Toyota Prado 2018 Petrol vs Diesel: A Comprehensive Comparison

The Toyota Land Cruiser Prado has maintained its position as one of the most respected mid-size SUVs in the market, offering a blend of luxury, ruggedness, and versatility. The 2018 model introduced significant updates including a refreshed exterior, enhanced interior features, and equipment upgrades across the model range. For prospective buyers, one of the most critical decisions is choosing between the petrol and diesel engine options. This comprehensive analysis explores the differences, advantages, and disadvantages of both powertrains to help you make an informed decision.

Model Overview and Updates

The 2018 Toyota Prado received substantial updates while maintaining its reputation for durability and off-road capability. The range saw price reductions between $600 and $1200 depending on the variant, making it even more competitive in the large SUV segment where it has consistently been a best-seller¹. The 2018 refresh brought a new look, updated interior, and added equipment across most models in the range.

Available in multiple trim levels including GX, GXL, VX, and Kakadu, the Prado offers various configurations to suit different needs and budgets. Both petrol and diesel variants share the same robust platform, featuring a permanent four-wheel-drive system with electronically engaged low range for superior off-road capability².

Engine Specifications and Performance

Diesel Engine

The 2018 Prado diesel comes equipped with a 2.8-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine (codenamed 1GD-FTV). Early 2018 models produced 130kW of power at 3400 rpm and 450Nm of torque between 1400-2800 rpm². Later in the production cycle, Toyota enhanced this engine to deliver 150kW and 500Nm of torque, providing even better performance and towing capability².

The diesel engine is paired with either a six-speed manual transmission (producing 420Nm of torque in this configuration) or a six-speed automatic transmission with the full 450Nm torque output³. The combination delivers a claimed fuel consumption of 7.9L/100km in combined driving conditions³.

Petrol Engine

The petrol variant features a 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine (codenamed 2TR-FE) producing 120kW at peak power and 246Nm of torque⁴⁵. This engine comes mated to a six-speed automatic transmission and, while offering less torque than its diesel counterpart, provides a smoother, more responsive driving experience particularly in urban environments⁶.

The petrol engine accelerates from 0-100 km/h in approximately 13.5 seconds and reaches a top speed of around 170 km/h⁴. While these figures aren't particularly impressive for a large SUV, the petrol Prado isn't designed for speed but rather reliability and capability.

Fuel Economy and Range

Diesel Efficiency

One of the diesel Prado's greatest strengths is its fuel efficiency. With a consumption rate of approximately 7.9-9L/100km in combined driving conditions³⁷, it offers significant savings over the petrol variant. This efficiency, combined with the Prado's substantial fuel capacity—an 80-liter main tank plus an optional 30-liter sub-tank⁸—provides an impressive range that makes it ideal for long-distance touring or off-road adventures in remote areas.

Petrol Consumption

The 2.7L petrol engine is considerably less efficient, with fuel consumption typically around 12-14L/100km in combined driving scenarios⁴⁶. In urban environments with frequent stops and starts, this can increase to 18-20L/100km⁶. This higher consumption significantly reduces the effective range despite having the same tank capacity as the diesel model.

Maintenance and Reliability Considerations

Diesel Maintenance

Diesel engines generally require more frequent and potentially more expensive maintenance. The turbocharger, high-pressure fuel injection system, and emissions control equipment add complexity that can lead to higher service costs⁹. Moreover, diesel engines are particularly sensitive to fuel quality, and in regions where adulterated diesel is common, owners may face issues with injectors and other components¹⁰.

As one owner notes on a forum discussion, "Diesel engines 'die' faster than petrol engines and so have a shorter lifespan"⁹. However, with proper maintenance and quality fuel, modern diesel engines like the 1GD-FTV can be quite reliable.

Petrol Maintenance

The petrol engine in the Prado is renowned for its simplicity and reliability. With fewer complex components than the diesel, the 2.7L petrol engine typically has lower service costs and fewer potential failure points⁶. Many owners describe the petrol engine as "bulletproof," noting that "the 1GR is also insanely easy to service"⁶.

In a forum discussion, one user stated, "Both the petrol and diesel should last beyond 300,000km with regular maintenance"⁶, indicating that with proper care, either option can provide long-term service.

Off-Road Performance

Diesel Off-Road Capability

The diesel Prado excels in challenging off-road conditions that demand consistent torque at low speeds. The substantial torque output provides excellent control when navigating steep inclines, rock crawling, or maneuvering through mud. The diesel engine also offers superior engine braking when descending steep gradients, adding an extra layer of control and safety in difficult terrain⁶.

With a ground clearance of 205-220mm⁸¹¹ and a sophisticated four-wheel-drive system, the diesel Prado is exceptionally capable off the beaten path. The 2018 model features technologies like Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS)⁸, which enhances wheel articulation and traction on uneven surfaces.

