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What car is similar to a Prado?

If you're in the market for a vehicle similar to the Toyota Prado, there are a few options worth considering. The Toyota Prado is a popular mid-size SUV known for its off-road capabilities, spacious interior, and reliable performance. Here's a closer look at a car that shares some key similarities with the Prado.


The Toyota 4Runner: A Rugged Alternative


The Toyota 4Runner is a mid-size SUV that shares many of the same features and capabilities as the Prado. Like the Prado, the 4Runner is built on a sturdy body-on-frame platform, making it a capable off-road vehicle. The 4Runner is also known for its reliable Toyota engineering, spacious interior, and impressive towing capacity.


Some key similarities between the Prado and the 4Runner include:



  • Body-on-frame construction for off-road performance

  • Available four-wheel-drive systems

  • Seating for up to seven passengers

  • Powerful engine options, including V6 and V8 choices

  • Reputation for reliability and durability


While the Prado and 4Runner share many traits, there are also some differences to consider. The 4Runner tends to have a more rugged, truck-like appearance, while the Prado has a more refined, SUV-like design. Additionally, the Prado is available in more global markets, while the 4Runner is primarily sold in North America.


Other Alternatives to Consider


In addition to the Toyota 4Runner, there are a few other SUVs that share some similarities with the Prado:



  • Mitsubishi Pajero: A mid-size SUV with off-road capabilities, a spacious interior, and a reputation for reliability.li>
  • Nissan Patrol: A full-size SUV with a powerful engine, four-wheel-drive capabilities, and a roomy cabin.

  • Ford Everest: A mid-size SUV with a focus on off-road performance, seating for up to seven, and a range of engine options.li>

Ultimately, the choice between the Prado and its alternatives will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Consider factors like off-road performance, interior space, engine power, and brand reputation to find the SUV that best fits your lifestyle.

What is the Lexus version of Prado?


2024 Lexus GX
The 2024 Lexus GX – the luxury, twin-turbo V6-powered version of the new Toyota Prado 4WD – will be priced from $116,000 plus on-road costs when it arrives in showrooms mid-2024.



What is the US version of Prado?


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. 



Why is Prado discontinued?


Both models of the Land Cruiser were discontinued due to the upcoming BS6 emission norms. Both were brought into the country as CBU imports. Land Cruiser Prado used a 3.0-litre diesel engine that made 173PS/410Nm. Land Cruiser LC200 used a 4.5-litre V8 that made 265PS and 650Nm.



What's the difference between a Land Cruiser and 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. 


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.