2018 Toyota Land Cruiser Prado Review

Detailed Review

The first generation Toyota Land Cruiser Prado codenamed J70, was produced from 1990 to 1996. This model, unlike its predecessor from 1984, had a new front grille, front fenders, engine hood, and headlamps. The front suspension was changed to a “shock absorber through spring” system to improve handling. By pressing a button, you could switch between absorber phases.

The J90, or second-generation Toyota Land Cruiser, was produced from 1996 to 2002. In Japan, the three-door lineup started with an R series and continued through RZ, RX, RS, and RJ, whilst the five-door lineup started with a T series and progressed through TZ, TX, TS, and TJ. All models came standard with a front double wishbone and four-link suspension, as well as full-time 4WD.

All models came standard with an anti-lock braking system (ABS) with a Field Monitor that included an altimeter, thermometer, and pressure gauge. The J90 was also available in a higher-end model known as the Challenger. The Challenger came standard with leather seats and a mahogany dashboard. Toyota Land Cruiser V8’s third generation debuted in 2002 and was produced until 2009. The front suspension was modified to increase reliability. In 2007, this vehicle had various equipment and safety improvements.

The RX, RZ, TX, TX Limited, TZ, and TZ ‘G Selection’ trim levels were offered on the Japanese Prado. The TZ ‘G Selection,’ the highest specification model, had heated front driver and passenger seats, heated exterior mirrors, adjustable air suspension, hill start assist control, downhill assist control, central differential lock, and engine auto heating.

The fourth-generation Toyota Land Cruiser Prado, known as the J150, went into production in 2009 and was manufactured until 2022. The main configurations are five-door and three-door. The five-door model is offered in the general market in TXL and VXL grades, which feature many more options. This Prado model offers sophisticated 4WD as well as a host of modern features. The removable third-row three-seaters in the J120 were replaced by fold-into-floor seats that seat only two people, resulting in less cargo room, less dual fuel capacity, and less cargo compartment useable height.

Toyota improved the petrol engine’s power output and torque with dual VVT-I in 2015. The 1GD-FTV engine replaced the diesel engine. Both engines are now equipped with a 6-speed automatic transmission.

The fifth-generation Toyota Land Cruiser Prado, codenamed J250, went into production in 2023 and is continuing in production today. The design and technical approach have changed in comparison to the previous generation, with a greater emphasis on practicality, durability, and dependability. The vehicle shares the GA-F platform with the bigger J300 series Land Cruiser.

The 2018 Toyota Land Cruiser Prado is available with two engines: a 2.8 L (Petrol) and a 2.8 L (Diesel), both mated with a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed automatic transmission. Click here to purchase the 2018 Toyota Prado Buyer’s Guide. 

2018 Toyota Land Cruiser Prado Grades

1. GX- This entry grade comes with a trailer sway control, a reverse camera, cruise control, a 220-volt rear socket, hill start assist (for automatic), downhill assist control (for automatic), and 17-inch alloy wheels.
2. GXL- This grade is fitted with 9 speakers, climate control, rear parking sensors, alarm, side steps, tinted windows, Bluetooth connectivity, and cruise control.
3. VX- This grade has a kinetic dynamic suspension system, 18-inch alloy wheels, rain-sensing wipers, leather-accent seats, heated front seats, front parking sensors, 17 speakers, and digital radio.
4. KAKUDU– This grade boasts a rear cross-traffic alert, a blind spot monitor, a pre-crash safety system, adaptive cruise control, crawl control, a multi-terrain monitor, a moonroof, and a memory position for a driver’s seat.
5. VXL- This grade has automatic climate control, an anti-lock braking system, Bluetooth connectivity, adaptive cruise control, and heated front seats.
6. TX- This grade is fitted with an engine immobilizer, adaptive damping control, power steering, AUX/USB input socket, a hill holder, and Bluetooth connectivity.
7. TXL- This grade has a hill descent control, brake assist, traction control system, illuminated glovebox compartment, a trip computer, power windows, and a digital clock.
8. Altitude- This grade is fully equipped with cruise control, rear spoiler, 12-volt power output, MP3 player, dusk-sensing headlights, power front seats, surround camera system, and roof rails.
9. TZG- This grade boasts a parking distance control rear, climate control, digital audio broadcast window, 18-inch alloy wheels, ambient temperature display, multi-function steering wheel, and Bluetooth connectivity.

Interior

Legroom & Space

The 2018 Toyota Land Cruiser Prado is a seven-seater with leather accents that make the cabin luxurious and attractive.

There is plenty of legroom and headroom in the first row, as well as seats that can recline to a comfortable position. The second row is just as good, with plenty of knee and headroom. The third row of seats is only ideal for children because of its limited headroom and knee room.

