Land Cruiser Prado undergoes rejuvenations

There are not many vehicles as capable in a rock terrain as the Toyota Prado and this sledgehammer has made a name globally for its reliability and builds quality. The face-lifted fifth-generation Prado you see here (which is hopefully expected to arrive dealerships from next year) is arguably the best model yet and has undergone a glut of cosmetic and mechanical revisions.

Some of these changes include a modified, electronically governed kinetic dynamic suspension system (KDSS) which ensures better balance between on/ off-road proficiency. It looks and sounds rather impressive but just how competent are this machine?

From feedbacks by corporate fleet owners and individual buyers reveal that the Prado has never really struck fear in the eyes of its adversaries in terms of shear aggression but the new model sure looks intimidating.

While some may have reservations about its flashy looks, it also commands malevolent presence. Visual tweaks include a more defined front bumper, larger LED headlamp clusters mounted slightly higher than its predecessor to avoid damage, a prominent five-bar grille and reworked tail-lamps. Although, it may not be the most practical choice around for some high-end luxury SUV shoppers, but it has an aggressive touch nonetheless.

Visual alterations however, have done nothing to affect the vehicle’s exterior proportions thus the turning circle (11.6 metres), approach (32°), departure (25°) and roll-over (22°) angles remain unchanged.

Other embellishments worth a mention include the front and rear spats which channel air flow around the tyres and wheel housings, and a front deflector which manipulates air flow from the radiator grille to reduce turbulence.

The biggest changes had to do with the cosy cabin. While its architecture and general design geometry lacks the panache of its European rivals the fit/finish and quality of trim artificial wood inlays aside is generally fine. The black leather upholstery and a selection of metallic surfaces equally add up to lend an upmarket theme to the cockpit.

Located just below the audio touchscreen is a smorgasbord of buttons and switches that control the various 4×4 modes. Here is located the multi-terrain dial complete with five modes: mud/ sand, loose rock, mogul, rock and dirt/rock, each of which modifies the throttle, traction control and braking depending on the surface.

Other standard features are sunroof, fridge and satellite navigation system viewable via a 4.2-inch TFT monitor perched between the speedometer and tachometer, depending on market preferences. The monitor can be configured to relay off-road information such as traction, steering angle and differential lock operation.

Toyota Prado comes with three rows of seats and can comfortably seat up to seven adults. Space inside is generous and the two back rows can be folded completely flat to increase cargo volume to 1,150 litres.

Compared to its predecessor, this version is more capable through the twisty lanes and corners, nimble but dynamic enough to dispatch a set of left and rights. Much of its new-found agility come compliments of KDSS and adaptive variable air suspension at the rear, which helps with weight distribution in cornering situations.

On the rough stuff, Prado does a sterling job. From sand dunes and rocky paths to treacherous descents and steep inclines, there isn’t much this Toyota can’t do. The impressive 4×4 system benefits from a bouquet of tools such as centre and rear differential locks, a low-range transfer case and crawl feature to go with multi-terrain select and adaptive suspension.

The five-speed auto makes life behind the wheel an easy and stress-free exercise with an easy-to-modulate throttle and the all-round camera system is invaluable when traversing undulating and tricky terrain.

As critical as industry experts, there are still others who believe there is nothing intrinsically wrong with the new Toyota Prado. Some say it is a stellar machine that is properly capable off the beaten track and competent at dispatching twisty topography; thanks to the tweaked electronic suspension system.

The comfort and practicality afforded by its luxurious yet hardy interior makes the Prado a versatile machine and its frugal 3.0-litre turbodiesel engine in partnership with a massive fuel tank means you’ll spend more time on the road/trail and less time at the fuel station.

For the buying public, the reliability offered by the brand, comprehensive service plan and aftersales dealer gives peace of mind. For those who drives it, the Prado is pretty much faultless, reliable, practical, frugal and fully capable SUV regardless of the terrain.

MIKE OCHONMA