Prado’s overlanding and towing credentials benefit from the higher-performance engine that now delivers a maximum of 150kW@3400rpm and 500Nm over a wider 1600-2800rpm band.
The latest generation 2.8 GD-6 engine (as debuted in the updated Hilux) has received a raft of upgrades; including a new ball-bearing turbocharger with a larger turbine and impeller, and improved engine rigidity and cooling. Better fuel economy is realised through optimised pistons and piston rings, changes to the cylinder block and head, higher fuel-injection flow rate and the adoption of high-performance materials for the exhaust manifold.
A newly-fitted balance shaft helps smooth out engine vibrations, improving NVH performance and contributing to an even higher degree of refinement.
This enhanced efficiency benefits towing, yet despite the substantially stronger outputs, fuel consumption has improved to 7.9 litres/100km and CO2 emissions are down to 209g/km. Fuel capacity is 150 litres with an 87-litre main tank and 63-litre sub tank. Maximum braked towing capacity is increased to 3,000kg on 2.8 models.
Infotainment is up more than a few notches. A new-generation multimedia system is fitted across the range, which now incorporates a larger 9-inch touchscreen display (previously 8-inch), improved voice recognition and compatibility with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Customers are able to use mobile-phone-services such as Google Maps, Waze, Spotify, SoundCloud etc. to aid connectivity during their driving experience – while providing enhanced telephony and messaging interfaces ‘on-the-fly’.
Prado 2.8L Diesel TX R 939,900
Prado 4.0L Petrol VX R 1,029,000
Prado 2.8L Diesel VX R 1,060,600
Prado 4.0L Petrol VX-L R 1,072,600
Prado 2.8L Diesel VX-L R 1,105,800
The model line-up and 4.0 V6 engine remains unchanged.
All Prado models are sold with a 9-services/90 000km service plan – with 10 000km service intervals. A 3-year/100 000km warranty is also provided. Customers can purchase an additional service plan and warranty extensions from their Toyota dealer – and benefit from the biggest dealer network in South Africa (over 220 of them).
