Known in some markets as the Prado, the off-roader
sold in Europe as the Land Cruiser has been on the market now since 2009. So
Toyota evidently figured it was due for an update, and that's precisely what it
has revealed this morning at the 2017 Frankfurt Motor Show.
Though clearly based closely on the existing model,
the smaller member of the Land Cruiser lineup has been revised inside, out, and
under the hood to keep it relevant in the 190+ countries around the world where
it's sold and the ten or more European countries where it leads its segment
in sales.
Tweaks have been made to the frame-mounted
sheetmetal, including a new hood, fenders, grille, headlamps, taillights,
wheels, and front bumper. The changes aren't purely aesthetic, either: they
were designed to help the driver locate the vehicle's extremities for
maneuvering the large vehicle, while improving engine cooling, and adding an
extra couple of inches to its overall length in the process.
The interior has likewise been updated with a new
dashboard, instruments, and center console. There's a new 8-inch infotainment
screen, sitting lower to enhance outwards visibility, and new trim
and control surfaces as well.
European customers will be able to choose between
three and five-door bodystyles, ten exterior colors, three interior
combinations, and several engine options. The 2.8-liter four-cylinder
turbodiesel comes mated to a six-speed automatic or manual transmission,
producing 177 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque. There's a 2.7-liter gasoline
engine paired with a five-speed manual and rated at 161 hp and 181 lb-ft, and a
4.0 with a six-speed automatic at 249 hp and 281 lb-ft.
Availability depends on specific markets within
Europe and in other markets. And while these updates apply to the Toyota,
Americans shouldn't be surprised to see a similarly revised Lexus GX follow
soon as well.