Cabin Storage

The 2018 Toyota Land Cruiser Prado has numerous storage compartments that enhance passenger comfort by storing items such as keys, files, beverages, soft drinks, and other items.

The first row has two cupholders, a glovebox compartment, a center console, and door pockets. The second row contains two cupholders mounted on the armrest, door pockets, and jacket pockets.

Boot Space

The boot space of the 2018 Toyota Land Cruiser Prado measures 4.2 cubic feet with all seven seats in place, 16.9 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 64.7 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded. Pulling to the side opens the rear tailgate.

Exterior

The 2018 Toyota Land Cruiser Prado has an imposing appearance. The front end has a larger grille with the Toyota insignia on it, giving it an authoritative appeal everywhere it goes. LED headlights on either side of the grille and fog lights located on the lower fascia give it a sleek look. Air vents are encompassed on the lower fascia to not only improve the aerodynamics but also aid in cooling the engine.

The side profile includes running boards that help people board and exit the vehicle. LED tail lamps and turn signals are built into the body. The trailer hitch is visible at the bottom of the bumper. Roof rails can be added to make the car to be more aesthetically pleasing.

2018 Toyota Land Cruiser Prado Safety Features

The 2018 Toyota Land Cruiser Prado features SRS Airbags, Curtain airbags, DCS and TCS, ABS, Electronic Stability Control, Pre-crash Safety System, Radar Cruise Control, Blind Spot Detection, Pedestrian Warning, Lane Departure Alert, Frontal Collision Warning, Automatic High Beam, Run Flat tires, Active Roll Stabilization, and Electronic Damping Control.

2018 Toyota Land Cruiser Prado Fuel Consumption

2018 Toyota Land Cruiser Prado 2.8 L petrol engine consumption- 10.3 km/l on average

2018 Toyota Land Cruiser Prado 2.8 L diesel engine consumption- 12.1 km/l on average

2018 Toyota Land Cruiser Prado Acceleration

2018 Toyota Prado 2.8 L petrol engine accelerates from 0-100km/h in 12.1 secs

2018 Toyota Prado 2.8 L diesel engine accelerates from 0-100km/h in 10.7 secs

2018 Toyota Land Cruiser Prado Fuel Tank Capacity: 150 liters

Ground Clearance

The 2018 Toyota Land Cruiser Prado has a ground clearance of 8.7 inches.

Service Intervals

Minor Service: At 5,000 km. Requires Air Cleaner, Oil Filter, and Engine Oil.

Major Service: At 10,000km. Requires Air Cleaner, Oil Filter, Fuel Filter, ATF Filter, Cabin Filter, Plugs, Front Brake Pads, Rear Brake Pads, ATF Oil, and Engine Oil.

Spare Parts and Availability

Spare parts for the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado are much more affordable compared to its competitors. In the long term, it’s the cheaper car to own. On average, body parts and sensors are expensive and some are not readily available in the market. Service parts are well-priced and available in all major towns across the country.

Stability And Handling

Regardless of the road surface, the 2018 Toyota Land Cruiser Prado provides excellent driving with robust handling. Its steering wheel is easy to maneuver given that it responds promptly to road curvature, especially in tight bends.

This car’s suspension technology helps it to easily handle off-road terrains because it absorbs all road imperfections, providing passengers with a pleasant ride.

Some of the more advanced technologies incorporated in this SUV are hill descent control, adaptive cruise control, an anti-lock braking system, and blind spot monitoring.

Reliability

The 2018 Toyota Land Cruiser Prado is a reliable car. It is capable of traversing off-road terrain with ease due to its high ground clearance. Several owners have reported that blockage of the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) is especially common in diesel vehicles. To avoid such issues, regular maintenance and service are essential. Click here to purchase the 2019 Toyota Prado Buyer’s Guide. 

Resale Value: Good

Toyota Land Cruiser Prado Competitors:

Jeep Grand Cherokee, Land Rover Discovery, Mitsubishi Pajero, Mercedes Benz GLB, and Ford Everest.

 What we like about the 2018 Toyota Land Cruiser Prado

Off-road capability

Good towing capacity

What we don’t

Cramped third row

Some variants are costly

Conclusion

The 2018 Toyota Land Cruiser Prado blends off-road prowess, above-average towing capacity, and a roomy cabin into a single vehicle. Its sumptuous exterior design allows it to be used in ferrying VIPs to different locations whether in town or out of town. Individuals on a tight budget may be unable to purchase this car, despite their admiration for its specifications. Click here to download a copy of the 2018 Toyota Prado owner’s manual.