2024 Toyota Land Cruiser Prado: Key Features and US Release Details

Fans of the Toyota Land Cruiser nameplate have a lot to look forward to this year. Toyota announced that the new 2024 Prado 250 Series will hit the North American markets in August of 2024.

Overview of the 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser Prado

The Land Cruiser was introduced to the States in 1958, and while it wasn’t a stellar seller, it gave Americans a glimpse of what would become an off-road icon.

The Prado has worn its name since 1984 and is billed as a light-duty full-sized 4WD. If the name Prado seems foreign, the Lexus GX and the 4Runner may be more familiar to American ears. They are the same vehicle with different branding, and while the rest of the world may know what a Prado is, Americans have never seen a Prado badge on their car lots.

Even now, while the Prado 250 Series is entering the Japanese marketplace, the North American version still lacks a Prado or a 250 Series name on any of the newest vehicles. In North America, Toyota chose to name the Prado the “Land Cruiser” since it’s a more recognizable name to those in America.

This new version is not to be confused with the Land Cruiser 300 Series that’s available in places like Australia and UAE, but not in the United States. Much of the disparity in distribution has to do with regulation requirements found in the States and Canada, as well as the cost of trying to compete in a saturated luxury SUV market. However, the 300 Series is a much bigger vehicle than the new Land Cruisers headed to the States, so the new version is more competitive in the Ford Bronco and Jeep Wrangler arenas.

2024 Major Changes

The change to the 2024 version of the Land Cruiser is not only in its size but also in its upscale high-tech features and lower price tag. Whereas the last 200 Series in 2021 was at the upper end of the price scale, the new Land Cruiser is closer to the mid-50s rather than nudging the 100K mark.

With fresh new technologies, Toyota sweetened the deal with the introduction of a new hybrid engine for a blast of power that keeps with its off-road roots while being more Earth-friendly.

New Land Cruiser 250 Series, Prado Revision

The Prado revision (250 Series) has also been brought back to Japan with a move “back to basics” that targets the family-oriented consumer with a taste for adventure. Likewise, the U.S. version is also a family vehicle that is just as happy on the top of a plateau as it is between the white lines on a highway.

Mike Tripp, V.P. of Toyota Marketing, states that the new Land Cruiser exceeded their expectations by maintaining its legendary capability while lowering the price point and equipping it with creature comforts and more trail maneuverability. That appeals to a lot of people who may have shied away from the Land Cruiser in the past due to its size and price. Maybe the new Prado 250 Series Land Cruiser will create a buzz with budding off-road enthusiasts with a little money to spend and a lot of free time to explore the world.

Evolution to the 250 Series

The Toyota Prado has seen four generations come and go and has been known as the J70, J90, J120, J150, and now the J250. The key that ties these models together is the fact they are light-duty SUVs that are people-focused.

History and Evolution of the Land Cruiser Prado

The First Generation – 70 Series (1984-1996)

Compared to its heavy-duty origins, this Land Cruiser version was created for those who wanted the legendary off-road capabilities in a more manageable vehicle. Toyota focused on comfort and ease of use without losing any of the outback toughness. The early models were boxy and simple, and they were mounted on solid axles with coil springs that added more comfort to the ride.

Second Generation – 90 Series (1996-2002)

Toyota refined the Prado for a more modern look in this generation. There was the addition of an independent front suspension that made off-roading better handling. The engines were updated, and the interiors were more comfort-oriented rather than utilitarian.

Third Generation – 120 Series (2002-2009)

This generation was focused on moving the Prado’s reputation forward as a comfortable, yet practical, SUV. These vehicles had better safety features and more sophisticated traction control systems. They were restyled for a more aerodynamic appearance, which would indicate they were leaning more towards highway driving, and the engine options included diesel and gas in most of the world.

Fourth Generation – 150 Series (2009-2024)

The fourth generation had an aggressive exterior appearance and better fuel efficiency. It also had the most current high-tech safety features available including pre-collision sensors and a multi-terrain select. The off-road capabilities were enhanced to include Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System and CRAWL Control.

Fifth Generation – 250 Series (2024-Present)

This brings us to the most current Prado lineup that has been considered its pinnacle of evolution. The engine lineup is more powerful and economical, and the advanced driver’s systems are state-of-the-art. This is the first time a hybrid option has been offered to some markets, which includes Japan, but it’s the only choice for the American car buyer. Likewise, the Japan version features the tough diesel found in previous Prado models, as well as the HiAce.

Brand Changes to the 250 Prado

With the addition of the hybrid engine, Toyota signals its commitment to the environment, which is extremely popular in many countries, including the U.S. The introduction of the hybrid engine places the Prado (250 Series) in the current competitive SUV market. Pricing in the mid $50,000 mark in the U.S. gives it a solid advantage over the average price of $70,000 for luxury-minded SUVs. While the new Prado may not be as competitive in the luxury interior category, it is no slouch either.

