Tow Test: Toyota LandCruiser Prado GXL 2006 Review

By Doug McIvor 

Toyota no doubt added the LandCruiser tag to its Prado range to link the hard-won attributes of the iconic 4WD, with its medium-sized cousin.

While the similarities are obvious, from the dual range transmission and near unbreakable suspension to the eight-seater configuration, the Prado has a refinement that belies its go anywhere, offroad ability.

The GXL V6 petrol powered wagon would be as much at home on the highway as it would in the outback, except for the automatic gearbox which would mainly be an option for city dwellers.

The six-speed manual model that CW tested, which included a weekend away with the 4m Coromal Pioneer Compac, was great on the open road because it had a gear for every occasion, be it passing slower traffic or using the engine to slow down approaching traffic lights.

Prado’s all new body was produced at Toyota’s European Design studio. It offers improved aerodynamics and efficiency, with a longer wheelbase and increased second-row legroom.

The 4L quad-cam V6 delivers 179kW of power at 5200rpm and 376Nm of torque from 2400 to 4800rpm, which is according to Toyota a 35 per cent increase on the previous model.

The second-generation Prado’s design brief included a full-frame for optimum on and offroad capability, matched to a new chassis package for improved steering, handling, stability and ride.

The new suspension and variable ratio rack-and-pinion steering provided improves stability and handling, leading to more ride comfort. This is evident on a long haul, with the rock solid wagon providing a sedan-like driving experience, made even more relaxing by cruise control and a six-stacker CD player.

All 12 new models have dual SRS airbags, full-time 4WD and eight seats, with a three-point seatbelt and separate head restraints for every seat 

Compared with the superseded GXL, the new version has ABS braking with electronic brake-force distribution and brake assist, an in-dash CD player, air-conditioning and 17in alloy wheels. 

The latest Prado has a 180L fuel capacity, returning an average of 13.8L/100km. However, a return trip to Capel between Bunbury and Busselton in WA’s south-west, with 1040kg Tare and caravan in tow, bumped that up to 17L/100km.

The wagon has a 2500kg braked towing capacity, with the outside rearview mirrors so big that towing mirrors were not necessary.

The rear storage area is cavernous, with a grooved rubber mat preventing gear from sliding around, and a toolkit concealed behind a flap in the back door.

With the low range option engaged, the Prado would make the ideal companion for an offroad van or camper trailer, taking occupants to campsites well beyond the regular tourist destinations.

The GXL V6 petrol with manual transmission has a recommended retail price of $53,290.