It’s one of Australia’s best-selling vehicles and soon the Toyota LandCruiser Prado will sport refreshed looks and added features.
Stopping short of the complete replacement of the current series model (as some of our automotive media colleagues were tipping), the update accounts for little more than a mid-life makeover.
Related: Quarter million sales milestone for Toyota Prado
Confirmed today by Toyota Australia, the updated Prado will appear at the Frankfurt Motor Show in coming days and then will land in dealerships locally in November.
The big change for the long-established model will be the discontinuation of the 4.0 litre V6 petrol engine.
Toyota saying less than 2% of Prados sold today are powered by the engine.
The discontinuation of the petrol is a significant break away from tradition for the model, the V6 engine has been a mainstay of the model since it was launched in Australia over 20 years ago.
The update includes no mechanical tweaks for the turbo-diesel engine, Toyota confirming the 2.8 litre unit will continue to offer 130kW/420Nm.
2018 Toyota Prado Makeover – Key Details:
- New-look front styling
- New front and rear bumper design (for better off-road clearance)
- Upgraded interior with new design for dashboard, centre console, instrument binnacle and switchgear (as seen below)
- Revised air-conditioning control panel design
- GX/GXL variants (with auto transmission) get pre-collision safety system, including emergency braking
- System also brings active cruise control and Lane Departure Alert
- Automatic high beam – now standard
While the VX grade will also pick up Blind Spot Monitor and Rear Cross Traffic Alert.
No word yet of any price increases for the 2018 Toyota Prado range, we will bring you those details when confirmed by Toyota.
Related: 2016 Toyota Prado Diesel GXL Review
Stay up to date with the latest Toyota News at behindthewheel.com.au.
I have waited for this release. Owned 3 Prado’s now - and its so little so late!
Really no 4.0 litre petrol in Australia?
I’m looking at other 4wd now
What other vehicles will you consider Steve?