Is there an automatic Prado?
Yes. In today’s market, the Toyota Prado is almost always paired with an automatic transmission on new models, with manual gearboxes largely phased out in most regions. This article explains current options, regional nuances, and how to verify the transmission on a Prado you’re considering.
Transmission options by generation and market
The following list summarizes typical automatic options across Prado generations and key markets, reflecting current production and common configurations.
- Most modern Prados are equipped with a torque-converter automatic transmission (commonly a 6-speed unit) across diesel and petrol variants.
- Manual transmissions were offered in some older or regional configurations but are now rare or unavailable on new models in major markets.
- Some markets may have offered different automatic refinements or updates over the years, but the standard expectation for new Prados today is an automatic gearbox.
- When shopping used, you may encounter older Prados with 5-speed automatics or even manuals; verify the exact gearbox for the model year and market you’re considering.
In short, if you’re buying new, expect an automatic Prado; manual options are mostly a holdover from older stock or special regional variants.
Regional differences to note
Transmission availability and naming can vary by market, model year, and engine choice. Here are broad patterns observed in key regions.
- Australia and New Zealand: Prado trims are typically automatic; manual options are uncommon in recent generations.
- Europe: Automatic transmissions are standard in most trims due to driving preferences and efficiency regulations; manuals are rarely found in current stock.
- Asia and the Middle East: Automatic is the prevailing choice across most engine options; manuals are uncommon in new models.
- Africa and Latin America: Availability varies by year and model, but modern Prados in these regions are predominantly automatic.
Regional differences matter for availability, pricing, and resale value, so always confirm the exact gearbox on the specific vehicle you’re pursuing.
How to verify the transmission in your Prado
To confirm whether a given Prado is automatic, use these steps to verify the gearbox type on a vehicle you own or are considering.
- Inspect the gear selector: a P, R, N, D arrangement indicates an automatic; a clutch pedal or a gear pattern showing a manual H-pattern points to a manual transmission.
- Check the center console and instrument cluster for transmission indicators and gear numbering that align with automatic or manual layouts.
- Look up the vehicle’s documentation (owner’s manual, window sticker, or online VIN lookup) for the transmission type or gearbox code.
- Decode the VIN or build sheet if possible; transmission codes can confirm automatic vs. manual configuration.
- Ask the seller or dealer for a formal confirmation of the gearbox type and any recent transmission service history.
Verifying the transmission helps with maintenance planning, driving expectations, and resale considerations.
Maintenance and reliability considerations
Automatic transmissions in the Prado require standard care to maintain reliability. Regular fluid checks and changes per manufacturer guidelines help extend life, and choosing the right fluid type and viscosity for your engine is important. If you’re buying used, request service records showing transmission fluid changes and any related repairs.
Summary
The Toyota Prado today is widely offered with automatic transmissions across most markets, with manuals largely phased out in new-model stock. While older Prados and some regional variants may feature manual gearboxes, the automatic option is the norm for current or recent-model Prados. When shopping, verify the exact gearbox, especially if buying used, and consider regional differences that can affect availability and pricing. A correct identification of the transmission will aid in maintenance planning and resale decisions.
