2024 Toyota Prado J250 Review

 

The Toyota Prado’s iteration has been more of an evolutionary than revolutionary. The J70 marked its first production in 1990 followed by J90 in 1996. The third generation designated as the J120 started its production in 2002. The fourth generation coded as the J150 launched its production in 2009. This SUV is currently on its fifth iteration marked as the J250. The 2024 Toyota Prado J250 comes with two engine options, a 2.8 L direct injection Turbo Diesel and a 2.7 L Petrol linked to an 8-speed automatic transmission or a 6-speed automatic transmission.

2024 Toyota Prado J250 Grades

1. J250 ZX- This grade comes with LED headlights and daytime running lights, Apple Car Play & Android Auto, locking differentials, a blind spot monitor, a lane departure warning, multiple USB ports, and power windows.
2. J250 VX- This grade has satellite navigation, parking sensors, a rear-cross traffic alert, a head-up display, Bluetooth connectivity, a 12-volt power outlet, leather upholstery, a 360-degree camera, and a keyless entry & start.
3. J250 GX- This grade boasts heated front seats, automatic high beams, adaptive cruise control, locking differentials, a lane departure warning, crawl control, and a multi-terrain select.

Interior

Legroom & Space

The 2024 Toyota Prado J250 interior is designed with a strong emphasis on practicality and off-road functionality, unlike its predecessors which largely prioritized luxury. Soft touches and leather upholstery elevate the premium feel of the cabin as a panoramic sunroof allows natural light to flood the cabin creating a tranquil atmosphere for a serene ride.

The dashboard is ergonomically designed for ease of reach and access. The digital instrument cluster is customizable allowing the driver to access various information and data while ambient lighting available on higher grades create an inviting and calm sanctuary. The four-zone climate control ensures that room temperature is maintained throughout the cabin.

The 2024 Toyota Prado J250 is available as a 5-seater or a 7-seater. The first row has plenty of legroom and headroom. The heated seats can be electronically adjusted to match a desired posture. The second row is equally impressive offering sufficient knee room and headroom. These seats are not only comfy but also very supportive. The third row is ideal for kids as adults will find it crampy due to its limited legroom.

Cabin Storage

The 2024 Toyota Prado J250 encompasses numerous storage compartments that are used to either keep or hold the gears of its occupants for ease of access and reach. The first row incorporates a glove box, a center console, door panel storage, and two cupholders. The second row includes door pockets, two cupholders, and jacket pockets. The occupants of the third row have access to cupholders.

Boot Space

The 2024 Toyota Prado J250 has a spacious load area which can accommodate small and medium-sized luggage. To create more space, the rear seat can be retracted.

Exterior

The 2024 Toyota Prado J250 incorporates iconic design elements borrowed from its predecessors like the FJ40 harmoniously blending with modern aesthetics. Its rugged and boxy silhouette inspires confidence from every angle. The front end is distinguished by a prominent grille adorned with the Toyota badging to assert its presence. Depending on the grade, the imposing grille is furnished with chrome accents or finished in matte black. Flanking the grille are LED headlights and daytime running lights injecting a contemporary look to the J250. The headlights are either circular in shape or a quad-headlight arrangement.

The side profile continues to uphold the ruggedness of this SUV. Perfectly crafted subtle character lines and flat panels enhance the dynamism of the J250 while simultaneously improving aerodynamics resulting in better performance and fuel efficiency. The muscular wheel arches housing the 20-inch alloy wheels improve the overall appearance of the vehicle. Black plastic cladding on the lower part of this SUV’s body protects its body components especially when off-roading. Roof rails come standard on all grades providing extra cargo room. Side steps are incorporated allowing passengers to effortlessly embark or disembark from the vehicle.

The rear is graced by vertical LED taillights and turn signals which are very distinctive and match the headlights for a cohesive look. Some grades have their spare tire mounted on the tailgate showcasing their off-road heritage. The rear bumper is robust and can withstand the rigors when off-roading. The exhaust outlet is integrated into the bumper maintaining a clean and uncluttered appearance. The 2024 J250 is available in a spectrum of colors to cater to the divergent preferences and desires of its wide fanbase.

