What is the difference between 120 and 150 series Prado?
The 120-series Prado is an older, third-generation model (commonly referred to as Prado 120) produced roughly from 2002 to 2009, while the 150-series Prado is a newer fourth-generation model launched around 2009 and sold in many markets for years thereafter. In broad terms, the 150 is bigger, more modern, and better equipped than the 120, with upgraded engines and technology, while the 120 is known for ruggedness and straightforward reliability.
Design and dimensions
Here are the main differences you’ll notice in shell, space, and styling between the two generations.
- Size and footprint: The 150-series is generally longer and wider, delivering more interior room and cargo space compared with the 120-series.
- Exterior styling: The 120 has a boxier, more traditional SUV look, while the 150 features a more modern, rounded silhouette with refreshed headlights and grille design.
- Interior packaging: The 150-series adopts a more car-like cabin with upgraded materials, a larger central display in many trims, and more versatile seating options in higher grades.
Overall, the 150-series offers a larger, more refined interior and a contemporary exterior, whereas the 120 emphasizes rugged practicality and compactness by comparison.
Engines and performance
Engine choices, efficiency, and transmission behavior reflect the generational shift.
- Diesel and petrol options: The 120-series typically offered a 3.0L inline-4 diesel (1KD-FTV) and/ or a 4.0L V6 petrol (1GR-FE) in many markets, with some regions also seeing a 2.7L petrol option. The 150-series broadens the diesel lineup with newer 2.8L turbo-diesel (1GD-FTV) in many markets and continued use of 3.0L diesels in others; petrol options usually center around the 4.0L V6 in several regions.
- Transmission options: The 120 often came with a 4-speed automatic or a manual in certain markets. The 150-series commonly features a 6-speed automatic in many regions, with manuals available in some trims or markets.
- Performance and efficiency: The 150-series includes updated engines and calibration aimed at better efficiency and smoother power delivery, along with emissions improvements in markets with stricter standards. The 120’s powertrains are robust but represent earlier-generation tech.
Because engine availability varies by market and model year, it’s important to check the exact specs for the region and trim you’re considering.
Interior technology and safety
Advances in comfort, connectivity, and safety illustrate the generational leap.
- Infotainment and connectivity: The 150-series commonly features larger touchscreens, navigation options, and enhanced sound systems, while the 120-era systems are more basic in comparison.
- Safety packages: The 150-series is more likely to offer modern safety aids (stability control, multiple airbags, enhanced crash structures) and, in many markets, adds newer driver-assistance packages, whereas the 120 often has fewer standard safety features in base trims.
- Comfort and convenience: The 150-series typically provides improved seating (including power adjustments and better materials in higher grades) and more sophisticated climate control, contributing to a more refined user experience.
As with engines, features vary by market and trim level; higher-spec 120s can feel similar to earlier 150s in some respects, but the overall trend favors the 150 for technology and safety.
Off-road capability and practicality
Both generations are capable off-road machines, but the 150-series brings newer tech and conveniences to the trail.
- Drivetrain and assist systems: Both generations offer four-wheel drive with low-range gearing; the 150-series often adds more advanced traction aids (like multiple terrain modes and improved hill-start/descend control) in higher trims and later years.
- Ride and handling: The 150-series generally delivers improved on-road comfort alongside strong off-road ability, whereas the 120-series tends to emphasize ruggedness and simplicity on tougher trails.
- Practical features: The 150-series typically offers greater cargo flexibility and seating options (including more convenient access to rear rows in some markets), while the 120’s layout remains straightforward and robust.
Both generations can be dependable off-road choices, but the 150-series benefits from newer chassis tuning and electronics that can aid in challenging conditions.
Market variations and common variants
Regional differences in availability, engines, and features are common between the two generations.
- Region-specific engines: Some markets favored certain diesel or petrol options depending on emissions and tax rules, leading to different engine availability between the 120 and 150 in the same country.
- Trim levels and equipment: The 150-series tends to offer more high-end trims with modern comforts and safety tech, while the 120-series trims focus more on rugged capability with fewer luxury features in base configurations.
- Maintenance and parts: Parts availability and service networks for each generation can vary by country and model year, impacting ownership experience and cost of upkeep.
When evaluating a Prado, always verify the exact trim, engine, and geolocation features to understand what is included on a specific vehicle.
Summary
In essence, the 120-series Prado represents an earlier, rugged era of Toyota’s Prado lineup with straightforward mechanics and a plainer interior, while the 150-series marks a modern evolution—larger, more comfortable, and better equipped with contemporary engines and tech. Prospective buyers should account for regional variations in engine options, available safety features, and trim-level specifics to determine which generation best suits their needs and budget.
What is the difference between Prado 150 and 120?
In 2010 the now available J150 was introduced. Much more luxurious then the 120 and much more capable. Where the 120 had no rear diff-lock the 150 had centre and rear diff-lock standard on the entire range. Still seen by many as a soft roader, but many more as a real 4x4 capable of tackilng more difficult terrain.
What year is the Prado 120 series?
Toyota Prado 120 2002-2009.
What year is the 150 series Prado?
2009
The fourth-generation Land Cruiser Prado was launched in September 2009. While the Prado had been sharing the chassis with the Hilux Surf since May 1996, the two lines finally merged as the fourth-generation Prado.
Which is the best Prado model?
The Top Model: Toyota Land Cruiser Prado TZ-G
As of 2025, the TZ-G is considered the highest-grade Prado available in most export markets, especially Japan.
