More powerful, more fuel efficient - and including for the first time a three-door model - Toyota's all-new fourth-generation Prado presents an imposing 14-variant lineup.
And here's a sign of the times - even with petrol-engined models boasting a new, highly efficient dual VVT-i 4.0-litre V6 delivering 202kW of power, Toyota predicts more than 80 per cent of new Prados sold will be powered by the turbo-diesel engine.
Prado delivers a massive list of standard features and takes a substantial step forward compared to the previous generation but that comes at a price.
Toyota says it delivers new value standards for the segment, but the fact is entry to the new lineup (GX turbo-diesel 5-door and SX turbo-diesel three-door) is $55,990. Both feature electronic aids such as ABS anti-lock brakes, stability control, uphill/downhill assist, air-conditioning and seven airbags.
Prado's range-topper is the five-door Kakadu turbo-diesel now priced at $88,990.
Five door models have four model grades - GX, GXL, VX and Kakadu - while the three-door lineup has two grades - SX and ZR. GX is standard as a five seater - the third row is optional.
Externally, Prado has grown 80mm longer, 10mm wider and 15mm lower than its predecessor and the all-new styling introduces some noticeable curves. But Prado is no Nancy-Boy with plenty of cues from the LandCruiser to give it a tough, purposeful look. The side-opening luggage compartment door and externally-mounted spare wheel remain.
Aerodynamics have improved with front and rear spoilers, front spats, under body covers and deflectors all part of the good-looking new styling and contributing to the drag coefficient dropping to 0.35Cd.
Prado is available in a choice of nine exterior colours of which six are new.
Inside is all-new. Five-door models have a sliding second row seat and a fold-flat third row seat (the current model's third row folds against the side windows). Seat operation is electrically powered on VX and Kakadu variants. There are four new audio systems all with iPod control, Bluetooth hands-free connectivity, USB and 3.5mm audio inputs. Kakadu models gain a rear-seat entertainment system with a backlit nine-inch LED monitor.
VX, Kakadu and ZR models feature Toyota's new four-camera Multi-Terrain Monitor (MTM) with images displayed on the center console touch screen. The front camera affords a 190-degree field of view from the radiator grille for extra vision during tough ascents while the side cameras have different views for off-road and parking situations.
Driver assistance technology is breathtaking, including the new Multi-Terrain Select (MTS) system allowing drivers to simply select 'Mud & Sand'; 'Loose Rock'; 'Mogul' or 'Rock' plus of course high-range or low-range.
Prado three-door is only sold with the 3.0-litre turbocharged common-rail direct-injection diesel while Prado five-door offers both the diesel powerplant and the 4.0-litre dual VVT-I V6 petrol engine. Two transmissions are available - a six-speed manual or a five-speed sequential-shift automatic.
The petrol V6 delivers maximum power of 202kW at 5600rpm and peak torque of 381Nm at 4,400rpm. Toyota's four-cylinder diesel is good for 127kW/410Nm.
The petrol engine returns combined cycle fuel economy as low as 11.5l/100kms while the diesel is rated at 8.5l/100kms. Prado five door retains its twin fuel tanks with a capacity of 150 litres while the three-door has an 87 litre tank.
Toyota claims 44 per cent of Prado owners take their vehicles off-road at least once per month so the extra 4WD technology and improved breakover/departure angles of the new model will be appreciated.
Towing is another Prado strong point with many used to drag large caravans, boat trailers and horse floats. For the Prado five-door the towing capacity is 2500kgs and the three-door is rated at 3,000kgs.
Prado looks set to continue its massive popularity in Australia. The model has led the medium SUV segment for all but one year since it first appeared in 1997.
