Exploring the 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser Prado

The 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser Prado has been the biggest launch of the year in the UAE and GCC so far. Let’s examine what made the Land Cruiser Prado one of the most sought-after vehicles in this region.

Toyota Land Cruiser Prado Legacy

The Toyota Land Cruiser Prado debuted in the GCC with the second-generation model, the J90, in 1997. While its bigger sibling, the Land Cruiser, already had a stronghold in the large SUV category, the LC Prado quickly established itself as a strong player in the midsize SUV segment, competing with the Nissan Pathfinder and the Mitsubishi Pajero at the time.

The third-generation Land Cruiser Prado, the JC120, really took off in this region when it launched in 2003. This was especially true in the UAE, where the country was on an upward trajectory thanks to the property boom, and Toyota benefitted from the LC Prado flying off shelves.

The following generation, the JC150, was launched in 2010 and was in production until 2023. This model is currently what you notice most on the streets, not only because of its longer run but also because it has an established reputation for reliability and strong resale value.

Even though the price crept up slowly over the years, it remained a hot favourite among the expat population. The Mitsubishi Pajero’s going out of production in 2020 may also have helped its cause.

With such a proven track record in the region, the latest generation Land Cruiser Prado was sure to generate interest.

Design

When the design of the 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser Prado, the J250 model, was revealed in August 2023, it received not only regional but also international attention. It got added exposure because it would be launched in North America as the new Land Cruiser. 

The old-school looks of a car that had remained essentially unchanged for 13 years definitely had everyone talking. The new design is not just for show, either, as it improves functionality in terms of off-road ability at the expense of aerodynamics.

Under the skin, it remains a body-on-frame structure to maintain its off-road prowess but has introduced new mechanical changes, such as electric power steering, replacing the hydraulic set-up. While this reduces some of the steering feel, it provides less kickback to the driver when driving off-road.

Interior and Technology

The latest Land Cruiser Prado’s interior continues the exterior’s theme with straight lines for the design. All the models get a 7-inch information display in the instrument cluster, an 8-inch screen for the standard model, and a bigger 12.3-inch touchscreen for the top model. Other optional equipment include wireless AppleCarplay and Android Auto, 6-speakers, leather seats and 18-inch alloy wheels. 

Safety options include 8 airbags, adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitor, safe exit assist, stabiliser disconnect mechanism, centre differential lock, rear differential lock with LSD, Multi-Terrain Select with 4 cameras, pre-collision system, lane assist and automatic high beams.

The LC Prado had similar features in the previous generation, but the top Limited trim had a 14-speaker JBL stereo system and self-levelling KDSS suspension. However, the infotainment system wasn’t as good as the new one, and there was no wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.

4th Gen Toyota LC Prado interior

5th Gen Toyota LC Prado interior

Toyota Land Cruiser Prado Engine

One of the biggest points of debate has been the engine. The 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser Prado gets a 2.4-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder motor, generating 267 hp and 430 Nm of torque.  This is comparable in torque and horsepower to the 4.0-litre V6 from the previous generation, which generated 271 hp and 381 Nm of torque. It was honestly one of Toyota’s best engines ever.  

Both engines have enough power to navigate desert dunes. People might miss how smooth the V6 engine felt, particularly when flooring the accelerator. The power delivery from the 4-cylinder turbo engine doesn’t feel as refined.

However, one of the main reasons for the change is the fuel economy, which has improved tremendously. The old LC Prado used to do 12.5 litres/100 km (8.0 km/l), while the new model gets 9.4 litres/100 km (10.6 km/l). With rising fuel costs, this is certainly a benefit for prospective buyers.

On-road and off-road ability

There is no denying that the new LC Prado is definitely more comfortable now. The new suspension soaks up bumps much better. The electric steering has improved its on-road drive characteristics. The turning is sharper, and the car feels more planted on the tarmac.

Toyota didn’t ignore the off-road part, either. Nostalgic off-roaders will be upset when they see a button instead of a mechanical lever to switch between 4-high and 4-low settings.  There’s also a new option that can unlock the front anti-roll bar for increased wheel articulation. 

Conclusion

The 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser Prado has stuck to its original DNA of being a proper off-roader and enhanced that reputation. With more rugged looks and better off-road ability, they also increased the ride quality and added more modern tech for the infotainment system.

Keep track of the latest Toyota LC Prado prices and specs in the buyer guide.