Is Toyota Prado automatic or manual?
The Toyota Prado is overwhelmingly automatic in today’s market, with manual transmissions largely phased out on new models across most regions. If you’re after a manual, your best bet is a much older or used Prado, not a new build.
To answer this question in detail, this article surveys current transmission options for the Prado and traces how those options have evolved across generations and regions. Transmission choices for the Prado vary by model year, market, and local regulations, but the trend in recent years has been toward automatic gearboxes.
Current transmission options on the Prado
What you’ll typically see in modern, in-production Prados is summarized here. The following points reflect the general availability in recent model years across major markets.
- Automatic transmissions: Most current Prado models use a multi-gear automatic transmission (commonly a 6-speed automatic) as the standard option in a wide range of markets, including Australia, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.
- Manual transmissions: A conventional manual transmission is unlikely on new Prado models in most regions. Manual options, if they exist, are typically limited to older, used examples from earlier generations and are not offered on current production specifications.
In short, buyers looking at the latest Toyota Prado lineup should expect an automatic transmission, with manual variants generally unavailable on new purchases.
Historical overview: transmission options by generation
To understand where the current situation came from, consider how Prado transmission options evolved through its generations. Older models offered greater variety, including manual gearboxes, in certain markets.
- 90 Series (roughly mid-1990s to early 2000s): Manual and automatic options were available in several markets, particularly for diesel-powered variants.
- 120 Series (roughly 2002–2009): Both manual and automatic transmissions were offered in different regions and trims, providing buyers with choice depending on local demand and regulations.
- 150 Series (2009–present, ongoing with updates): Early in this generation, manuals appeared in some markets, but in recent years Toyota has largely moved to automatic transmissions across most regions, making new manual Prado models rare or unavailable.
Historically, manual transmissions existed on earlier Prados, but the current production trend favors automatic gearboxes. Prospective buyers of newer models should assume automatic transmission unless shopping specifically for a legacy, used vehicle.
Regional notes and practical tips
Because availability can vary by country and even by dealership, it’s important to verify the exact specification for your local market if you are shopping for a Prado with specific transmission needs.
- If you are buying used: check the original specification plate or window sticker to confirm whether the vehicle is manual or automatic, and test the transmission during a thorough test drive.
- If you are buying new: confirm with the dealer which transmissions are offered for the trim and engine you want, as regional packages can differ.
- Consider maintenance history: automatic transmissions require regular fluid checks and changes; ensure service records reflect this maintenance if transparency is important to you.
These checks help ensure you get the Prado that matches your driving preferences and regional availability.
Summary
Today’s Toyota Prado is predominantly automatic across its major markets, with manual transmissions largely restricted to older, used models. The auto-transmission trend reflects broader shifts in SUV design and consumer demand. If a manual Prado is essential, buyers should focus on older generations and verify the specific vehicle’s transmission configuration before purchase.
