Is LandCruiser Prado manual?

In most markets, no — current Land Cruiser Prado models are automatic-only; a factory manual transmission is not offered on new Prados. Historically, some older Prado generations did offer manual gearboxes in certain regions. This article explains current availability across generations and what it means for buyers who want a manual Prado.

Current Prado generation and transmission options

Today’s Prado lineup, the 150-series introduced in 2009 and refreshed over the years, is built around automatic transmissions across all engines. Toyota’s official specs list 6-speed automatics for the diesel and petrol options, with no factory manual option listed for new models in major markets.

• Current Prado models are automatic-only in most regions.


• Engines include the 2.8L diesel (1GD-FTV) and the 4.0L V6 petrol, both paired with automatic transmissions in modern trims.


• Some early or regional builds historically offered a manual option, but Toyota has not continued a manual option in the global lineup for new Prados.

For buyers who specifically want a manual transmission, the practical reality is that new Prados are automatic-only, and manual examples are limited to older used models or custom conversions, with added risk and maintenance considerations.

Historical perspective: manual availability by generation

Earlier Prado generations offered manual transmissions in various markets, especially in the 90 and 120 series. Availability depended on engine choice and regional specs; automatic options were also common. This section outlines the general trend by generation.

• Prado 90 series (1996–2002): Manual transmissions were widely available in many markets, alongside automatic options.


• Prado 120 series (2002–2009): A 5-speed manual was commonly offered on diesel variants in multiple markets; automatics were available as well.


• Prado 150 series (2009–present): Automatic transmissions dominate; factory manual options are not offered in the global lineup for new cars in most markets. Some regional or special-edition builds may have differed, but they are not standard.

If you are set on a manual Prado, your best bet is to seek an older used model and verify the transmission configuration before purchase, as availability varies by country and year.

What to check if you want a manual Prado

Before buying a manual-transmission Prado, verify the following to avoid costly surprises:

• Confirm the exact transmission type via VIN/build sheet and owner documentation.


• Inspect the clutch, gears, and syncromesh for wear; test shifting through all gears.


• Review service history for manual-transmission maintenance (clutch replacement, fluid changes, seal checks).


• Be aware of potential aftermarket modifications or swaps, which can affect reliability and resale value.


• Consider replacement parts availability and specialist support in your region.

Manual Prado variants exist only in the used market and require careful evaluation. A pre-purchase inspection by a qualified technician is especially important for older or modified vehicles.

Summary

In summary, you will not find a new Land Cruiser Prado with a factory manual transmission in most markets today. If a manual is essential, you should look at older Prado generations on the used market and confirm the transmission configuration before purchasing. Always check local specifications with a Toyota dealer, as availability can vary by country, trim, and year. Transmission choice is part of the broader evolution of the Prado, with automatics favored for modern performance and reliability.

What's the difference between a Land Cruiser and a Prado?

The main differences are that the Land Cruiser is Toyota's flagship, full-size, more powerful, and luxurious SUV, while the Prado is a mid-sized, more budget-friendly, and often more fuel-efficient option. The Land Cruiser focuses on ultimate capability, luxury, and power, whereas the Prado emphasizes practicality and maneuverability, though the newest Prado shares a platform with the Land Cruiser 300, blurring the lines between the two. 
This video compares the Land Cruiser 300 and Prado 250, highlighting their power and off-road capabilities: 59sSunshine Toyota on the Sunshine CoastYouTube · Feb 19, 2025
Toyota Land Cruiser

• Size and Power: The Land Cruiser is a larger, full-size SUV with more powerful engine options, typically V8s or powerful V6s. 
• Luxury and Features: It is the more luxurious and prestigious model, with a more refined interior and a higher level of standard equipment, such as more airbags and advanced features like crawl control. 
• Off-road: While both are capable, the Land Cruiser is built for more extreme off-roading, often with more robust suspension and drivetrain components. 

Toyota Land Cruiser Prado

• Size and Efficiency: The Prado is a mid-sized SUV that is generally smaller, lighter, and more maneuverable than the Land Cruiser. It is also more fuel-efficient, with newer models often featuring hybrid technology. 
• Practicality and Price: It is a more budget-friendly option with a focus on practicality for daily use, such as school runs or general family trips. 
• Off-road: The Prado is still very capable off-road but is not designed for the same level of extreme conditions as the Land Cruiser. 

You can watch this video to learn about the Prado's features and how it handles off-road compared to other vehicles: 59sChasing CarsYouTube · Oct 26, 2025
Which one is right for you?

• Choose the Land Cruiser if: You need the most powerful, luxurious, and capable SUV for heavy-duty towing or extreme off-roading, and your budget allows for its higher price. 
• Choose the Prado if: You want a versatile and practical SUV for daily use, prioritizing fuel efficiency and maneuverability over outright power and luxury, and need a vehicle that is still very capable off-road but at a lower price point. 

Is the Land Cruiser Prado manual or automatic?

Toyota Land Cruiser Prado is a 7 seater Full-Size SUV with the last recorded price of Rs. 96.30 Lakh - 1.13 Crore. It is available in 3 variants, 2982 cc engine option and 1 transmission option : Automatic.

What is Land Cruiser Prado called in the USA?

The Toyota Prado is now sold in the U.S. as the 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser. Previously, its equivalent was the Lexus GX, which is the more luxurious version of the Prado, sharing the same platform but with different styling and features. The Toyota 4Runner has also been considered a close relative due to sharing similar platforms and components, particularly in previous generations.
 
Current models

• Toyota Land Cruiser: The new model is a direct equivalent to the latest Prado (the 250-series) and is the most accurate answer. 
• Lexus GX: This is the luxury counterpart to the Prado, based on the same ladder frame chassis but with a more upscale interior and a more powerful engine (a 3.5L twin-turbo V6). 

Previous generation models

• Toyota 4Runner: For previous generations, the 4Runner was the most similar in terms of platform and components, as it shared many parts with the Prado. 

Is the Toyota Land Cruiser manual?

Toyota has expanded its Land Cruiser 70 Series lineup with a five-speed manual gearbox option, available on all variants except the single-cab chassis grades and the entry-level Workmate Wagon.