2024 Toyota Prado J250 Safety Features

The 2024 Toyota Prado J250 encompasses a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, anti-lock brakes, electronic brakeforce distribution, dynamic radar cruise control, brake assist, stability control, traction control, hill-start assist, hill descent control, multiple airbags, and an Isofix child-seat anchors.

2024 Toyota Prado J250 Fuel Consumption

2024 Toyota Prado J250 2.8 L diesel engine consumption- 12.6 km/l on average

2024 Toyota Prado J250 2.7 L petrol engine consumption- 9.4 km/l on average

2024 Toyota Prado J250 Acceleration

2024 Toyota Prado J250 2.8 L diesel engine accelerates from 0-100km/h in 10.2 secs

2024 Toyota Prado J250 2.7 L petrol engine accelerates from 0-100km/h in 13.4 secs

The 2024 Toyota Prado J250 Fuel Tank Capacity: 87 liters

Ground Clearance: The 2024 Toyota Prado J250 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

Toyota boasts an excellent reputation when it comes to the availability of its spare parts. The 2024 J250 is not an exception. However, body parts are slightly expensive.

Stability And Handling

The 2024 Toyota Prado J250 delivers a striking balance between comfort and handling. While it is primarily designed to conquer off-road terrains, it does not sacrifice its on-road performance. Compared to its predecessors, the J250 has a sturdy and comfortable ride. It sits on a similar ladder-frame chassis (GA-F platform) used by the 300 series that helps its body not only be rigid but also improve its strength and weight reduction.

The electronic power steering reduces the loss of steering control thus it is very responsive improving maneuverability at low speeds. The suspension system is finely tuned to absorb road imperfections while simultaneously enhancing wheel articulation. The solid axle setup and the ladder frame chassis improves the stability of this SUV especially when cruising on extreme off-road terrains. Due to its high ground clearance resulting in a high center of gravity, it is recommended to slow down when approaching tight corners to avoid experiencing body rolls.

The driver has excellent visibility and command of the surrounding traffic. The braking system is very robust with a high stopping power ready to mitigate any kind of disaster. Other technologies encompassed in this car to improve its stability and handling include adaptive cruise control, stability control, electronic brakeforce distribution, and an anti-lock braking system.

Reliability

Toyota has a longstanding reputation for crafting durable and reliable automobiles. The 2024 J250 is a product of such engineering prowess. It has inherited the DNA of its predecessors whose longevity and reliability are unmatched. However, just like any other vehicle, the J250 is not immune to problems. Regular service and maintenance are required to keep this car in optimal condition. Refer to the Toyota Prado Buyer’s Guide for a thorough reliability report. We also urge that you follow the instructions in the Owner’s Manual.

Resale Value: Good

Toyota Prado J250 Competitors:  Land Rover Defender, Lexus GX 550, and Jeep Wrangler.

What we like about the 2024 Toyota Prado J250

• Strong resale value
• Comfortable & spacious cabin
• Improved off-road technology
• Robust build quality

What we don’t

• Less emphasis on luxury
• Limited third-row space
• High buying price

Conclusion

The 2024 Toyota Prado J250 offers a compelling package that will suite a buyer who resides in urban areas or an enthusiast who would want to go for adventure escapades. Individuals with big households will find this SUV ideal owing to its comfortable and spacious cabin. Its unmatched and proven off-road capability makes it a strong contender in the SUV category. Durability and reliability are factors one should consider before buying a vehicle. Toyota’s reliability record is highly ranked. Its strong resale value makes it a good investment. Lastly, the prestige and heritage that comes with owning a Toyota Prado J250 are unrivaled. Owing to its high acquisition cost, people on a tight budget may not be in a position to own this car.

To import the 2024 Toyota Prado J250, you can send your request at EMAIL info@topcar.co.ke OR you can CONTACT +254 722 469 360