Mild hybrid powertrain sole choice for new-gen model.

GOING to a 2.8-litre turbodiesel with a 48 volt hybrid assist will lend eco credibility to the new edition of Toyota’s Land Cruiser Prado, the local distributor has suggested.

Whether it will remove the model from the CO2 count blacklist that has restricted sale the full-sized Land Cruiser is not clear. 

No economy and emissions details relating to the new model’s powertrain have been shared by Toyota New Zealand, whose confirmation that it will come here in early 2024 in several seven seat derivatives has timed with the vehicle’s international unveiling.

TNZ has pulled back availability of the full-sized Land Cruiser 300 Series and its Lexus version, the LX 570, as part of a strategy to meet the national CO2 targets established by Government. The Palmerston North brand is presently ahead of its internal target.

Forty-eight volt systems are the mildest form of hybrid and though useful for performance pep, their contribution toward lowering emissions and enhancing fuel burn can be mixed, but is generally considered modest. 

For it’s part, TNZ cites only that will deliver more linear acceleration and reduced carbon emissions.

In respect to the latter, local boss Neeraj Lala has offered: “The new powertrain should realise an average carbon saving of around five percent compared to the current model, which will continue to support Toyota New Zealand’s target of a 46 percent reduction in tailpipe emissions across our entire product portfolio by 2030.”

TNZ is also suggesting that, with this model, it’s sports utility line-up will “be almost fully electrified” with only the Land Cruiser 300 and Fortuner not available as a hybrid-electric powertrain. 

It points out that Toyota Yaris, Corolla, Camry, CHR, RAV4 and Highlander ranges are all now solely available in hybrid offerings, though the systems in those appear to be different to that going into Prado.

There is no comment yet from TNZ about whether the Prado will also be a limited count car, but Lala says he’s excited for it to arrive here.

“Our SUV range is now largely available in a hybrid electric powertrain, as we continue to transition to electrified models where we are able to with a focus on capability, safety and affordability,” he said in prepared comment today.

“We are focused on ensuring that we offer the best possible mobility solutions to all of our customers, and this includes those that need a vehicle that is very capable off road to get around our geographically diverse country.” 

He believes the new model will make a statement for the customers who purchase it. 

“It’s an iconic design and will be a significant game changer that will continue to light up our line-up and I am excited for it to arrive in New Zealand.

“The Prado has a direct connection to the original roots of the Land Cruiser heritage that spills out in the design of this next generation. 

“Toyota’s design decisions are around making the cars appeal to our customers rather than making them all look the same. This new Prado is an absolute knock out. Its strong, and it’s tough.”

Lala suggests the model harks back to its core values and simplicity, in design, features and performance, while still taking the nameplate into the future, with new technology. 

Toyota says the car is a completely modern design and is focused on securing off-road performance and improved visibility for the driver and passengers. 

The increased wheelbase – up 60mm to 2850mm - provides better stability combined with improved ground clearance, a lower beltline for improved visibility, and reduced hood blind spots so the driver has a better sense of where they are on and off the road, adds to the new generation’s capability.

The automatic transmission now has eight speeds, up from six, and the towing capacity has improved from 3100kg to 3500kg.