Review: 2024 Toyota LandCruiser Prado Altitude

It’s been 14 years since Toyota introduced a new LandCruiser Prado model, but the wait is over.

The fifth generation of this icon is back to reclaim its position as Australia’s favourite large SUV.

To really see what the new 250 series Toyota LandCruiser Prado is about, we took it on a weekend adventure to Gordon Country, to test what it is like around the city, on long drives and offroad.

To say it impressed me would be an understatement.

Initial Impressions

The Prado has had a major overhaul and looks significantly different to the outgoing model. This new design, however, draws heavily from the history of iconic LandCruiser models.

The box-shaped cabin with the wider arched fenders not only looks fantastic but is a nod to the FJ40 LandCruiser of the 1960s. At the same time, hints of the BJ70 LandCruiser from the 1980s can be found at the front and the rear.

If you are not a LandCruiser tragic, what does this all mean? It means this new Prado is one of the best-looking SUVs on the current market.

Slight differences in the exterior design can be found between the various trim levels with the GX, GXL & Altitude (featured for this review) featuring a heritage grille, whereas the VX and Kakadu come with a slat-style grille similar to the outgoing generation.

The first thing you notice when sitting inside the cabin is its spaciousness.

It feels like some sort of magic trick because the Prado does not feel like a big car to drive. However, inside it feels like one of the most spacious interiors we have reviewed.

The fit and finish of the interior are up to Toyota’s usual standard with premium leather and soft touch points. Just like the exterior, the interior has a heritage-inspired feel with the layout and button design, but with a modern twist thanks to the digital dashboard and 12.3” Touchscreen display.

Driveability

This new Prado model is built on the same platform as its larger sibling, the 300 Series LandCruiser meaning the Prado is now stronger and more rigid, a quality that became apparent during off-road testing, making the tracks easier and more comfortable.

Now powered by a new 2.8-litre turbo-diesel engine, this new Prado creates the same power and torque as the outgoing model, 150kW of power and 500Nm of torque. However, due to other enhancements, the towing capacity has increased to 3500kg.

Toyota has also included a 48-volt lithium-ion battery as part of their new V-Active technology. This has helped reduce the fuel consumption from the outgoing model to 7.6L/100km. For those offroading, this generator is mounted high in the engine bay to ensure the Prado retains its impressive 700mm wading depth.

To avoid slippage in wet conditions, it is driven by a high-strength belt with a two-arm tensioner and a layer of fabric on the rib side. The Altitude variant tested in this review also comes with sway bar disconnect, making this one capable offroader.

Once you get back on the paved road you forget you are driving a thoroughbred offroader. The drive is comfortable, the cabin is quiet, the steering is light and the Prado has a practical turning circle. You would think you are driving a smaller SUV from the Toyota range. You do get the best of both worlds.

The diesel particulate filter (DPF) has been removed from the new Prado, meaning that AdBlue is now required. Although it may seem like an inconvenience for owners of the previous Prado transitioning to the newer model, AdBlue helps improve both fuel efficiency and engine performance, as well as reducing engine wear.

Liveability

Due to the long shelf life of the outgoing Prado, the interior started to fall behind the competition. This new 250 Series LandCruiser Prado places the Toyota back at the top.

Inside you are met with the latest technology including a digital dashboard, 12.3” Touchscreen display, wireless charging pad, as well as wireless Apple CarPlay and wireless Android Auto.

The Prado is fitted with the latest safety technology including a pre-collision safety system, lane departure alert, road sign assist and dynamic radar cruise control. Due to increasing regulations, these safety features are becoming more and more common but where the Toyota stands out is these systems assist with driving and are not intrusive. They are there as a safety net in the background and do not interfere with the driving experience.

To cater for all family needs, the Prado is available in both 5 and 7-seats with all 7-seat models coming with 3-zone climate control as standard.

A lot has been said about the layout of the boot on the new Prado which has been designed to accommodate the battery for the V-Active technology. While the layout may seem slightly awkward, the reality is that the boot space to the third row has increased from 120 litres to 130 litres.

Cost

The LandCruiser Prado is available in five different trim levels all with the same engine and drivetrain.

The entry level 5-seat GX starts at $77,313 driveaway from Motorama Toyota but if you are after 7 seats you need to jump up to the GXL which starts at $85,435 driveaway. For the extra money not only do you get two extra seats, but you also get rear privacy glass, roof rails, and heated and ventilated seats.

Another step up to the mid-spec VX gets you leather accented seats, a 12.3” infotainment system (GX & GXL come with a 7” infotainment system), multi-terrain select and monitor, two additional driving modes for $93,246 driveaway.

At the premium end of the range, you have the off-road-oriented 5-seat Altitude from $98,705 driveaway and the luxe 7-seat Kakadu from $108,226.

There is a range of colour choices for the Prado with the various premium paints ranging in price from $696 to $1,726.

Conclusion

The fifth-generation Toyota LandCruiser Prado redefines what a large SUV can be, blending heritage-inspired design with cutting-edge technology and unmatched versatility.

Whether you're navigating city streets, embarking on long-distance drives, or conquering challenging off-road terrain, the Prado proves capable in every scenario. With its refined interior, enhanced drivability, and a host of modern safety and convenience features, it sets a new benchmark in its class.

For families, adventurers, or anyone seeking a reliable and capable vehicle, the new Prado proves why it continues to be a beloved icon in Australia’s SUV market. While the wait was long, it was unquestionably worth it.

If you've been waiting for the new model to hit the streets or are looking to get into an off-road capable family vehicle, speak to the team at Motorama Toyota about the all-new Landcruiser Prado, or book a test drive today.