10 Things You Did Not Know About the Toyota Prado

The Toyota Land Cruiser Prado has established itself as one of the most respected and versatile SUVs on the global market, combining exceptional off-road capability with refined on-road comfort. While many drivers are familiar with its reputation for reliability and performance, there are numerous fascinating aspects of the Prado's history and engineering that remain largely unknown. Before exploring these hidden gems, here's a quick summary: The Toyota Prado has evolved through multiple generations since 1990, building a legacy of durability, technological innovation, and adaptability to various terrains while continuously upgrading its luxury features.

1. The Prado's Surprising Origins

Most Toyota enthusiasts might not know that the Prado wasn't always called the "Prado." When the vehicle was first introduced in 1990, it was positioned as a light-duty addition to Toyota's Land Cruiser lineup, focusing more on on-road comfort rather than the extreme off-road capabilities of its siblings¹². Before officially receiving the Prado name in the 1990s, this model was initially called the "Bundera" in some markets, marking the beginning of what would become a global automotive icon³.

2. A Vehicle of Many Names

The Prado has gone through various naming conventions worldwide, creating confusion even among Toyota enthusiasts. In the United Kingdom, it was initially marketed as the "Land Cruiser Colorado" to distinguish it from the larger Land Cruiser (which was renamed the "Land Cruiser Amazon")⁴⁵. Depending on the platform and generation, the Prado may also be referred to as Land Cruiser LC70, LC90, LC120, LC150, and LC250, making it one of Toyota's most diversely labeled vehicles across global markets⁴.

3. North American Market Absence

Perhaps one of the most surprising facts about the Prado is its long absence from the North American market. Up until the J150 model, the Prado was not officially part of the Land Cruiser range in North America⁴³. Instead, Toyota positioned the rebadged Lexus GX to occupy the Prado's market segment in luxury trim. This strategic decision was due to a combination of factors including market demand and regulatory requirements⁶. The Prado was finally introduced to North America in 2023, marketed simply as the "Land Cruiser"³.

4. Colombian Armored Edition

Between 1999 and 2009, the Prado was assembled by Sofasa in Colombia without significant changes⁴. What makes this particularly interesting is that from 2005 to 2009, they offered an optional armored version of the 5-door Prado, highlighting the vehicle's adaptability for high-security applications in regions where such features were in demand⁴⁵.

5. Pioneering Electric Power Steering

The newest J250 Prado (introduced in 2023) marks an important engineering milestone as the first "Light Duty Series" Land Cruiser to use an electric power steering (EPS) system⁴. This innovation significantly improves maneuverability at low speeds during off-road adventures and enables the implementation of advanced driver assistance systems such as lane tracing assist⁴⁵.

6. Retro-Inspired Design Philosophy

The fifth-generation Prado (J250) features a distinctive retro-inspired, boxy exterior styling that pays homage to the iconic J60 model from the 1980s⁴. This design approach emerged from Toyota's shift in philosophy under previous CEO Akio Toyoda, focusing on "practicality, durability, and dependability" rather than just contemporary aesthetics⁴. This return to the vehicle's roots while incorporating modern design elements has helped create a unique visual identity that stands out in today's SUV market.

7. Impressive Engineering Advancements

The latest Prado models are built on the GA-F platform shared with the larger J300 series Land Cruiser, resulting in a remarkable 50% increase in frame rigidity and 30% increase in overall rigidity compared to previous generations⁴. These engineering improvements translate to enhanced durability, better handling, and superior off-road performance that continues to set the Prado apart from its competitors.

8. Advanced Off-Road Technology Package

The high-end Prado variants, particularly the Kakadu grade, feature an impressive suite of off-road technologies that many drivers might not be familiar with. These include Toyota's Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS), Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS), Crawl Control, and Multi-Terrain Select system⁷. One particularly innovative feature is the stabilizer-bar control system that allows the front stabilizer bar to be disconnected for excellent wheel articulation during off-road adventures⁵.

9. Engine Evolution Through Generations

Throughout its history, the Prado has been offered with a remarkably diverse range of engines. From the modest 2.4L-22R in the first generation to the powerful 4.7L-2UZ-FE V8 in the third generation, Toyota has continuously evolved the Prado's powertrain options². The latest models feature a 2.8-liter turbo-diesel engine that delivers 150kW of power and 500Nm of torque, enhanced with a new 48-volt "battery-assist" system to improve fuel economy⁵⁸⁷.

10. Record-Breaking Global Sales

Since 1997, the Prado has been a top seller in the SUV market worldwide, particularly popular in regions like Africa and Australia where drivers regularly navigate both urban areas and rugged terrain⁹. This global success story demonstrates the Prado's unique ability to bridge the gap between luxury urban transport and capable off-road adventurer, a balance that few other vehicles have managed to achieve so successfully.

Conclusion

The Toyota Land Cruiser Prado has earned its reputation through decades of continuous improvement, technological innovation, and steadfast reliability. From its humble beginnings as the Bundera to its current status as a global automotive icon, the Prado represents Toyota's commitment to building vehicles that can handle any challenge while providing comfort and luxury.

Whether you're planning an off-road adventure or simply need a reliable, comfortable SUV for daily use, the Toyota Prado offers an exceptional combination of capability, comfort, and prestige. And remember, if you're looking to experience the Toyota Prado's legendary performance for yourself, you can always hire one from EliteMotion Luxury (https://elitemotionluxury.com) – Nairobi's premier luxury car rental service offering both self-drive and chauffeur-driven options to meet your specific needs.