Used Toyota Land Cruiser Prado review: 2009-2012

NEW

The fourth generation Landcruiser Prado brought new town-friendly refinement on a level never before dreamt of by fans of the popular mid-sized wagon. It also brought new off-road capability that made it almost unbeatable round the bush.

There was a gap of seven years back to the previous model Prado, so it's not surprising that so many changes were made to the new one. The range was made up of 14 models, including a new three-door model, and there was a choice of petrol and diesel engines.

The cabin was roomier with a little extra width, which made it more comfortable, particularly when there was a full complement of passengers on board.

While Toyota described the Prado as "all-new" the mechanical package was largely the same as previous models. The 3.0-litre petrol V6 was given a going over with the result it had a useful lift in both power and torque, and thus more performance.

The turbo-diesel on the other hand was carried over pretty much as was, with the same power and torque as it had in the outgoing model. Even if they rarely leave town Landcruiser buyers expect their vehicles to handle the tough going with ease and the new Prado was certainly up to the task.

Four-wheel drive was standard, with low-range gearing and locking differentials, normally a package able to handle most any off-road driving situation. But on top of all that the new Prado also boasted a new 'crawl' package, a set-and-forget option that made off-road driving even easier.

On the road the new Prado was quieter and more refined, it went a little better than the older model, and was more economical.

NOW

It's no secret that few SUVs actually leave the blacktop, that most of them are town-bound, but the Prado is a little different because of its renowned off-road capability.

It's not only a popular car with families and recreational off-roaders, it's also popular with businesses and governments that make full use of its ability to go bush.

That means it's important to thoroughly check any vehicle for off-road use prior to purchase on the used car lot. If it appears to have been owned by a company or government agency check it even more thoroughly.

Inspect the external panels for dents and scratches, but most importantly get down and look underneath for any sandblasting of the underbody, bent or busted bracketry, split or torn seals, and bashed exhaust pipes and the like. The Prado copes well with normal off-road use, but walk away if it looks like the vehicle has been abused.

Check for a service record that shows regular routine maintenance by a reputable serviceman. Mechanically the Prado is a robust and reliable vehicle, one we get few complaints about at Carsguide.

It's not uncommon to hear a rattling diesel engine in the Prado, particularly when the engine is cold. It's usually worn injectors, and the solution is to replace them.

There have been a few reports of blown diesel engines on earlier models, but it's the same engine so caution is urged. They were caused by sludge accumulation on the oil pickup, which eventually starved the engine of oil.

It's believed to be a result of leakage past the fuel-injector seals that causes sludge to form. The seals are supposed to be changed every 40,000 km, but it appears that doesn't always happen. If in doubt it is worth inspecting the oil pickup.

SMITH SAYS

Very capable off-roader with enough refinement to make it attractive to city dwellers.

Toyota Landcruiser Prado 2009 - 2012
Price new: $55,990 to $88,990
Engine: 4.0-litre V6, 202 kW/381 Nm; 3.0-litre 4-cyl turbo-diesel, 127 kW/410 Nm
Transmission: 6-speed man, 5-speed auto, 4WD
Economy: 11.5 L/100 km (V6), 8.5 L/100 km (DT)
Body: 3-door wagon, 4-door wagon
Variants: GX, GXL, SX, ZR, VX, Kakadu
Safety: 5-star ANCAP

COMING UP

Do you own a Ford Escape? If so tell us what you think of it by sending your comments to Graham Smith at grah.smith@bigpond.com or Carsguide, PO Box 4245, Sydney, NSW, 2010.