A lot of excitement is brewing among off-road fans as the next-gen Toyota Land Cruiser Prado gears up to hit Australia. The big question on everyone’s mind: is the hybrid version coming Down Under? Toyota’s recent reveal of the Prado, also known as LandCruiser 250, has piqued interest, especially considering the global push towards hybrid vehicles. While the initial Aussie release will have a 2.8L turbo-diesel engine with a mild-hybrid system, hybrid enthusiasts are eagerly waiting for the green light on an all-electric option.

The Toyota Land Cruiser Prado, a robust full-size four-wheel-drive vehicle within the Land Cruiser series, hails from the renowned Japanese automaker, Toyota. Positioned as a “light-duty” variation, it goes by various names like Land Cruiser LC70, LC90, LC120, LC150, and LC250. In specific markets, it’s known simply as the Toyota Prado or Toyota Land Cruiser.

Until the J150 model, the Prado was absent from the Land Cruiser lineup in North America, where the Lexus GX served as its luxury-trimmed counterpart. However, in 2023, Toyota introduced the Prado to North America, branding it as the “Land Cruiser.”

Built on a sturdy foundation with a ladder frame chassis, two-speed transfer boxes, and rear beam axles, the Prado’s platforms, including J70, J90, J120, J150, and J250, exhibit structural versatility. By 2023, the Prado became available worldwide, with exceptions in Mexico, South Korea, and select Southeast Asian and South American markets, where the Hilux-based Fortuner/SW4 provides an alternative choice. Here are the 7 things you need to know before its arrival in Australia.

 Power and a Hint of Hybrid

The first version of the Land Cruiser Prado in Australia will roll out with a familiar 2.8L turbo-diesel four-cylinder engine paired with a 48V mild-hybrid system. This combo, already confirmed for the HiLux, delivers a robust 150kW and 500Nm, matching the outgoing Prado’s power. It’s a clear sign that Toyota is sticking to the Prado’s off-road prowess and towing capacity, catering to the tastes of traditional diesel fans.

A Look from Across the Pacific

In North America, the new Prado offers an exciting alternative – a 2.4L turbocharged petrol-electric hybrid with a punchy 243kW and 630Nm. With fuel efficiency as impressive as 8.7L/100km, Aussies are wondering if this electrifying option might make its way to our shores.

Toyota’s Optimistic Stance

Sean Hanley, Toyota Australia’s Vice President of Sales and Marketing, acknowledges the interest in hybrids, saying, “It’s something we’re seriously looking into… We’re not ruling it out.” While not making promises, Hanley’s words suggest Toyota is genuinely interested in bringing a hybrid Prado to Australia. Highlighting the importance of understanding the technology in our context, Toyota seems committed to exploring the possibility of a hybrid Prado for Aussie adventures.

The Verdict

The hybrid fate of the Land Cruiser Prado in Australia is still up in the air, but Toyota’s active exploration and positive language give us a glimmer of hope. Whether the initial release caters to diesel lovers or opens the door for a hybrid hero is yet to be revealed. One thing is for sure: as we approach the mid-2024 Aussie debut, fans of the Land Cruiser Prado are eagerly anticipating whether the hybrid revolution will add a new dimension to this iconic off-road legend.