The Toyota Prado has long been a staple on Australian roads and trails. It is the SUV many families trust for cross-country road trips, off-road adventures, and even daily commutes in the suburbs. With the 2025 model, Toyota introduces one of the most significant changes in Prado history: the arrival of hybrid technology alongside updated styling, enhanced safety, and a renewed focus on both ruggedness and efficiency. This makes the new Prado not only an off-road warrior but also a forward-thinking family SUV for modern Australia.
A Legacy of Toughness Meets Modern Demands
The Toyota Prado’s reputation didn’t happen overnight. Since its introduction in the mid-1990s, the Prado has earned a loyal following in Australia thanks to its durability, reliability, and capability. Farmers, adventurers, and city families alike found value in its unique balance of comfort and toughness. Over the years, the Prado carved out a niche just below the mighty Toyota LandCruiser 300 Series, offering most of the capability in a slightly smaller, more affordable package.
But times have changed. Rising fuel prices, stricter emissions standards, and consumer demand for advanced technology have reshaped the SUV landscape. Rivals like the Ford Everest, Isuzu MU-X, and Mitsubishi Pajero Sport are all making waves with value, features, and capability. To stay ahead, Toyota had to evolve the Prado without losing what made it iconic. The 2025 Prado does exactly that.
Exterior Design – Rugged and Modern
At first glance, the 2025 Toyota Prado commands attention. The design blends traditional boxy proportions with modern details, resulting in a presence that is unmistakably Prado yet fresh. The squared-off front end, muscular wheel arches, and upright stance convey toughness, while sleeker LED headlights, integrated daytime running lights, and a bolder grille deliver a premium feel.
Toyota has leaned into a more adventurous aesthetic, clearly inspired by the LandCruiser 300 and the retro-flavoured LandCruiser 70 updates. Buyers can expect larger alloy wheels, roof rails, skid plates, and optional two-tone paint finishes that enhance its adventurous look. This isn’t just styling for show—Toyota says the design also improves approach and departure angles for serious off-road work.
Engine Options – Diesel and Hybrid Power
The big talking point for the 2025 Prado is its hybrid option. Australia’s SUV market is shifting towards electrification, but full EVs aren’t always practical for long-distance outback trips. A hybrid Prado strikes a sweet spot.
Toyota offers two main powertrains for 2025:
2.8-litre turbo-diesel: This engine, familiar to Prado fans, continues with improvements for better efficiency and smoother power delivery. It remains the go-to choice for long-distance towing and remote touring, thanks to Australia’s still-limited charging infrastructure.
Hybrid petrol-electric system: Borrowed from Toyota’s proven hybrid technology in vehicles like the Hilux Hybrid and LandCruiser, this setup pairs a turbocharged petrol engine with an electric motor. The result is reduced fuel consumption, lower emissions, and strong low-end torque—perfect for city driving and off-road crawling alike.
While Toyota hasn’t officially confirmed exact power outputs for Australia, international models suggest figures around 243kW combined for the hybrid and 150kW for the diesel. Either way, both versions are paired with automatic transmissions and full-time four-wheel drive systems.
Off-Road Capability – Still a True 4x4
One of the Prado’s defining features is its genuine off-road ability. Toyota understands that Prado buyers in Australia want more than just an SUV that looks tough. The 2025 model delivers with a reinforced ladder-frame chassis, low-range gearing, multi-terrain select modes, crawl control, and improved suspension geometry.
Ground clearance remains generous, while water-wading depth is expected to match or exceed the outgoing model. Toyota’s focus on off-road software, such as hill-descent assist and multi-terrain cameras, gives drivers confidence in technical terrain. The hybrid system is even designed to assist with smooth torque delivery at low speeds, which can be a game-changer on rocky or sandy tracks.
For towing, the Prado continues to impress with a braked towing capacity of up to 3,500kg. Whether hauling boats, caravans, or work trailers, it remains one of the most versatile SUVs on the market.
Interior – A Blend of Comfort and Practicality
Inside, the 2025 Toyota Prado strikes a balance between rugged utility and modern refinement. The cabin has been completely redesigned, with improved ergonomics, higher-quality materials, and technology upgrades that bring it closer to premium SUVs.
