The Toyota LandCruiser Prado has long been a top pick for Australians seeking a reliable, off-road-ready SUV that’s just as capable in the city as it is in the bush. For 2024, Toyota brings a fresh take on this icon with the new-generation Prado—rebuilt from the ground up for better performance, ruggedness, and tech. We recently spent time with the Altitude variant to see just how well it holds up both on- and off-road.
A New Look with Classic DNA
The 2024 Prado embraces a more squared-off, retro-inspired design, taking cues from earlier LandCruiser generations. Its boxy shape gives it a powerful presence on the road and sets it apart from the more rounded SUVs in its class. The Altitude trim in particular gets unique touches like blacked-out styling elements, a sunroof, and a set of 18-inch alloy wheels wrapped in all-terrain tyres—giving it serious off-road attitude straight from the showroom floor.
Inside the Cabin
Step inside the Altitude and you’ll find a refined interior that blends practicality with premium touches. Soft-touch materials, leather accents, and updated digital displays elevate the driving experience. The 12.3-inch infotainment system is responsive and supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, while the digital instrument cluster adds a futuristic feel. The driving position is commanding, and visibility is excellent—ideal for both city driving and navigating tricky trails.
Performance on the Road
Powering the Prado Altitude is a 2.8-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine paired with a new eight-speed automatic transmission and a 48-volt mild-hybrid system. It produces 150kW of power and 500Nm of torque—figures familiar to Prado fans—but the delivery is smoother and more responsive than ever. On-road manners are much improved thanks to the new TNGA-F platform, with less body roll in corners and more comfort over bumps. Despite its off-road roots, the Prado handles daily driving with ease.
Off-Road Capability
Toyota hasn’t forgotten what made the Prado legendary off the beaten track. The Altitude variant is designed with serious off-road gear:
-
A locking rear differential
-
Disconnecting front stabiliser bar for increased wheel articulation
-
Multi-Terrain Select and Crawl Control systems
-
Generous ground clearance and water wading depth
On technical trails, the Prado felt confident and controlled. The off-road modes allowed it to adapt seamlessly to varying surfaces, and the hill descent features worked as expected on steep grades. For those who plan to explore more than just the pavement, the Altitude delivers real capability.
Practicality and Everyday Use
While the Altitude is focused on adventure, it still meets the needs of everyday drivers. It comes as a five-seater, with the option for seven seats available in other trims. Boot space is decent, and although the battery system for the hybrid setup sits under the cargo floor, it doesn’t majorly impact storage. The Prado retains its 3,500kg towing capacity, and the load capacity is more than sufficient for weekend getaways or family road trips.
Safety and Tech
As expected from a Toyota, safety hasn’t been overlooked. The Prado Altitude features a full suite of driver-assistance systems, including:
-
Autonomous emergency braking
-
Lane departure warning and lane keep assist
-
Adaptive cruise control
-
Blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert
The 360-degree camera system and digital rear-view mirror are particularly useful for tight maneuvering and off-road driving. The Prado now feels just as smart as it is strong.
Pricing and Value
The Prado Altitude is positioned near the top of the lineup and comes well-equipped for its price. You get most of the luxury and tech features of the Kakadu model but with added off-road credibility thanks to its mechanical upgrades. It represents a solid value for those who want both comfort and serious capability.
Final Verdict
The 2024 Toyota LandCruiser Prado Altitude is a successful evolution of a proven formula. It keeps the toughness that has made the Prado a legend while adding sharper styling, improved comfort, better handling, and advanced tech. For drivers who need a vehicle that’s equally at home on the school run or crossing rough terrain, the Altitude is a compelling choice in the large SUV market.
FAQs
Is the Prado Altitude good for off-roading?
Yes. The Altitude comes with off-road-focused features like a rear diff lock, stabiliser bar disconnect, and all-terrain tyres, making it well-equipped for serious off-road use.
Does the Prado Altitude come with seven seats?
No. The Altitude is a five-seat variant. However, other Prado trims, like the GXL and Kakadu, offer seven-seat configurations.
How fuel-efficient is the 2024 Prado Altitude?
Thanks to the 48V mild-hybrid system, the Prado delivers improved fuel efficiency, with real-world figures hovering around 7.6L/100km depending on driving conditions.
