Alright, Aussie 4WD lovers, let’s talk about the new 2025 LandCruiser Prado 250 Series. You know, the one Toyota has been hyping up like it’s the second coming of the 79 Series. But here’s the thing—it doesn’t quite feel like it was made for us. And, well… that’s probably because it wasn’t.
Let’s break it down.
The American Influence is Strong with The 2025 LandCruiser Prado 250
If you’ve been following Toyota’s latest moves, you’d know they’ve been cozying up to the US market more than ever. The Prado name? Gone. Over there, they’re calling it the LandCruiser—because in the States, the OG 300 Series LandCruiser was axed due to lack of sales. Toyota needed a more "affordable" LandCruiser option for them, and boom, the Prado 250 is their new hero.
This explains why the new Prado looks more like a baby 300 Series than an evolution of the 150 Series we’ve come to know and love. Boxier styling, throwback round headlights, and a dash design that screams American SUV vibes more than rugged Aussie off-roader.
What’s Changed from the 150 Series?
So, should you upgrade from your tried-and-true 150 Series Prado? Let’s compare:
Engine & Performance
150 Series: 2.8L turbo-diesel (150kW / 500Nm)
250 Series: Same 2.8L turbo-diesel (150kW / 500Nm)… BUT now with a 48V mild hybrid system
Yep, Toyota slapped a hybrid system onto the same engine. While it’ll supposedly improve efficiency, it’s hardly the power boost many of us were hoping for. Meanwhile, the Yanks get an overpowered 2.4L turbo-petrol hybrid with 243kW (326hp). Where’s our power boost, Toyota?!
Chassis & Tech
The ladder frame chassis is carried over from the 300 Series—stronger, stiffer, and more modern.
New full-time 4WD with a center diff lock (but no front or rear lockers on most models).
Bigger 12.3-inch touchscreen and more modern interior, but at the cost of actual buttons (because apparently, touchscreen everything is the future).
Size & Design
It’s bigger than the 150 Series but not drastically so—longer, wider, but lower.
Retro styling—which, let’s be honest, looks pretty damn good. But the real question is… will it perform as well as the 150 in Aussie conditions?
Does It Still Feel Like an Aussie Prado?
Here’s where it gets tricky. The 150 Series was built for us. It was tested in the outback, tuned for our conditions, and became a staple for touring, towing, and family adventures.
The 250 Series? Well, it feels like Toyota built it with the US in mind first, and then handed it over to us as an afterthought. Hybrid tech, American-style features, and a petrol hybrid option we’ll probably never see here.
That’s not to say it won’t be a great 4WD—but will it be as suited to Aussie conditions as its predecessor? Only time (and a few thousand kays of corrugated roads) will tell.
So, Should You Upgrade?
If you’ve got a well-set-up 150 Series, the 250 might not offer enough to justify swapping just yet—especially if you're expecting a serious performance boost. But if you're after modern tech, a fresh chassis, and (maybe) better efficiency, it could be worth a look.
Either way, one thing’s for sure: this Prado wasn’t made with Aussies in mind first. And that’s something we’re not used to when it comes to LandCruisers.
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