Affordable Toyota Prado at Clyde Motors in Kiambu Road, Ridgeways, Nairobi Kenya

The Toyota Land Cruiser Prado has evolved significantly from 2005 to 2025, with upgrades in design, technology, performance, and safety. Below is a breakdown of the major differences across generations:


1. Model Generations & Key Updates

2005–2009 (J120 Series – 2nd Gen Facelift)

  • Engine Options:

    • 4.0L V6 (1GR-FE) – ~240 HP

    • 3.0L Turbo Diesel (1KD-FTV) – ~170 HP

  • Design:

    • Boxier, rugged SUV styling

    • Basic interior with durable materials

  • Features:

    • Basic infotainment (CD player, no touchscreen)

    • Manual or automatic transmission

    • Part-time 4WD with low-range gearing

2010–2017 (J150 Series – 3rd Gen)

  • Engine Options:

    • 4.0L V6 (1GR-FE) – ~270 HP (upgraded)

    • 3.0L Turbo Diesel (1KD-FTV) – ~190 HP (improved efficiency)

  • Design:

    • More aerodynamic, modernized front grille

    • Improved interior with better plastics and optional leather

  • Features:

    • Introduction of touchscreen infotainment (optional navigation)

    • Multi-Terrain Select (enhanced off-road control)

    • Rearview camera (later models)

2018–2023 (J150 Series – Mid-Cycle Refresh)

  • Engine Options:

    • Same 4.0L V6 & 3.0L Turbo Diesel (but with better fuel efficiency)

    • Some markets got a 2.8L Turbo Diesel (1GD-FTV) – ~200 HP

  • Design:

    • New LED headlights, updated grille

    • More premium interior with soft-touch materials

  • Features:

    • Toyota Safety Sense (TSS) – Pre-Collision System, Lane Departure Alert

    • Apple CarPlay & Android Auto (in some regions)

    • Improved 4WD system with Crawl Control & Multi-Terrain Monitor

2024–2025 (J250 Series – All-New 4th Gen)

  • Engine Options:

    • 2.4L Turbo Hybrid (T24A-FTS) – ~330 HP (replaces V6 in many markets)

    • 2.8L Turbo Diesel (1GD-FTV) – ~204 HP (carried over)

  • Design:

    • Completely new platform (TNGA-F) – lighter & stronger

    • Modern, boxy design (similar to Land Cruiser 300)

    • High-tech interior with digital cockpit

  • Features:

    • Full Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 (Advanced driver aids)

    • 12.3-inch touchscreen with latest infotainment

    • Multi-Terrain Select & Advanced Off-Road Tech

    • Hybrid option for better fuel economy


2. Summary of Major Changes Over the Years

Aspect 2005–2009 2010–2017 2018–2023 2024–2025
Engine 4.0L V6 / 3.0L Diesel Same (upgraded) 2.8L Diesel added 2.4L Turbo Hybrid
Transmission 5-speed Auto 5/6-speed Auto 6-speed Auto 8-speed Auto
Tech Basic CD player Touchscreen Nav Apple CarPlay 12.3″ Screen + TSS 3.0
Safety ABS, Airbags Stability Control Toyota Safety Sense Full TSS 3.0
Off-Road Basic 4WD Multi-Terrain Select Crawl Control Advanced Off-Road Modes

Description

Which One Should You Buy?

  • Budget Pick: 2009–2014 (J150) – Reliable, good value.

  • Best Balance: 2018–2023 – Modern tech, good safety.

  • Latest & Greatest: 2024–2025 – Hybrid power, best tech & safety.