IN SOME overseas markets, the latest-generation Prado is known simply as the LandCruiser, underlining the importance of the sub-brand as one of the definitive off-road vehicles available today. And in this respect, the 150 Series Prado does not disappoint, since Toyota’s engineers have merely improved on what was one of the most 'go-anywhere' models around. But how much better on-road is the fourth-generation ‘LandCruiser Light’ (as the series was originally envisaged to be in the 1980s)? Everything has gone up – including pricing – so much rides on how successful Toyota has been in updating what has become a 4x4 icon in this country.
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LandCruiser Prado GXL
Released: March 2003
Ended: October 2009
Family Tree: LandCruiser PradoA VAST improvement over the first Prado to be sold in Australia from 1996 to 2003, the third-generation 120 Series ushered in a level of sophistication missing in the previous model with improved safety, body rigidity, off-road ability and a 179kW/343Nm 4.0-litre V6 teamed to a five-speed manual or four-speed auto gearbox. A running change during mid 2004 saw both gearboxes add another ratio. Minor upgrades occurred in late 2006 and September 2007. Equipment levels on the popular mid-range GXL included dual airbags, cruise control, anti-lock brakes and a limited slip differential.
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