Few vehicles command as much respect on African roads as the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado. For decades, it has built a reputation as the dependable companion — equally suited to remote safari adventures and the daily commute. Spending a week with the latest Prado VX-L reveals how Toyota has carefully evolved this legendary SUV, blending its rugged DNA with a noticeably more refined, modern character.x
My first encounter with the new-generation Prado came in July 2024, when Toyota South Africa Motors hosted the media launch in Mozambique — an experience documented in the August 2024 issue of Your Luxury Africa magazine. At that time, the range comprised two derivatives: the Prado 2.8GD TX and the range-topping VX-R. The introduction of the VX-L now adds a more lifestyle-focused interpretation to the line-up.
Heritage Meets Modern Engineering
At its heart remains Toyota’s trusted 2.8-litre 1GD-FTV turbodiesel engine, delivering 150kW of power and 500Nm of torque. Paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and a full-time all-wheel-drive system, the Prado continues to deliver the effortless confidence that has defined the Land Cruiser lineage for generations. Whether navigating uneven gravel tracks or cruising along open highways, the VX-L retains the reassuring composure expected of a vehicle bearing the iconic badge.
The VX-L name may be familiar to long-time Prado enthusiasts, but this latest iteration elevates the experience through a stronger emphasis on comfort and sophistication. Features such as adaptive variable suspension, selectable drive modes — including Sport S+, Comfort, and Custom — paddle shifters, and a 14-speaker JBL sound system lend the SUV a distinctly more premium character.
Design with Quiet Authority
My test vehicle arrived in Avant-Garde Bronze Metallic, riding on black 20-inch Dunlop all-terrain wheels. With its upright proportions, squared-off shoulders, and assertive grille, the Prado’s design communicates quiet authority — a visual statement equally at home outside a luxury lodge or navigating urban avenues.
Comfort Across Every Terrain
During my time with the vehicle, the Prado VX-L accompanied me across a variety of driving environments. A journey to Potchefstroom in the North West Province, followed by a return detour to Johannesburg via the agricultural roads around Carletonville, provided the perfect opportunity to explore its versatility. On gravel, the Prado felt reassuringly planted, encouraging a steady pace, while its suspension absorbed imperfections with ease.
Toyota quotes fuel consumption of 7.9 litres per 100km, although my real-world experience returned figures between 9.2 and 10.2 litres per 100km — respectable for a vehicle of this size and capability. While the Prado’s substantial dimensions are noticeable through tighter bends, the light electric power steering makes everyday driving far less intimidating than its imposing stance might suggest.
A Cabin Designed for Modern Luxury
Inside, the VX-L leans confidently into its luxury brief. A large 12.3-inch infotainment display anchors the dashboard, while electrically operated third-row seats enhance practicality for larger families. One particularly thoughtful feature is the refrigerated centre console, reminiscent of the Land Rover Defender, and ideal for keeping refreshments cool during long summer drives.
The cream-white leather upholstery and carefully stitched interior trims add an elegant touch, creating a cabin environment that feels both welcoming and premium, although families with young children may prefer darker upholstery options.
A More Lifestyle-Oriented Prado
Spending meaningful time with the VX-L highlights Toyota’s strategic positioning within the Prado range. The VX-R continues to appeal to traditional Land Cruiser purists who prioritise uncompromising off-road durability. The VX-L, by contrast, speaks to buyers who spend more time navigating city streets, long highways, and weekend escapes — drivers seeking a balance between luxury comfort and authentic capability.
With nearly 10 000 units sold locally since its launch in 2024, the Prado remains one of South Africa’s most sought-after large SUVs. The VX-L strengthens its competitive standing against rivals such as the Land Rover Defender, Ford Everest, Jeep Grand Cherokee, and Ineos Grenadier, while also presenting an intriguing alternative for buyers considering premium SUVs like the BMW X5, Audi Q7, and Mercedes-Benz GLE.
The Verdict
After a week behind the wheel, one conclusion feels undeniable: the Prado VX-L embodies the evolving spirit of the Land Cruiser nameplate — a vehicle where comfort, capability, and quiet prestige coexist in a single, unmistakably Toyota package.
Pricing starts from R1 513 300, including a nine-service/90 000km service plan and a three-year/100 000km warranty.
