The Toyota Land Cruiser 250 has made its debut in Japan, marking the end of the Prado designation that has been in use since 1990. Positioned as the "core model" within the Land Cruiser lineup, this rugged off-road vehicle joins the ranks of the more luxurious 300 Series and the iconic 70 Series.
Embracing the TNGA-F architecture, the Land Cruiser 250 stays true to the series' ladder-frame heritage. Measuring 4,925 mm in length with a wheelbase of 2,850 mm, it offers the choice between five-seater or seven-seater configurations.
In terms of powertrain options, Japanese buyers are not offered the mild-hybrid diesel available in Europe and Australia or the hybrid gasoline option found in North America. Instead, they can select from non-electrified diesel and gasoline engines.
The flagship variant features a 2.8-liter turbodiesel engine generating 201 hp and 500 Nm of torque, paired exclusively with an eight-speed direct-shift automatic transmission. Meanwhile, the less potent 2.7-liter gasoline engine produces 160 hp and 246 Nm of torque, coupled with a six-speed Super ECT automatic gearbox.
Both powertrains come with a full-time 4WD system equipped with a Torsen LSD on the center differential and electronic rear differential lock. Offering enhanced off-road capabilities, the model boasts six driving modes through the Multi-Terrain Select system and a Multi-Terrain Monitor utilizing input from four cameras.
While North American buyers are limited to a single hybrid powertrain, Japanese customers can choose between the 2.8-liter turbodiesel and 2.7-liter gasoline engines. Additionally, they have access to First Edition models, limited to 8,000 units, with distinctive features.
Compared to its predecessor, the Land Cruiser 250 series prioritizes practicality over luxury, with the larger 300 series catering to high-end comfort. The Japanese version closely resembles the EU-spec and US-spec models, with unique touches on the First Edition trims and a range of optional accessories.
The First Edition models, based on mid-spec VX and high-spec ZX trims, feature special LED headlights and 18-inch aluminum wheels with off-road tires. Inside, they sport "First Edition" lettering, leather upholstery, and titanium accents.
Standard equipment includes Toyota Safety Sense ADAS suite across all trims, with higher grades offering the Toyota Teammate ADAS for advanced control features.
The Land Cruiser 250 is now available for ordering at Toyota dealerships in Japan, with prices starting from $33,700 for the base-spec five-seater GX and reaching ¥7,850,000 ($50,872) for the flagship seven-seater ZX First Edition.