Evaluation and Expectations in Major Markets

Toyota has placed itself in the middle of the SUV market with a name that people recognize. In North America, it will be on the Toyota lot as a Land Cruiser with three trim levels as opposed to in the Lexus dealer showroom as a GX. Historically, Toyota has added the Land Cruiser to the American market under the Lexus badge with considerable success.

Now, Toyota is rebranding the Land Cruiser and opening up the market to people who may not even look at a Lexus due to pricing. It helps that brand recognition of Toyota will bring more people to the dealerships where they may “accidentally” see a new Land Cruiser.

Design and Exterior

The new Land Cruiser design is a nod to the past that will give fans a touch of nostalgia when they see the new Land Cruiser for the first time.

Refined Functionality

Toyota reached back to the original Prado and designed this iteration with the same boxy appearance and flat roof that many recognize, as well as a return to the TOYOTA grille emblem and short overhangs on the roof line. You will even find a return to the round headlights on the 1958 and First Edition models, while the Land Cruiser model bears a set of slim, rectangular headlights as seen in the 60 Series. The A-pillar was pushed back and the beltline was lowered. All of these changes are more than a nostalgic turn; they make the new Land Cruiser more functional on the trail by improving visibility.

Color Selections

The color selections are on the simple side with a focus more on off-road colors rather than the flashy colors you might see on the Camry, Supra, or Corolla where Supersonic Red means sporty and fast. The Land Cruiser colors mean dependable and rugged.

• The 1958 is available in three basic colors: Black, Meteor Shower, Ice Cap
• The Land Cruiser model (mid-range trimline) is available in monotone and duotone colors: Duotone – Trail Dust / Grayscape and Heritage Blue / Grayscape. Monotone – Black, Chill Pearl, Meteor Shower, Ice Cap, and Underground
• The Limited Edition – top-of-the-line – is available in monotone and duotone colors: Duotone – Trail Dust / Grayscape and Heritage Blue / Grayscape. Monotone – Black and Meteor Shower.

While there’s no flashy red, the simple colors bear a mark of sophistication, especially in the duotone combinations.

Dimensions and Specifications

The new Land Cruiser is a bit larger than the 200 Series but is slightly smaller than the 300 Series. The 300 Series is 196 inches long and 76 inches high, and the 250 Series is 73 inches high and 193 inches long.

Interior and Comfort

The new Land Cruiser doesn’t have third-row seats, so seating is restricted to 5 in the U.S. version, mostly due to the hybrid power; however, the Japanese models have a 7-person capacity.

Drivers and passengers will enjoy 36 inches of headroom, 33 inches of legroom, 58 inches of shoulder room, and 55 inches of hip room for both rows in all models.

There is a gross cargo volume of 37.5 cubic feet and a gross vehicle weight rating of 6,275 pounds in the 1958 and Land Cruiser model, and a GVWR of 6,835 pounds in the First Edition.

Practicality

Toyota made the interior space practical with everything within reach, and all of the instrumentation is easy to see and read.

• The base model 1958 has heated cloth seats, automatic climate control, and a 7-inch digital dash display as standard equipment.
• The mid-level Land Cruiser upgrades the display to a 12.3-inch color screen, adds a power liftgate to the back, and for sound, there’s a 10-speaker audio system. Toyota also added a Stabilizer Disconnect Mechanism (SDM), a Multi-Terrain Monitor (MTM), and a Multi-Terrain Select (MTS) system for off-road adventures. There is a premium upgrade package available for this level that includes leather-trimmed seats, a power moonroof, and a center console coolbox to keep your drinks cold and refreshing at the end of the trail.
• The First Edition gets all of the above-mentioned equipment plus roof racks, rock rails, and a front skid plate, as well as a 14-speaker JBL sound system.

Generous Cargo and Versatile Seating

When it comes to cargo space, the second row folds down to give you lots of room for your gear. Since it’s a split seat, you can drop a portion of the seat for longer gear and still have room for a passenger.

Performance and Engine

This is where the new Land Cruiser takes a hard turn away from the more traditional diesels. Toyota introduces us to the new hybrid: the i-FORCE MAX in the U.S. models. The Japanese models are equipped with either the diesel 1GC-FTV 2.8L direct injection turbo with an 8-speed automatic or the 2TR-FE 2.7L gas-powered 4-cylinder married to a 6-speed Super ECT.

Engine Options and Specifications

If you’re thinking that a hybrid is going to be a wimpy engine, you would be wrong. This 4-cylinder is capable of 326 horses and 465 pounds of torque. Combine that power with Toyota’s legendary off-road technologies, and you have a hill climber.

When it comes to the Japan models, the 1GD-FTV diesel delivers 368 horses at 1,600 to 2,800 RPMs, and the 2TR-FE offers 158 horsepower at 5,200 RPMs and 186 pounds of torque.

