that overtaking must be planned in advance or the "Sport" mode must be activated, in which the vehicle tries to hold the gears higher. Overall, the vehicle exhibits quite brisk dynamics up to 100-110 km/h, but after that, it slows down a bit.

Even with "20-inch" wheels, the SUV proved to be quite comfortable. It handles potholes, bumps, and asphalt cracks well, but some road imperfections are felt through noticeable vibrations. However, compared to its predecessor, the vehicle has indeed become significantly more comfortable.

Of course, one should not expect miracles from a vehicle in corners. After all, the new Prado is still a body-on-frame SUV with a solid axle, which imposes certain limitations on its driving capabilities. But no one expected sports car behavior from a body-on-frame vehicle, right? Much more importantly, it has not lost its off-road capabilities. At a stable speed on the highway, the diesel SUV consumes between 7.5 to 8.5-9 liters per 100 km, depending on the chosen pace and speed. In the city, the vehicle consumes 10-11 liters, which is also quite good for a full-size "Japanese".

Advantages and Disadvantages of the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado

Strengths of the SUV:

• Permanent all-wheel drive
• Stylish design with retro touches
• Variety of powertrain options
• Convenient controls
• High ground clearance

Weaknesses of the Japanese vehicle:

• No hybrid version
• Not very functional trunk
• High seating position
• No adaptive headlights