What is Toyota Prado called in America?
The Toyota Prado is a popular SUV known for its rugged off-road capabilities and luxurious features. However, if you're in the United States, you might not find a vehicle labeled as the "Toyota Prado" on dealership lots. Instead, the Prado is marketed under a different name. In this article, we’ll explore what the Toyota Prado is called in America and why it has a different branding in this region.
The American Equivalent: Toyota Land Cruiser Prado
In the United States, the Toyota Prado is essentially sold under the name Toyota Land Cruiser. While the Prado is a distinct model in other markets, it is often considered part of the broader Land Cruiser family. Historically, the Prado shares its platform with the Land Cruiser but is positioned as a slightly smaller and more affordable alternative in global markets.
Why the Name Change?
The name change is primarily a marketing decision. Toyota has long associated the "Land Cruiser" name with durability, luxury, and off-road prowess in the U.S. market. By branding the Prado as part of the Land Cruiser lineup, Toyota leverages the strong reputation of the Land Cruiser name to appeal to American consumers. Additionally, the Prado's features and capabilities align closely with what U.S. buyers expect from a Land Cruiser.
Key Features of the Toyota Prado (Land Cruiser)
Whether you know it as the Prado or the Land Cruiser, this SUV is packed with features that make it a favorite among off-road enthusiasts and families alike. Here are some of its standout characteristics:
- Off-Road Capability: Equipped with advanced 4WD systems, locking differentials, and high ground clearance, the Prado is built to tackle tough terrains.
- Luxurious Interior: Leather seats, premium sound systems, and advanced infotainment options make it a comfortable ride for long journeys.
- Safety Features: Toyota includes a suite of safety technologies, such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking.
- Engine Options: Depending on the market, the Prado offers a range of powerful and efficient engines, including diesel options in some regions.
Conclusion
In the United States, the Toyota Prado is marketed as part of the Land Cruiser family, reflecting Toyota's strategy to unify its branding and capitalize on the Land Cruiser's strong reputation. Whether you’re looking for a reliable off-road vehicle or a luxurious family SUV, the Prado (or Land Cruiser) is a versatile choice that delivers on all fronts.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Prado in the USA?
It is marketed as the Land Cruiser 250 in Japan and simply the Land Cruiser in North America and some European countries. Some other markets such as Australia, China, Philippines, and other European countries retain the Land Cruiser Prado nameplate.
What is the Toyota Prado the same as?
The Prado may also be referred to as Land Cruiser LC70, LC90, LC120, LC150 and LC250 depending on the platform. In some markets, it is known simply as the Toyota Prado or the Toyota Land Cruiser.
What is the US equivalent of the Toyota Prado?
Lexus GX
Overview of the 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser Prado
If the name Prado seems foreign, the Lexus GX and the 4Runner may be more familiar to American ears. They are the same vehicle with different branding, and while the rest of the world may know what a Prado is, Americans have never seen a Prado badge on their car lots.
What is the full name of the Toyota Prado?
Landcruiser Prado | Toyota Motor Corporation Official Global Website.
Does Toyota sell Prado in the USA?
The Prado Returns to the North American Market
After being out of the market for a few years – the 2021 200 Series was the last series sold in the U.S. – it's a welcome addition to the American SUV lineup.
Is Toyota Prado same as Land Cruiser?
Widescreen View, Washer, and Rear Vision Camera are standard features on all five Land Cruiser 2022 versions. The Prado 2023 is only available with a rear-view camera. The Land Cruiser 2022 has an electrical parking brake withhold, whereas the Prado 2023 has electronic brake force distribution.
Why is Prado not sold in the USA?
Its looks and performance won't match the needs of the US market. Rumors suggest that when the U.S. receives the Prado it will be on its next generation which will share the same platform as the current Tundra (but in a smaller version) upcoming Tacoma, and the upcoming 4Runner.
Is Toyota Prado same as Lexus GX?
There are only minute differences between the two, and that extends to their off-road capability metrics. Both the Prado and GX can be had with five or seven seats, but one the largest differentiating factors between the two vehicles is cargo space.
What is the Prado in USA?
It is marketed as the Land Cruiser 250 in Japan and simply the Land Cruiser in North America and some European countries. Some other markets such as Australia, China, Philippines, and other European countries retain the Land Cruiser Prado nameplate.
What is the Lexus equivalent of a Prado?
GX
It launched in May 2024, and it is the first time the GX is offered locally, having been kept from Australia in its previous form. Ideal for a family of adventurers, the GX is once again based on the iconic Toyota LandCruiser Prado – also entering its next generation.
