Update 2010 June: Finally got a chance to write up the 3 door SWB LandCruoser Prado review

Update 2010 May: The voluntary recall to fix the traction stability control on Lexus GX460 sold in the US and Europe has been resolved and the fix is a software upgrade for the model. Businessweek

Note that primary safety like wearing a seat belt is optional in the US hence kind of weird.

New section on small SUV/4WD after all you do need to consider other factors - we are. Small 4WD or SUV comparisons

Update 2 2010 April: The voluntary recall to fix the traction stability control on Lexus GX460 sold in the US and Europe has been resolved and the fix is a software upgrade for the model. Businessweek

Update 2010 April: The Lexus GX460 which is based on the Prado is in trouble!  Toyota has stopped selling them in the US and attempting to confirm the validity of the claims by the 'Consumer Reports' magazine.  News from Yahoo.

Read the article not just more reporting repeats which appears to be media beat up. Cynically perhaps to get more subscriptions! You be the judge.

I was also thinking that we really rely on cars any car to save us from mistakes. Instead of making us better and more responsible drivers we now blame cars for mistakes - because you shouldn't be driving in an reckless manner anyway sad isn't it.

Petrol
5 door Kakadu - $87,990
5 door VX - $74,490
5 door GXL - $63,490

Diesel
5 door Kakadu - $88,990
5 door VX - $75,490
5 door GXL - $64,490
5 door GX - $58,490

Diesel (Only)
3 door ZR - $65,990
3 door SX - $55,990
 

Update 2010 February: Toyota is in trouble due to faulty accelerators.  Huge recall mainly in the US. The problem appears confined to US made vehicles. Hope it doesn't spread to other models! Peugeot is also in trouble too with shared models.

2010 Toyota Recall - Acclerator Pedals
2010 Peugeot Recall - Accelerator Pedals

There is a shortage of certain Prado models apparently - plenty of VX spec Prado's but not much else.
Also started updating the specs with the NCAP safety rating!
Started looking at utility vehicles or 4x4 pickups as an alternative to the Prado.

- 150 Series Toyota Prado Vs Toyota Hilux
- Toyota Hilux Vs Nissan Navara

Update 2009 December: Updated specifications and now included the recommended retail pricing (AUD) for the new 150 series 2010 Prado is as follows Be prepared for a shock!:

Petrol
5 door Kakadu - $87,990
5 door VX - $74,490
5 door GXL - $63,490

Diesel
5 door Kakadu - $88,990
5 door VX - $75,490
5 door GXL - $64,490
5 door GX - $58,490

3 door ZR - $65,990
3 door SX - $55,990

See News from 2009...