The United States is bracing for the long-awaited return of the iconic Toyota LandCruiser, specifically the Prado model. This announcement comes two years after the U.S. confirmed it would no longer offer the LandCruiser 300 Series for sale. The new Prado is set to debut in 2024, with an anticipated reveal later this year.
Toyota broke the news through a social media post with the intriguing caption, “Nothing better than a comeback story. The legend returns… #LetsGoPlaces.” The post was accompanied by various images of the historic LandCruiser badge.
This 2024 model will draw design inspiration from the Lexus GX, sporting boxy proportions with rugged and retro styling. Powering the LandCruiser Prado is a 2.4-litre four-cylinder hybrid engine, boasting an estimated power output of around 250kW and 550Nm of torque, which marks a significant improvement over the current Prado model available in Australia. Off-road enthusiasts can expect potent off-road capabilities as the vehicle continues to uphold the LandCruiser’s legacy.
The return of the Prado underlines Toyota’s commitment to honouring its off-road heritage while simultaneously addressing shortcomings in the previous model. It’s projected that the new Land Cruiser Prado will considerably surpass its predecessor, even though it may carry a higher price tag, akin to the 300 Series.
The Prado model, in service since 2009, is overdue for a replacement. It has undergone multiple facelifts during its long life cycle, and the introduction of an all-new model is eagerly awaited. Interestingly, Toyota’s J70 Land Cruiser, also available as a pickup, is set to mark its 40th anniversary in 2024, holding the title of the brand’s oldest SUV still on sale.
Following the announcement for the U.S., Toyota’s European division also released a similar teaser featuring vintage badges. It’s important to note that in most European countries, the Prado is simply sold as the Land Cruiser. While neither division has confirmed an official debut date, it’s speculated to occur in the coming weeks.
The new Prado, believed to be the U.S. bound SUV, will be Toyota’s equivalent to the 2024 Lexus GX, sharing the same body-on-frame platform as the larger Land Cruiser LC300. As we await the official unveiling of the new model, it’s evident that the return of the LandCruiser signifies a robust and capable SUV ready to pay homage to its storied off-road history.
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