Since its introduction in 1990, the Toyota Prado has been a highly sought-after SUV in Australia, thanks to its rugged design, impressive off-road capabilities, and reliability. This year, the Prado celebrates its 30th anniversary as a standalone model in the Australian market, and to mark this milestone, we took the top-of-the-line Kakadu for a test drive. The question on everyone’s mind is, does the Prado still live up to its legacy? We can confidently say, yes, it does.
The Prado has always been known for its tough and robust exterior, and the Kakadu is no different. Its bold grille, sleek LED headlights, and muscular body give it a commanding presence on the road. The 30th-anniversary edition also comes with a special badge, reminding us of its long-standing history in the Australian market. But it’s not all about looks; the Prado Kakadu is built to handle any terrain with its high ground clearance, sturdy suspension, and four-wheel drive system.
Stepping inside, we were greeted with a spacious and luxurious cabin, equipped with all the modern comforts one would expect from a top-of-the-line SUV. The leather-trimmed seats were not only comfortable but also had heating and cooling options, perfect for Australia’s varying weather conditions. The second and third-row seats can be easily folded, providing ample cargo space for all your adventures. The Kakadu also comes with a sunroof, allowing natural light to fill the cabin, giving it an airy and open feeling.
As we started our journey, we were impressed by the Prado’s powerful 2.8-liter turbo-diesel engine, producing 450Nm of torque and 200kW of power. The engine was mated to a smooth and responsive six-speed automatic transmission, making gear changes seamless. The Kakadu also comes with Toyota’s Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System, which automatically adjusts the suspension for a comfortable ride on the road and improved articulation off-road.
One of the most significant upgrades in the 30th-anniversary edition is the inclusion of Toyota’s Safety Sense package, which includes a suite of advanced safety features such as lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and autonomous emergency braking. These technologies not only make driving safer but also give the driver peace of mind.
But what sets the Kakadu apart from other models in the Prado range is its off-road capabilities. We took it off the beaten track, and it handled everything we threw at it with ease. The Multi-Terrain Select system allows the driver to choose between different driving modes, depending on the terrain, making it suitable for all types of off-road adventures. The Crawl Control feature also comes in handy when tackling steep or slippery terrain, as it maintains a constant speed without the need for the driver to operate the pedals.
One of the standout features of the Kakadu is the Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System, which not only improves on-road comfort but also provides exceptional off-road performance. The system automatically adjusts the suspension, allowing for better wheel articulation and traction on uneven surfaces. This, combined with the Prado’s impressive 700mm wading depth, makes it a go-to choice for those who love to explore the great outdoors.
In conclusion, as the Prado celebrates 30 years as a standalone model in Australia, the Kakadu continues its legacy of being a reliable, powerful, and capable SUV. It offers the perfect blend of luxury, comfort, and off-road prowess, making it a top choice for families and adventurous individuals alike. With its advanced safety features, spacious cabin, and off-road capabilities, the Prado Kakadu proves that it has stood the test of time and will continue to be a favorite among Aussies for years to come. Happy 30th anniversary, Prado!
