NEW PRADO IS READY

EXPECTED IN SA NEXT MONTH

The new Toyota Land Cruiser, or Prado as it is known in South Africa, was recently showcased at the Frankfurt motor show, and is expected to be introduced locally in November. Available in more than 190 countries worldwide, the unrivalled off-road abilities of the Land Cruiser Prado have earned it a rock-solid reputation as one of the toughest and most reliable 4×4s in the world.

Key to the peerless off-road capability of the Prado is its highly durable, deformation-resistant, segment-unique body-on-frame construction. Its combination of high strength and proven durability offers a high level of damage protection and significantly reduced body twist.

In keeping with Land Cruiser heritage, the robust exterior styling of the new Prado features a grille with broad vertical bars and slit-shaped cooling openings finished in chrome. It also has a newly designed bonnet, headlamps, front bumper, and fenders. Overall length has increased by 60 mm to 4,840 mm.

The more sophisticated, comfortable interior features revised dashboard styling incorporating a larger 8” full-colour multimedia screen, a flushsurface air-con control panel, and drivetrainrelated instrument cluster.

It also features an expanded range of safety features, including a Pre-collision System (PCS), Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) with Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), and an upgraded Tyre Pressure Warning System (TPWS).

The new Prado is powered by the Hilux-proven 130 kw 2.8 D-4D turbodiesel, a 120 kw 2.7 VVT-I petrol engine (probably not earmarked for SA), or a 183 kw 4.0 VVT-I engine. A 202 kw-version of the 4.0-litre engine is available in eastern Europe, and it might just find its way here …