Toyota New Zealand introduced the fourth generation Land Cruiser Prado last year, but only in 3.0 litre diesel engine form. Now, it has decided to launch a petrol version, with a 206kW 4.0 litre V6 engine. As expected from something that would likely be a niche seller in the Prado range the petrol engine version is available only in top spec VX Limited grade, which essentially means it has everything except perhaps a kitchen sink.
Electronic Suspension
Starting with the running gear, the petrol Prado gets Toyota’s electronic Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System, Adaptive Variable Suspension and height adjustable rear suspension. While the last feature is handy for loading gear into the back of the Prado, the other two result in the Prado driving much more like a car than a largish SUV. Cornering levels are high, and thanks to a sports setting in the suspension the Prado really does feel sporty. It makes a change from Prado’s of old, which felt very much like trucks on road, even if they were essentially unstoppable off road.
Off Road Equipment
The new one can do the off road deeds as well, as it comes with a full time four wheel drive system with lockable Torsen centre differential and a two-speed transfer box. To help aid in off road work there’s even a display on the instrument panel that indicates to the driver which way the front wheels are pointing, which is a good feature when driving through thick mud.
High Specification for Petrol Prado
On the specification side the petrol Prado has a keyless entry and start system, 3.5mm and USB audio input jacks, Bluetooth handsfree capability, reversing camera, parking sensors, and an alarm. There are also front and side view cameras, front parking sensors, HID headlights with Adaptive Front-lighting System (AFS), three zone climate control air conditioning, front seat heaters, and leather seats with power adjustable front seats.
The petrol Prado also shares the specifications as the VX Limited diesel, such as a pre-crash safety system, dynamic radar cruise control, leather and wood grain style steering wheel, six disc CD/DVD changer with 14 speakers, satellite navigation system, cool box, front seat memory system, wood grain style console, rear seat entertainment system with 9” screen, and a tilt and slide sunroof.
As an added bonus, the Prado tested here comes with power operated folding rearmost seats, although given that there are so many easily foldable manual systems out there is seems a bit of an extravagance.
But that’s really what the petrol Prado is all about, as it has plenty of power, is ultimately as comfortable as a car to drive and ride in and has the added ability to go climb a hill. It’s almost the most expensive option in the Prado range, but it is definitely the finest.
Sam Domett - I have been a motoring journalist for over 15 years, beginning with my own website. I then moved on to the Manukau Daily News. My next job ...
