The Toyota LandCruiser Prado has long been a favorite among off-road enthusiasts, families, and global adventurers who demand reliability, comfort, and capability in one solid package. For 2025, Toyota has taken this midsize SUV to the next level, blending its off-road heritage with cutting-edge technology and modern design. In this in-depth review, we explore every detail of the all-new 2025 LandCruiser Prado — from its engine and design to performance, safety, interior features, and pricing.
Whether you’re planning a desert safari, tackling snowy mountain roads, or just commuting in comfort, this review breaks down everything you need to know about the 2025 Prado. Let’s dig in.
Table of Contents
- Introduction: What Makes the Prado Special?
- Design Evolution: Rugged Yet Refined
- Engine and Performance
- Off-Road Capabilities
- Interior and Technology
- Safety Features
- Fuel Economy
- Trim Levels and Pricing
- How It Compares to Rivals
- Final Verdict
- FAQ
1. Introduction: What Makes the Prado Special?
The LandCruiser Prado has carved out a unique spot in Toyota’s global lineup. While the full-size LandCruiser remains the go-anywhere king, the Prado offers a more accessible, mid-size alternative that retains much of the LandCruiser’s legendary durability and off-road prowess — at a more wallet-friendly price.
For 2025, Toyota has redesigned the Prado inside and out. Built on the same GA-F platform that underpins the full-size LandCruiser 300 Series, the new Prado blends toughness with modern sophistication. It’s no longer just a “rugged SUV” — it’s a tech-savvy, comfortable, and family-friendly all-rounder.
2. Design Evolution: Rugged Yet Refined
The 2025 Prado carries a bold new look that harks back to its roots. With its boxier silhouette, upright grille, and round LED headlights (on certain trims), the Prado proudly flaunts a retro-modern aesthetic. Inspired by the 1980s LandCruiser 70 Series, the design is nostalgic yet fresh — a rare balance in today’s SUV market.
Exterior Highlights:
- Square, rugged proportions for better visibility and off-road readiness
- LED lighting standard across all trims
- 18- to 20-inch wheels, depending on the trim level
- Roof rails and skid plates on off-road-oriented trims
- Available two-tone paint schemes
The design isn’t just for show. Everything about the 2025 Prado is functional — from the high ground clearance to the short overhangs that improve off-road maneuverability.
3. Engine and Performance
Under the hood, the 2025 Toyota LandCruiser Prado offers multiple powertrain options depending on the market. In the U.S. and several international markets, a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder hybrid is standard — the same powertrain seen in the 2024 Toyota Tacoma and Lexus RX.
Powertrain Specs:
- Engine: 2.4L Turbocharged I4 Hybrid (i-Force Max)
- Output: 326 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Full-time 4WD with locking center differential
This powertrain offers a fantastic blend of performance and efficiency. The electric motor adds torque down low, making the Prado feel responsive in both city and off-road driving. The 8-speed automatic is smooth and smart, offering confident shifting in all conditions.
4. Off-Road Capabilities
The LandCruiser Prado is no soft-roader. Built for tough terrain, it comes with Toyota’s full suite of off-road tech and a robust body-on-frame chassis.
Off-Road Features:
- Full-time 4WD with low-range gearing
- Center locking differential standard; available rear locker on higher trims
- Multi-Terrain Select and Crawl Control
- Skid plates, hill descent control, and terrain cameras
Thanks to its shorter wheelbase and solid articulation, the 2025 Prado excels in off-pavement driving. Whether you’re crossing rivers, climbing rocks, or navigating sand dunes, the Prado handles it with confidence.
5. Interior and Technology
Toyota hasn’t skimped on comfort. Inside, the 2025 Prado feels like a Lexus cousin — plush, spacious, and smartly designed. Materials have been upgraded, tech is modern, and ergonomics are improved.
Interior Highlights:
- 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster
- 14-inch infotainment screen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- High-quality leather and soft-touch materials
- Heated and ventilated front and rear seats (in higher trims)
- Panoramic sunroof (optional)
- Third-row seating available (depending on configuration)
Toyota’s new infotainment system is snappy and easy to use, with sharp graphics and intuitive menus. There are also physical buttons for essential functions — a nod to practical users who value simplicity.
6. Safety Features
As expected, Toyota has loaded the Prado with safety. Every 2025 model includes Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, the brand’s latest suite of driver-assist features.
Standard Safety Features:
- Adaptive cruise control
- Lane-keeping assist
- Blind-spot monitoring
- Pre-collision system with pedestrian detection
- Rear cross-traffic alert
- Parking sensors and 360-degree camera system (on upper trims)
The Prado is expected to earn top scores in global crash tests, making it a safe choice for families and adventurers alike.
7. Fuel Economy
The hybrid powertrain brings a much-needed improvement to the Prado’s fuel efficiency.
Estimated MPG (U.S. version):
- City: 22 mpg
- Highway: 27 mpg
- Combined: 24 mpg
These numbers are excellent for a mid-size, body-on-frame SUV with 4WD. Toyota has smartly balanced power with efficiency, and it pays off at the pump.
8. Trim Levels and Pricing
Toyota offers the 2025 Prado in several trims, tailored for different types of buyers.
Trim Levels (U.S. Market Example):
- Base – Rugged but essential; cloth seats, 8-inch display
- LandCruiser – Mid-grade with leatherette, advanced infotainment
- First Edition – Limited release; round headlights, leather, off-road goodies
Estimated Pricing:
- Base Trim: Starting around $55,000
- LandCruiser Trim: Around $60,000
- First Edition: $70,000+
International markets may see additional trims, including diesel variants and more basic utility-focused versions.
9. How It Compares to Rivals
The Prado doesn’t exist in a vacuum. It competes with several rugged SUVs, including:
| Model | Starting Price | Engine | Off-Road Ability | Interior Tech |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 Toyota Prado | ~$55,000 | 2.4L Turbo Hybrid | Excellent | Excellent |
| Jeep Grand Cherokee | ~$43,000 | V6 or 4xe Hybrid | Good | Excellent |
| Ford Bronco | ~$41,000 | 2.3L / 2.7L Turbo | Excellent | Moderate |
| Land Rover Defender 110 | ~$60,000 | Multiple options | Excellent | High-end |
While more expensive than some rivals, the Prado offers unmatched long-term reliability and a balanced package of power, efficiency, and durability.
10. Final Verdict
The 2025 Toyota LandCruiser Prado is not just a facelift — it’s a full-on evolution. With its updated platform, hybrid powertrain, and feature-rich interior, the Prado finally feels like a truly modern SUV without losing its core identity. It’s rugged enough to tackle remote trails, refined enough for daily driving, and packed with the latest safety and infotainment tech.
Whether you’re a seasoned off-roader, a family in need of a durable three-row SUV, or someone who just wants a vehicle that can do it all — the Prado is worth every penny.
11. FAQ
Q: Is the 2025 Prado available in the U.S.?
Yes, though it may be branded simply as “LandCruiser” without the “Prado” name in some regions.
Q: Does the Prado come with diesel engines?
In some international markets, yes. However, the U.S. model currently offers only the hybrid gas engine.
Q: Is the Prado good for daily use?
Absolutely. While it’s built for off-roading, it’s just as comfortable and practical for urban driving.
Q: Can it tow?
Yes — the Prado can tow up to 6,000 pounds when properly equipped.
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