One of Toyota’s most capable and successful SUVs, the Land Cruiser Prado, will get a new diesel mill.
The 2.8-litre GD-6 diesel engine, which is the main powertrain in the current generation Toyota Hilux and which was recently updated, will now replace the 3-litre engine. The new engine adds 20 kW of power and 50 Nm for a total of 150 kW and 500 Nm.
Toyota says the increased power is available over a wider spread of the engine range. It has also replaced the six-speed autobox with a new unit.
In its new guise, the latest generation 2.8 GD-6 engine has received a raft of upgrades. This includes a new ball-bearing turbocharger with a larger turbine and impeller with improved engine rigidity and cooling. Better fuel economy is achieved through optimised pistons and piston rings, changes to the cylinder block and head, higher fuel-injection flow rate and the adoption of high-performance materials for the exhaust manifold.
Toyota says despite the substantially stronger power outputs, fuel consumption improves to 7.9 litres/100 km and CO2 emissions are down to 209 g/km. Fuel capacity is 150 litres with an 87-litre main tank and 63-litre sub tank. Maximum braked towing capacity has increased to 3 000 kg on 2.8 models that will make towing even more comfortable with the new version.
While updating the engine and gearbox, Toyota also fitted a new infotainment system across the range. The new system now incorporates a larger 9-inch touchscreen display, enhanced voice recognition and compatibility with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and the use of mobile-phone-services like Google Maps on the new system.
Good news for petrol heads is that the 4-litre V6 petrol version remains part of the range and also benefits from the new infotainment upgrade. The petrol engine delivers 202 kW and 381 Nm.
The new version of the Prado will go head to head with the likes of the Mitsubishi Pajero and Land Rover Discovery.
Model Line-Up & Pricing:
2.8L Diesel TX (R939 900), 4.0L Petrol VX (R1 029 000), 2.8L Diesel VX (R1 060 600), 4.0L Petrol VX-L (R1 072 600) and the 2.8L Diesel VX-L (R1 105 800).
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With Women’s Month well under way, Marcia Mayaba reflects on nearly three decades in automotive, the responsibility of leadership, the Woman of Stature honour, and why her greatest achievement may still lie ahead.
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Have you ever noticed that anybody driving slower than you is an idiot, and anyone going faster than you is a maniac?
George Carlin
Mahindra South Africa has introduced the Bolero MaXX Pik Up, a new addition to its single cab range. The model joins the existing Pik Up S4 and S6 line up and is aimed at expanding Mahindra's portfolio of purpose-built transport solutions in the country.
Toyota South Africa Motors has introduced hybrid power to its flagship Land Cruiser 300 range. The new 3.5 litre twin turbo petrol hybrid models expand the line‑up alongside the existing diesel derivatives.
Ford has confirmed the arrival of the first Ranger Super Duty in South Africa during 2027. The model is set to be introduced in a phased approach and will be available in several body styles.
