Tow vehicles are an essential part of the caravanning lifestyle, and it’s important that your chosen tow-tug is up to the task. And to help with that, Toyota has released a new LandCruiser Prado with improved on and offroad performance.
When it comes to SUVs that can tow, the LandCruiser Prado is a popular choice for Aussies, and the new Prado variants do not disappoint. Not only do they feature a great range of features and tech designed to help you head offroad, but Toyota has also bestowed the range with a 3500kg braked towing capacity, which is an increase of 500kg compared to the outgoing model and places this latest generation in a good position for pulling a wide range of vans and trailers.
And with the option for a seven-seater configuration on the GXL, VX and Kakadu grades, with the third-row seats folding up for extra cargo space, there’s plenty of space for everyone and everything you need.
Toyota has also introduced V-Active Technology to this range of SUVs, improving on and offroad driving experience and safety. But the real standout in this latest generation is the launch of a new flagship offroad variant: the Prado Altitude.
Built for adventure
First seen in 2017 as a limited-edition model, the new Altitude grade is distinguishable from the rest of the Prado range by several signature design features and mechanical enhancements that make it the most offroad capable of the lot.
This includes the addition of a Stabiliser Disconnect Mechanism (SDM) function, which has given the Altitude an improved wheel articulation of approximately 10 per cent compared to the previous generation which is equipped with a Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS).
When travelling rough terrain or simply to improve ride comfort when on uneven surfaces, drivers can manually trigger the SDM function to lock and unlock the front stabiliser bars to provide maximum articulation and ground contact. The button to do so is conveniently located on the centre console, along with other essential offroad functions.
When unlocked, the SDM function has been designed to automatically re-lock once the vehicle reaches a certain speed to ensure the safety of everyone onboard.
With the SDM providing enhanced traction at the front axle, the rear-wheel grip is enhanced via a locking rear differential which is unique to the Altitude model. A solenoid actuator is used to engage the diff lock, and this upgrade means that the locking mechanism is engaged 85 per cent faster than the outgoing model.
Good tyres are essential when heading offroad, and the Altitude comes standard with 265/70 R18 Toyo Open Country all-terrain tyres, which feature a more rugged tread pattern compared to the rest of the Prado range to ensure excellent grip on varied terrains in both wet and dry weather conditions.
Offroad driving capability
The Altitude’s unique features are an addition to the MY24 Prado’s range of offroad driver safety features, including the six-mode Multi-Terrain Select which is featured on the VX grades and up and allows drivers to select either auto, mud, sand, dirt, rock and deep snow modes depending on their driving environment.
The Multi-Terrain Monitor (MTM) is Toyota’s most advanced to date and provides users with a broad scope of camera angles surrounding the vehicle and also introduces Toyota’s first back underfloor (rear wheel) view so that drivers can see a composite image of the rear underside of the vehicle, including the rear wheels, in order to help safe navigation around obstacles.
Also included across the MY24 Prado range are crawl control, downhill assist control, active traction control, a locking Torsen® centre differential and low-range gearing.
V-Active Technology
On-road improvements include the introduction of V-Active technology across the range, which strengthens the performance of the 2.8-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine by improving fuel economy and adding a stop-start function.
The V-Active technology includes a 48V lithium-ion battery, DC-DC converter and motor generator, which is stated to reduce combined average fuel consumption from 7.9L/100km in the previous gen Prado to 7.6L/100km on all variants.
The technology aids in making the stop-start function as smooth as possible, while still offering a long stop function to ensure the engine is disengaged as long as possible when the vehicle is stationary.
The 8.4kW/65Nm motor generator gives the vehicle an extra boost when accelerating from a standing start, and when slowing down the motor generator reclaims energy to send to the 48V battery, which helps provide gentle and natural deceleration. The motor generator is located high in the engine bay to ensure the Prado can retain its 700mm wading depth.
The improved powertrain drives all four wheels using a new eight-speed torque-converter automatic transmission, which offers a broader range of ratios than the previous six-speed unit and a lower first gear which creates a more responsive start-up acceleration.
Safety and entertainment features
It's not a modern-day vehicle without a whole suite of safety systems and advanced entertainment features. The MY24 Prado models all come with the Toyota Safety Sense, which includes safety functions such as Pre-Collision Safety System with pedestrian detection and road sign assist. There's also autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, lane centring assist, blind-spot monitoring, front and rear parking sensors, power-retractable side mirrors and a 360-degree camera.
Interior comfort is ensured with dual-zone climate control, and the large 12.3-inch infotainment and 7-inch instrument displays make life easy and come equipped with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as well as USB-C and Bluetooth connectivity.
The wrap
Orders for the MY24 range will be opening at the end of August, with the vehicles launched on Aussie roads in the fourth quarter of the year.
“Australian buyers have always appreciated the rugged offroad performance of the LandCruiser Prado, which has proven to be the perfect overlanding platform for customers who want to travel all over the country without breaking the bank,” said Sean Hanley, Toyota Australia vice president sales, marketing and franchise operations. “The new Altitude grade enhances the performance of the LandCruiser Prado, allowing customers to venture further offroad than ever before.
“Meanwhile, introducing V-Active technology brings welcome on-road improvements, with smoother powertrain operations that may also help reduce fuel bills.”
MY24 LandCruiser Prado pricing
- Prado GX: $72,500
- Prado GXL: $79,990
- Prado VX: $87,400
- Prado Altitude: $92,700
- Prado Kakadu: $99,990
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