Toyota Unveils New Land Cruiser Prado and Land Cruiser 70
Toyota, a name synonymous with rugged reliability and off-road prowess, has once again captivated the automotive world by unveiling not one, but two formidable additions to its esteemed Land Cruiser lineup. The unveiling includes the all-new Land Cruiser Prado and a refreshed version of the retro-styled Land Cruiser 70, showcasing Toyota’s unwavering commitment to blending iconic heritage with cutting-edge innovation.
Land Cruiser Prado: A Long-Awaited Transformation:
After an impressive run of nearly 14 years, the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado has received a comprehensive makeover that redefines what an off-road legend can offer. Built on the versatile TNGA-F platform, which it shares with the recently showcased Lexus GX SUV, the new Land Cruiser Prado exudes an aura of modernity while paying homage to its storied past. This formidable SUV is primed to take on competitors like the Ford Bronco, Land Rover Defender, and Jeep Wrangler.
The Land Cruiser Prado’s rugged two-box silhouette, a nod to its legendary durability, promises exceptional off-road capabilities while emphasizing on-road refinement. With a 50 percent stiffer chassis and a body-on-frame assembly that boasts 30 percent more rigidity, the Prado is engineered to excel both on unforgiving terrains and smooth highways. Its dimensions have grown slightly, measuring 4,920mm in length and 1,870mm in height, with a 2,850mm long wheelbase, resulting in a more spacious and technologically advanced cabin.
Inside, the Land Cruiser Prado embraces modernity with a wraparound digital display, multi-zone climate control, and sumptuous leather upholstery. The integration of Toyota’s latest infotainment system ensures a seamless and intuitive driving experience, setting the stage for a showdown with the Land Rover Defender.
Unleashing Unrivaled Off-Road Prowess:
Toyota has upped the ante when it comes to off-road capabilities in the new Land Cruiser Prado. Enhancements like increased wheel articulation, an upgraded Multi-Terrain Monitor interface, and improved off-road driving modes make conquering challenging terrains a seamless endeavor. The addition of a disconnecting front anti-roll bar, activated via a dashboard switch, showcases Toyota’s dedication to delivering maximum wheel articulation on demanding off-road courses.
Under the hood, the Land Cruiser Prado features a 2.8-litre diesel engine, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. While this powertrain is already known for its robust performance, Toyota has plans to introduce a 48V mild-hybrid variant by 2025, further elevating efficiency and reducing emissions.
Land Cruiser 70: A Tribute to the Classics:
In a move that pays homage to its storied past, Toyota has also unveiled a refreshed version of the Land Cruiser 70. This retro-styled legend continues to captivate enthusiasts with its timeless design and unparalleled ruggedness. The addition of the 2.8-litre four-cylinder diesel powerplant, alongside the existing 4.5-litre V8 diesel engine, reinforces the Land Cruiser 70’s reputation as an off-road workhorse.
The Future on the Horizon:
While the Land Cruiser 70 may not be destined for Indian shores, the eagerly anticipated Land Cruiser Prado is expected to make its mark on the subcontinent. Positioned between the Fortuner and the full-size Land Cruiser 300 SUVs, the Land Cruiser Prado is set to redefine luxury and capability in India’s SUV market.
Toyota’s relentless pursuit of excellence has once again yielded remarkable results with the Land Cruiser Prado and Land Cruiser 70. These vehicles stand as a testament to Toyota’s unwavering dedication to innovation, off-road prowess, and preserving the legacy of the Land Cruiser brand. As these vehicles prepare to hit the global market, enthusiasts and adventurers alike can look forward to a new era of unmatched performance and style from Toyota.
