Toyota Land Cruiser Prado: Toyota has revealed a new version of its popular SUV – the Land Cruiser Prado Mild Hybrid. This updated model brings together the strength and bold looks of the traditional Prado with new-age hybrid technology for better fuel efficiency and lower emissions. Toyota is slowly moving towards more eco-friendly vehicles, and this launch proves their commitment.
Overview of the New Prado Mild Hybrid
The new Toyota Land Cruiser Prado Mild Hybrid is a mix of traditional SUV ruggedness and modern efficiency. While the classic Prado is known for its off-road ability and luxury features, the mild hybrid version adds a small electric motor to assist the petrol engine. This helps in better fuel economy, smoother acceleration, and less pollution.
Design & Style
The new Prado continues to look strong and bold. It has a boxy shape, big LED headlights, a new grille, and wide wheel arches. The design is very similar to the bigger Land Cruiser 300, but the Prado is slightly smaller and easier to manage.
From the side, it looks muscular with large 18 or 20-inch wheels. At the back, there’s a clean tailgate and sharp tail lights. Toyota has made sure that the Prado looks premium but still keeps its tough, off-road style.
Inside, the Prado offers a well-laid-out cabin. There’s a large touchscreen display, digital instrument cluster, soft leather seats, and enough space for up to 7 passengers. The interior is both practical and luxurious.
Engine & Mild Hybrid System
The biggest highlight of the new Land Cruiser Prado is its mild hybrid powertrain. Toyota has used a 2.4-litre turbocharged petrol engine combined with a 48V mild hybrid system. This system includes a small electric motor and a battery, which helps the engine during start-stop situations and low-speed driving.
This combination gives better fuel efficiency and lower CO2 emissions without losing the strong power that SUV lovers expect.
Engine Details:
- 2.4L turbo-petrol engine
- 48V mild hybrid system
- Around 330hp power output
- 8-speed automatic transmission
The power is sent to all four wheels through a full-time 4WD system, which is great for off-road driving.
Overview Table – Toyota Prado Mild Hybrid
Feature | Details |
Engine | 2.4-litre turbo-petrol |
Hybrid System | 48V mild hybrid |
Power Output | Approx. 330 hp |
Transmission | 8-speed automatic |
Drive Type | 4WD (Four-Wheel Drive) |
Fuel Efficiency | Improved over regular petrol |
Seating Capacity | 5 to 7 (depending on variant) |
Infotainment System | Touchscreen with Android/Apple |
Safety Features | ADAS, 7 airbags, parking sensors |
Launch Date (Global) | 2024 end or early 2025 |
Performance & Off-Road Capability
Even though it has a hybrid system, the Prado has not lost its off-road nature. It still comes with a high ground clearance, strong suspension, and multiple drive modes like Rock, Mud, and Sand. These help in difficult terrains.
The mild hybrid system doesn’t affect its performance. Instead, it makes the SUV feel smoother and lighter, especially in city traffic and slow-moving areas.
Features & Technology
Toyota has packed the new Prado with lots of modern features, such as:
- A 12.3-inch touchscreen with Android Auto & Apple CarPlay
- Fully digital driver display
- Wireless charging pad
- Heated and ventilated seats
- Powered front seats with memory function
In terms of safety, it includes:
- Toyota Safety Sense (ADAS features like lane assist, emergency braking)
- 7 airbags
- Traction control
- Hill-start assist
- Rear camera and parking sensors
Expected Price & Launch
Though the official India launch is not confirmed yet, globally, the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado Mild Hybrid is expected to go on sale by late 2024 or early 2025. If launched in India, the expected price could be around ₹85 lakh to ₹1 crore (ex-showroom), depending on the variant.
Conclusion
The Toyota Land Cruiser Prado Mild Hybrid is a smart move by Toyota. It combines the toughness and reliability of the Prado with better fuel economy and eco-friendliness through its mild hybrid system. This SUV will be ideal for those who want a powerful vehicle for long drives, off-road adventures, and city travel, all while being a little more environment-friendly. If Toyota launches it in India, it will surely be a big hit among SUV fans.