Toyota Land Cruiser Prado coming to India in 2025, will rival Land Rover Defender

Toyota Land Cruiser Prado will make a comeback in India in the second half of 2025, Autocar India reported. This SUV, which was discontinued in 2020, will re-enter the Indian market with fresh updates and improved features.

Prado was pulled from the market when it couldn’t comply with new BS6 emissions standards. However, Toyota has now revamped its lineup, including the larger Land Cruiser, which returned as the LC 300. The upcoming Prado will join this segment as a more compact, capable off-roader.

Comparison with 2020 Land Cruiser Prado

Specification	Land Cruiser Prado (discontinued)	New Land Cruiser Prado (JC250)
Engine	3-litre diesel	2.8-litre diesel with 48V mild hybrid
Power Output (bhp)	171	204
Torque (Nm)	410	500
Transmission	5-speed automatic	8-speed automatic
Drive Type	AWD	AWD
Length (mm)	4,780	4,920
Width (mm)	1,885	1,980
Height (mm)	1,880	1,870
Wheelbase (mm)	2,790	2,850
Fuel Tank Capacity (litres)	87	87
Price (ex-showroom, India)	Rs 96.30 lakhs	TBA

Before discontinuation, the SUV had a 3-litre diesel engine producing 171 bhp mated to a five-speed automatic gearbox. While it was a capable off-roader, the new model has received significant mechanical and technological upgrades, including a more powerful engine, improved suspension and enhanced off-road driving modes.

What’s new?

The new-generation Land Cruiser Prado, also known as the Land Cruiser 250 in some markets, will be slightly larger and offer more comfort than the older model. It will retain the iconic ladder-frame chassis but with a 50% increase in rigidity, making it even better suited for tough terrains. Its interior has also received a major overhaul, with features like multi-zone climate control, plush leather seats and a 12.3-inch infotainment system.

It is expected to be powered by the familiar 2.8-litre diesel engine, same unit powering the Toyota Fortuner. Overseas, it will also come with a 2.4-litre petrol-hybrid engine. When it comes to rivals, it competes with the Land Rover Defender.

Toyota’s strategy for India

By reintroducing the Land Cruiser Prado as a Completely Built Unit (CBU), Toyota is looking to tap into India’s growing demand for luxury off-roaders. Positioned below the LC 300, the Prado will cater to buyers who want a rugged, premium SUV that’s equally at home in the city as it is in tough terrains.

Moreover, there are rumours that Toyota is working on a ‘mini’ Fortuner or Land Cruiser FJ, which could make its way to India in the coming years. This would further strengthen Toyota’s presence in the SUV segment, offering a wider range of products for different price brackets.

Also, read Volkswagen to use affordable CMP 21 base for its new EVs in India

Source - Autocar