Modern Boxy Styling Meets Classic Heritage
Toyota Prado 2025 Returns to the U.S. After almost two decades away, Toyota has confirmed that the Land Cruiser Prado nameplate will re-enter the U.S. market for the 2025 model year. Built on the same GA-F ladder frame that underpins the global Land Cruiser 250, the new Prado keeps the tough, squared-off profile fans remember—flat hood, upright windshield, and heritage “TOYOTA” grille—but shrinks slightly to fit American garages. Circular LED headlights, chunky 18-inch alloys, and squared fender flares give it a throwback look while improving approach and departure angles for serious trail work.
Hybrid Powertrain Promises Muscle and Efficiency
U.S. models get Toyota’s i-Force MAX 2.4-liter turbo-four paired with a 1.9 kWh battery and motor-generator sandwiched in the eight-speed automatic. The combo puts out 326 hp and 465 lb-ft of torque—numbers that rival some V8s yet return a projected 27 mpg combined, about 40 percent better than the last V6-powered Prado sold overseas. A full-time 4WD system with a two-speed transfer case, locking rear differential, and Crawl Control carry over from the larger Land Cruiser, giving the baby brother legitimate off-road chops.
Key mechanical specs
| Item | Prado i-Force MAX |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.4 L turbo-four hybrid |
| Combined power | 326 hp |
| Combined torque | 465 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic |
| EPA target | 27 mpg combined |
Roomy Interior Loaded With Tech
Inside, the Prado seats five in standard SofTex or optional leather. A 12.3-inch touchscreen runs the latest Toyota UI with wireless CarPlay and Android Auto, while the digital gauge cluster shows off-road angles and hybrid energy flow. Physical knobs for volume and climate remain for gloved use. Second-row passengers gain their own USB-C ports, and the 37 cu-ft cargo area expands to nearly 75 with seats folded. An available 14-speaker JBL system, head-up display, and heated steering wheel push it into premium territory without Lexus pricing.
Safety Suite Upgraded for 2025
All trims include Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 with adaptive cruise, lane-centering, and pedestrian detection. New this year is a 3D Multi-Terrain Monitor that stitches four cameras into a live underbody view, handy when crawling over rocks. Eight airbags, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert round out the safety list. Toyota says the body-on-frame chassis now uses 30 percent more high-strength steel, increasing torsional rigidity for better ride comfort and crash performance.
Trim Walk and Pricing Strategy
| Trim | Starting price | Key extras |
|---|---|---|
| 1958 | $48,900 | Cloth seats, steel skid plates, 18-in wheels |
| Modern | $54,900 | Heated SofTex, 12.3-in screen, Multi-Terrain Monitor |
| First Edition | $64,900 | Two-tone paint, roof rack, leather, crawl camera |
Value Points to Remember
- Fuel economy rivals many crossovers yet towing stays at 6,000 lb
- Hybrid battery warranted for 10 years/150,000 miles
- 8.7 inches of ground clearance and 31-degree approach angle aid trail access
- Scheduled maintenance free for the first two years or 25,000 miles
- Dealer deliveries begin March 2025 with 5,000 First Edition units already allocated
Why It Matters
Bringing the Prado back fills a gap between the smaller 4Runner and costlier Sequoia, giving U.S. buyers a midsize, ladder-frame SUV that balances daily comfort with real off-road grit. Add hybrid efficiency and a sub-$50,000 base price, and Toyota may have created the sweet spot for adventurers who want capability without oversized footprints or thirsty engines. Expect strong demand as the brand leverages its 4×4 heritage to win over both long-time Land Cruiser fans and new shoppers seeking electrified toughness.