Land Cruiser Prado Now Hybrid: Toyota Made the SUV Economical

Toyota has unveiled an electrified version of the new Prado for the European market, stating that the "hybridization" of the body-on-frame SUV does "not compromise the Land Cruiser's ability to operate in extreme conditions and on rough terrain."

It should be noted that this is not an installation that allows the SUV to drive purely on electricity. It's a 48-volt system operating on a "start-stop" principle. Essentially, the same setup as found in the hybrid Toyota Hilux (we discussed this vehicle in detail here): it includes an electric motor-generator, a 48-volt lithium-ion battery, and an inverter. These components work in combination with a 2.8-liter turbocharged diesel 4-cylinder engine and a classic 8-speed automatic transmission.

Overall, the hybrid part adds 16 hp and 65 Nm of torque to the new Land Cruiser Prado. Additionally, regenerative braking is supported.

Since the electric motor-generator is mounted high on the "block" of the engine, the new SUV, according to Toyota, "can still ford water crossings up to 700 mm deep at low speeds."

Other changes that have come with the hybridization of the Prado include an updated infotainment system display, which now provides additional driver information regarding battery charge and recharge cycles.

The model's sales are set to begin at the end of 2025, with prices for the hybrid Prado to be announced closer to the market launch.