Toyota launched the updated Land Cruiser Prado in India today. It is powered by a re-tuned version of the 3.0L D4-D engine  borrowed from the smaller Fortuner. Priced at Rs 52.74 Lakh (ex-showroom Bangalore), It will compete against rivals like the Mitsubishi Montero, Audi Q5, BMW X3 and the Land Rover Freelander 2.

The new model is sharper looking and comes loaded with kit. It gets a 5-speed automatic gearbox and an array of features like adaptive traction control, down-hill assist control and hill start assist will help you out when you get out of tricky situations. Kinetic dynamic suspension system, 3-zone climate control, multi information display, air suspension with ride height control, 7 airbags, parking assist and stability control.

Performance will match rivals although, the Audi Q5 makes 230bhp which is a lot higher. Its 3.0L D4-D is shared with the Fortuner and makes 171bhp and 41.4kgm of torque which is a healthy figure, but we expected some more punch considering that the Prado is a whole size bigger and heavier than the Fortuner. The Prado also comes with a full-time four-wheel-drive system (40:60 power split, front to rear, or 50:50 when you lock the centre diff) that gives it tremendous traction while off-roading.

Exterior are updated with sharper and meaner headlamps, new front grille and a revised bumper. It offers the convenience of a split tailgate like the Tucson where the glass can be opened separately or the back door as a whole. Also available is a large refrigerator between the front seats. One notable advantage is the presence of 7-seats which most of its rivals don’t offer.

With true off-road credentials and sharp looks, we expect the Land Cruiser to offer stiff competition to its rivals. Stay tuned to wOs for more.

Picture – Autocar India and BS Motoring

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