By Malusi Msomi

The Toyota Land Cruiser Prado VX-R is where rugged heritage meets modern-day refinement. With its unmistakable retro-inspired design and advanced off-road capability, this seven-seater SUV is built for adventure—yet it’s equally at home in urban environments. At a starting price of R1,485,300, the VX-R aims to offer premium comfort, cutting-edge technology, and legendary durability in one complete package.

Interior

Step inside the Prado VX-R and you’ll notice a significant modernization over its predecessor. The cabin is spacious and well-organized, offering generous room for both passengers and cargo. Highlights include a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a high-resolution infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a premium JBL sound system.

The VX-R trim also adds thoughtful touches like ventilated front seats, a head-up display, and Toyota Safety Sense driver assistance features. While the infotainment system is generally intuitive, we experienced some minor Apple CarPlay connectivity issues—fortunately, they resolved themselves quickly.

Engine, performance, and driving experience

Under the bonnet, the Prado VX-R is powered by a 2.8-litre turbodiesel engine producing 150 kW and 500 Nm, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Power is sent through a full-time four-wheel-drive system with a centre locking differential, giving it strong off-road capability.

On the road, the Prado feels composed and comfortable. However, when fully loaded or driving at higher speeds, the engine can feel slightly underpowered. A V6 turbodiesel option would arguably enhance its all-round appeal.

Off-road is where the Prado truly shines. Features like Multi-Terrain Select, Crawl Control, adaptive variable suspension, and the electronically controlled kinetic dynamic suspension system (E-KDSS) allow it to tackle tough terrain with ease. Whether it’s sand, rocks, or steep gradients, the Prado handles it all confidently.

Toyota claims a combined fuel consumption of 7.6 L/100 km, but our real-world testing showed an average closer to 10 L/100 km. While this isn’t the most efficient in its class, it’s a reasonable trade-off given the Prado’s size, capability, and full-time 4WD setup.

Final Thoughts

The Toyota Land Cruiser Prado VX-R delivers a refined blend of old-school charm and modern luxury. Its off-road capability remains among the best in its segment, and the updated interior keeps it competitive in today’s market. While we’d love a bit more power and slightly better real-world fuel efficiency, the Prado VX-R remains a highly capable, family-friendly SUV that’s ready for any adventure.