Toyota South Africa has announced a refreshed cosmetic package for its popular Land Cruiser Prado SUV. These minor changes impact on all models in the range but differ between petrol and diesel models in their application. They provide a subtle difference in appearance for the model going forward into 2009.

The Prado VX Petrol model receives the full cosmetic upgrade with exterior chrome mouldings added to the bottom edge of the side and rear window frames. On the interior chrome surrounds highlight the speaker grilles and the wood grain finishes are now black in colour. The steering wheel now features a dark wood finish. The full range, consisting of the Prado VX Petrol, VX Diesel, and GX Diesel are now fitted with darker 'Smokey Grey' coloured alloy wheels.

These minor changes come on top of the significant interior specification upgrade that was applied some months ago that saw all derivatives fitted with Toyota's AVN voice guided DVD satellite navigation system with split screen display and comprehensive South African map set. That minor upgrade also included a centre console mounted cooler box with lid.

The AVN system is combined with a 6-CD changer audio system with RDS radio and MP3/WMA compatibility.

On the Petrol VX model the sound system is linked to steering wheel mounted satellite audio controls.

The Prado boasts exceptional off-road ability together with superb on-highway comfort. A 2-speed transfer box with Torsen type limited slip centre differential – with lock facility – provides for excellent traction in the toughest off-road conditions through the full time four wheel drive system. Active Traction Control and Vehicle Stability Control provide assistance in slippery conditions both on and off-road. The VX models also feature Downhill Assist Control and Hill-start Assist Control in first gear and reverse to further enhance the vehicle’s capabilities in difficult driving conditions.

Large 17" alloy wheels allow space for 4-pot brake callipers and large diameter disc brakes for powerful brake performance. ABS anti-lock brakes with EBD (Electronic Brake Force Distribution) and BAS (Brake Assist System) are standard across the range. Intelligent 2-stage front airbags are supplemented by side airbags for the front seats while curtain shield airbags provide upper body protection for the first and middle rows of seats.

The Prado 3.0 Diesel model produces 96 kW @ 3600 r/min and 343 Nm @ 2000 available. Drive is through a 5-speed manual transmission on the GX model and a 4-speed automatic transmission on the VX model. The V6 petrol engine produces 179 kW @ 5200 r/min and 376 Nm @ 3800 r/min. This model is fitted with a 5-speed automatic transmission.

Prices:
Prado 3.0 Turbo Diesel GX : R451 700
Prado 3.0 Turbo Diesel VX A/T : R503 700
Prado 4.0 Petrol VX A/T : R503 300

Prices include VAT and a 5 year/90 000km service plan.