Petrol Off-Road Performance

While the petrol Prado may lack the low-end torque of its diesel sibling, it performs surprisingly well in certain off-road conditions. According to owner experiences, the petrol engine is particularly adept at sand driving due to its more responsive nature and higher-revving characteristics⁶. As one owner put it, "The petrol is a bit thirstier, bone stock I could get 10-11L/100km on the freeway, now with 2" lift, 32" AT tyres, bullbar, lights and an awning I get around 13-14L/100km"⁶.

For those who primarily engage in recreational off-roading rather than extreme challenges, the petrol variant offers adequate capability with the benefit of simpler maintenance.

Towing Capacity

Diesel Towing

The diesel Prado has a braked towing capacity of 2500kg³, making it well-suited for towing caravans, boats, or trailers. The high torque output at low rpm allows for effortless towing without straining the engine, maintaining reasonable fuel economy even under load.

Petrol Towing

While the petrol Prado can still handle towing duties, its lower torque output means it has to work considerably harder when pulling heavy loads. This results in significantly increased fuel consumption and potentially more strain on the drivetrain. However, for lighter towing duties, the petrol engine performs adequately, with one owner noting, "I can easily get the FJ up to 140km an hour to overtake road trains with my light trailer for camping (750kg rated + 300kg weight of trailer itself)"⁶.

Driving Experience

Diesel Driving Characteristics

The diesel Prado offers a relaxed driving experience with plenty of torque for effortless cruising. The engine is at its best when driven at low to mid rpm ranges, where it provides steady power without requiring frequent gear changes. Highway cruising is comfortable and efficient, though some drivers find the diesel engine less engaging in spirited driving scenarios.

One forum user described the diesel as feeling "asthmatic on the freeway, struggles to overtake"⁶, suggesting that despite its torque advantage, the diesel may not deliver the kind of responsive acceleration some drivers prefer.

Petrol Driving Experience

The petrol engine provides a more conventional driving experience that many find more enjoyable for everyday use. It's quieter, especially when cold, and delivers power in a more linear fashion. The higher-revving nature of the petrol engine makes it feel more responsive in urban driving.

As one owner succinctly put it, "The petrol is way nicer to drive. Heaps more pickup (which you'd expect given it has ~50% more power)"⁶. This responsiveness can make the petrol Prado more satisfying in everyday driving scenarios, particularly in urban environments.

Cost Considerations

Initial Purchase Price

Diesel variants of the Prado typically command a price premium of several thousand dollars over equivalent petrol models. This price difference needs to be factored into the overall cost equation when making a purchase decision.

Running Costs

While the diesel offers better fuel economy, diesel fuel prices vary by region, which may affect the cost calculation. Additionally, servicing costs for diesel engines are generally higher due to more expensive oils, filters, and potential issues with complex components like injectors and turbochargers⁶¹⁰.

One forum user summarized this trade-off: "Diesel gives slightly better consumption, but you'll have to do the math on your end to consider if it works out cheaper (I'd say that going diesel doesn't offer any significant savings as you pay more for fuel and servicing)"⁶.

Resale Value

Interestingly, despite the popularity of diesel engines in the 4WD market, there's evidence that petrol Prados may hold their value better in the long term. As noted by a car dealer quoted in one of the search results, "In the longer-term though, petrol engines have a better resale value than diesel engines"⁹. This could be due to the lower complexity and perceived higher long-term reliability of the petrol engine, as well as lower repair costs for high-mileage vehicles.

Which Variant Is Right For You?

Choose the Diesel Prado if:

• You regularly drive long distances where fuel efficiency matters
• You frequently tow heavy loads
• You often venture into remote areas where range is critical
• You regularly tackle challenging off-road terrain that requires low-end torque
• You're willing to pay higher upfront and maintenance costs for better efficiency

Choose the Petrol Prado if:

• You primarily use the vehicle for urban and suburban driving
• You prioritize lower maintenance costs and long-term reliability
• You prefer a more responsive driving experience
• You frequently drive in sandy conditions
• You don't regularly tow heavy loads
• The higher fuel consumption isn't a concern given your driving habits

Conclusion

The choice between the 2018 Toyota Prado petrol and diesel variants ultimately depends on your specific needs, driving habits, and preferences. The diesel offers superior fuel efficiency, torque, and range, making it ideal for long-distance touring, frequent towing, and serious off-roading. The petrol, meanwhile, provides a more responsive and potentially more reliable option with lower maintenance costs, better suited to urban driving and recreational off-road use.

As with any significant purchase, it's advisable to test drive both variants to experience the differences firsthand. Consider your typical driving scenarios, maintenance budget, and long-term ownership plans when making your decision. With either engine choice, the 2018 Toyota Prado offers exceptional capability, comfort, and reliability that have made it a perennial favorite in the mid-size SUV segment.

Toyota Prado 2018 Petrol vs Diesel: Detailed Comparison Table