Highlights include:
A large central touchscreen with Toyota’s latest infotainment software, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Digital driver display for customisable information at a glance.
Wireless phone charging, multiple USB-C ports, and 12V outlets for road trip convenience.
Durable yet soft-touch materials that withstand family life and off-road wear.
Flexible seating configurations with 5- or 7-seat options, offering fold-flat third-row seats for cargo space.
Practicality remains a strong point, with ample cupholders, clever storage compartments, and rear air vents for passengers. Toyota knows Prado buyers often use these SUVs for family duties, so comfort is prioritised alongside ruggedness.
Safety – Toyota’s Latest Tech
Safety has become a cornerstone of Toyota’s SUV lineup, and the 2025 Prado is no exception. It comes equipped with the latest Toyota Safety Sense package, including:
Adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go function.
Lane-departure alert with steering assist.
Pre-collision system with pedestrian and cyclist detection.
Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.
Surround-view camera for off-road and urban manoeuvring.
While ANCAP ratings are pending, Toyota is aiming for the Prado to achieve a 5-star safety score, making it one of the safest choices in the large SUV category.
Fuel Efficiency – Hybrid Advantage
One of the Prado’s weaknesses historically has been fuel consumption, especially when towing or driving off-road. The hybrid option addresses this directly. Early testing suggests the hybrid Prado could deliver around 8L/100km or better in mixed driving, compared to 9–10L/100km for the diesel. While real-world figures vary, the hybrid promises meaningful savings at the pump without sacrificing capability.
This efficiency also reduces running costs for fleet buyers and families alike, making the Prado more attractive to budget-conscious Australians who still need a powerful, capable SUV.
How It Compares – Rivals in the Segment
The large 4x4 SUV market in Australia is competitive, with several strong players:
Ford Everest: Known for its tech-packed cabin and powerful V6 diesel, the Everest is the Prado’s closest rival. The new hybrid Prado offers Toyota a unique edge.
Isuzu MU-X: A more affordable option with strong towing and reliability, though less premium inside.
Mitsubishi Pajero Sport: Offers value and proven off-road credentials but is starting to feel dated against newer rivals.
Land Rover Defender: A premium alternative with advanced tech and off-road chops, but much pricier.
Compared to these, the Prado’s hybrid option and Toyota’s reliability reputation position it strongly, especially for families balancing adventure with everyday practicality.
Ownership, Warranty, and Servicing
Toyota Australia offers a 5-year unlimited-kilometre warranty, extendable to 7 years on the engine and driveline with regular servicing. Capped-price servicing and wide dealership availability further strengthen the Prado’s ownership appeal.
Insurance premiums are expected to be similar to rivals, although hybrid models may carry slightly higher costs due to newer technology. Still, Toyota’s proven hybrid reliability reassures long-term buyers.
Who Should Buy the 2025 Prado?
The new Toyota Prado appeals to a wide audience:
Families needing a safe, practical, and spacious SUV.
Adventurers who regularly head off-road.
Towing enthusiasts with boats, caravans, or trailers.
Buyers who value Toyota’s hybrid efficiency without giving up diesel strength.
It bridges the gap between everyday usability and hardcore adventure capability, making it one of the most versatile SUVs on sale.
Looking Ahead – The Future of Prado
The addition of hybrid power is more than just a technical upgrade. It signals Toyota’s broader direction towards electrification across its legendary 4x4 range. If the Prado hybrid proves successful, it could pave the way for hybrid LandCruisers and even plug-in options in the years to come.
For now, the 2025 Prado offers Australian buyers something truly compelling: a modernised version of a trusted nameplate that respects its past while embracing the future.
Final Thoughts
The 2025 Toyota Prado is not just an update—it’s a reinvention. With bold styling, advanced hybrid technology, proven diesel power, and class-leading off-road ability, it delivers on every front. For Australians who demand a vehicle that can tackle the school run, the outback, and everything in between, the new Prado sets the benchmark.
Whether you’re comparing it to the Ford Everest, Isuzu MU-X, or premium SUVs, the Prado continues to justify its reputation as one of Australia’s favourite large 4x4s. Add Toyota’s hybrid expertise, and it’s clear why this SUV is shaping up to be one of the most important launches of 2025.
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