Off-Road Capabilities

It wouldn’t be a Land Cruiser if it didn’t excel at off-road adventures. Sitting on 18-inch wheels, the new Prado has full-time 4WD with center and rear locking differentials, as well as a 2.4Lturbo alongside the electric motor and i-FORCE MAX powertrain and 8-speed automatic transmission.

The rear lock splits the power 50/50 and an added stabilizer bar disconnect mechanism increases the flex in the suspension to get you up and over. The Multi-Terrain Select is now available in both 4WD H and 4WD L to keep the wheel spin to a minimum when powering through dirt and mud.

You’ll find the Crawl Control function is a great low-speed cruise control, and Toyota decreased the overhang for a greater approach. It has a 31-degree approach, a 25-degree breakover, and a 22-degree departure angle. Motortrend says the grip and precision make it surprisingly fun to drive on the roads.

Toyota put the new Land Cruiser on the TNGA-F global truck platform, so you get superb handling, like found in the Tundra or Tacoma, as well as a smooth and comfortable ride. It is capable of towing up to 6,000 pounds.

Safety Features and Technology

When it comes to safety, Toyota’s safety features set the pace for all of the rest of the manufacturers. The Toyota Safety Suite is legendary for having the best quality equipment and the latest technology. Some of the standard features include Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, nine airbags, an active seatbelt pre-tensioning system, and auto-dimming displays.

The Toyota Safety Sense™ 3.0 adds a pre-collision system that includes Pedestrian Detection, Full-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, Lane Tracking Assist, Road Sign Assist, Automatic High Beams, and Proactive Driving Assist.

In addition to those features, Toyota also offers Blind Spot Monitors, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, and Hill Start Assist control.

Toyota puts safety on the road and off the road at the front of all of its automotive designs, including the latest Prado 250 Series/Land Cruiser.

Along with the safety features, you’ll find the connectivity options more than enough to suit your needs. The base model comes with an 8-inch touchscreen with 6 speakers and the ability to connect to all of the major players, including SiriusXM®, as well as Android Auto™ and Apple Carplay®.

When you move up in trim levels, you’ll find 14 JBL Premium speakers and audio system standard in the First Edition and as an optional add-on package for the Land Cruiser model. These models also come with a 12.3-inch touchscreen as standard equipment.

Pros and Cons

Like all vehicles, the Land Cruiser has its pros and cons. Let’s take a look at some of them through the lens of folks like Motortrend and Car and Driver who have had a chance to get these new vehicles out of the garage and face the elements.

Strengths of the 2024 Land Cruiser Prado

First, here are the pros:

• Reliable and durable – they are Toyotas, so this is no surprise
• Wide wheel track
• Strong chassis
• Excellent handling and stability
• Decent gas mileage
• Lightweight and easy to steer
• The hybrid engine is competitive with the old V-8
• More torque
• Light touch steering
• Nice cabin interior
• The 1958 model is nicer on the road thanks to the tires as opposed to the other models
• Mileage is 22/25/23, which is significantly better than the V8 at 13/18/15

Potential Drawbacks of the 2024 Land Cruiser Prado

Now, here are the complaints:

• Can be a bit noisy
• The KDSS anti-roll bar disconnect for the front and back is discontinued
• Feels like a truck
• The pitch and roll are noticeable
• Toyota’s software makes the driver display a bit complicated
• People were disappointed that the approach, breakover, and departure degrees weren’t better on a body
• Ground clearance is less at 8.3 inches vs 9.1 inches of previous models
• The starting prices are more than most of its competition in the light-duty SUV class

Pricing and Trim Levels

There are two models in the U.S. and the Japanese market, plus one First Edition model in the U.S. and two First Edition models in Japan. All First Edition models are limited production runs, so if you want one, get one soon.

Japanese lineup

North American lineup

2024 Toyota Land Cruiser 250 for Sale – Booking Open

When shopping for a new Land Cruiser Prado 250 or the U.S. versions, it helps to have a friend in the business like FLEX Automotive. We are the number one Land Cruiser dealership in Japan and have a San Diego office where we can help you the Land Cruiser that best suits your lifestyle. In addition to new vehicles, we specialize in custom Land Cruisers that blend the old with the new for a completely different look. Check out our versions under their Renoca lineup. If you need assistance, we are happy to help you.

3 of Renoca conversions: Land Cruiser 100 series to Renoca 106, Land Cruiser 80 series to Renoca Phoenix, and Tacoma to Renoca Windansea

Additional Resources

Toyota: A Legend Returns: 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser is Coming August

Toyota: 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser Returns to its Origin

Motor Trend: 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser First Drive: Is the Smaller, Cheaper Off-Road SUV Better?

Car and Driver: 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser Is Cool, Affordable, Yet Honors the Original