It’s the big one. Toyota Australia has confirmed more details of what it going to be one of the biggest SUV launches of the year; the 2024 LandCruiser Prado. It arrives mid-year.
The new model jumps to the TGNA platform for the first time, joining almost all models including the big daddy LandCruiser 300 Series. It’s actually the same TNGA-F layout, albeit adapted to suit the smaller Prado model.
Toyota confirms the new lineup will consist of five variants in Australia, spanning from the GX, GXL, VX, Altitude, and the top Kakadu. All are powered by the latest 48V mild-hybrid version of the company’s 2.8-litre turbo-diesel four-cylinder, producing 150kW and 500Nm – this engine will soon be available in the new HiLux.
All feature an eight-speed automatic transmission, and full-time four-wheel drive with a locking Torsen centre differential, two-speed transfer case with low range, with some variants adding a limited-slip differential at the back. All also feature a 12.3-inch touch-screen media interface, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, sat-nav, digital radio, and Toyota Connected Services.
The GX is the bare-bones variant, as before, equipped with five seats to maximum boot space. But it’s not completely basic. It comes standard with dual-zone climate control, 18-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, a 220V socket in the back, and rubber floor mats.
Moving up to the GXL adds a third row of seats, so it’s a seven-seater, along with heated and ventilated front seats, synthetic leather upholstery, electric driver’s seats, wireless phone charger, six USB-C ports, and leather steering wheel and gear shifter.
Next up, the VX gets 20-inch alloy wheels, a refrigerated console box, tyre pressure monitoring, leather seats, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster (up from 7.0in in lesser variants), and Adaptive Variable Suspension, along with Multi-Terrain Select and five drive modes.
The five-seat-only Altitude is the adventurous variant, featuring 18-inch alloy wheels that wear all-terrain tyres, a rear differential lock, a new type of stabiliser bar disconnect system that replaces the AVS setup (providing an extra 10 per cent wheel articulation), and a range of black exterior highlights for that fashionable, sporty look.
Lastly, the Kakadu is the bee’s knees, adding a panoramic sunroof, heated and ventilated rear seats, head-up display, rear limited-slip differential, and a digital rear-view mirror.
This looks like a very impressive set of standard features, with even the base GX coming equipped with plenty of goodies. It will be interesting to see how the new model is priced. More details, including prices will be announced soon.
