toyota prado
Used Car Review

Overview

When you need a proper seven-seater that won’t flinch at muddy campsites or steep boat ramps, few vehicles deliver like the toyota prado. This isn’t just another family SUV masquerading as an off-roader – it’s built to tackle genuine adventures whilst comfortably shuttling the school run during the week.

The Prado’s greatest strength lies in its versatility. The diesel engine provides ample torque for towing heavy loads, whilst the intelligent four-wheel-drive system adapts to everything from wet motorways to rocky trails. Inside, seven adults can travel in reasonable comfort, though the third row works best for children on longer journeys. When you’re not carrying passengers, those rear seats fold completely flat to create a cavernous load bay.

Reliability forms the cornerstone of the Prado’s appeal. Toyota’s reputation for building vehicles that simply refuse to break down runs particularly deep with this model. Yes, fuel costs will be higher than a conventional estate car, and the initial purchase price reflects the robust engineering underneath. However, strong resale values and Toyota’s extensive dealer network help offset these concerns. For families who genuinely need the space, capability and dependability the Prado offers, few alternatives match its blend of everyday usability and weekend adventure potential.

What's the Toyota Prado Like to Drive?

The Toyota Land Cruiser Prado typically comes with either a 2.8 litre diesel or 4.0 litre petrol engine. The diesel provides excellent torque for towing and off road driving. Acceleration feels adequate rather than exciting, with the focus clearly on capability over speed.

Four wheel drive comes as standard, with multiple terrain modes for different surfaces. The Prado excels when the tarmac ends, offering genuine rock crawling ability. On road, the ride quality impresses despite the rugged underpinnings.

The six speed automatic gearbox works smoothly in most situations. Manual override provides more control when tackling steep inclines or descents. This large SUV feels reassuringly planted at motorway speeds.

Inside the Toyota Prado: Comfort & Features

The cabin feels spacious and well built throughout. Front seats offer good support for long journeys. The driving position suits most body types, with plenty of adjustment available.

Second row passengers enjoy generous legroom and headroom. The third row works best for children or occasional adult use. All seats fold flat to create a massive load bay when required.

Interior materials feel durable rather than luxurious. Hard wearing plastics dominate, but everything fits together precisely. The dashboard layout remains logical and user friendly. Noise levels stay reasonable considering the Toyota Highlander based platform.

The prado excels with exhilarating performance matched by refined comfort, creating a driving experience that exceeds expectations in every way.

Nicholas Zapolski Car Expert

How Much Does It Cost to Run a Toyota Prado?

Fuel economy figures reflect the Prado’s size and weight. Expect around 30mpg from the diesel engine under normal driving conditions. The petrol version returns considerably less, making the diesel the sensible choice for most buyers.

Insurance costs can be significant due to the vehicle’s value and repair expenses. Servicing should be straightforward at any Toyota dealer. Parts availability remains excellent thanks to Toyota’s global presence.

Depreciation rates tend to be slower than many competitors. The Prado’s reputation for reliability helps maintain strong resale values. For buyers considering finance options, this provides additional peace of mind.

Toyota Prado Practicality & Boot Space

Seven seats provide flexibility for larger families or those needing occasional extra capacity. With all seats in use, luggage space becomes limited. Folding the third row creates a generous load area.

The high driving position offers excellent visibility in all directions. Wide door openings ease access to all three rows. Storage compartments throughout the cabin help keep smaller items organized.

Towing capacity reaches 3000kg when properly equipped, making light work of caravans or trailers. The robust construction inspires confidence when hauling heavy loads. For buyers interested in used Toyota options, the Prado represents the pinnacle of the range.

The Toyota Land Cruiser Prado delivers where it matters most: reliability, capability, and practicality. While fuel costs and initial purchase price may deter some buyers, the long term ownership experience typically proves rewarding.

This SUV suits families who genuinely need seven seats and off road ability. The robust construction and Toyota’s reputation provide confidence for years of dependable service. Consider the Prado for adventure focused families seeking proven reliability.