The Toyota Land Cruiser Prado range has quietly expanded with the arrival of a new flagship VX-L derivative. Here’s what the newcomer costs in South Africa…
- Prado range gains new VX-L flagship derivative
- Newcomer costs R13 100 more than the VX-R
- Full colour-coding, larger alloy wheels and more
The J250-series Toyota Land Cruiser Prado range has quietly welcomed a new flagship VX-L derivative in South Africa, complete with larger alloy wheels, full colour-coding (for the bumpers and wheel-arch trim) and additional standard equipment.
Thanks to a kind heads-up from the ever-observant vehicle-information specialists over at duoporta.com, we know the local Prado line-up now numbers 3 derivatives, with the new VX-L variant slotting in above the VX-R grade. The TX specification continues to play the entry-level role.
While the Prado 2.8GD TX starts at R1 342 200 and the Prado 2.8GD VX-R kicks off at R1 500 200, the freshly launched Land Cruiser Prado 2.8GD VX-L is priced from R1 513 300. That makes the newcomer R13 100 more than its VX-R sibling.
So, what sets it apart? Well, whereas the 2 other derivatives feature black cladding on large sections of their front and rear bumpers – with this treatment further extended to the wheel arches and lower-door trim – the VX-L features full colour-coding.
In addition, this new derivative upgrades from 18-inch alloy wheels to 20-inch rims wrapped in 265/60 R20 tyres. According to Toyota SA Motors’ website, the seemingly more road-biased VX-L also gains adaptive variable suspension, though appears to lose its centre limited-slip differential (while retaining the rear item).
A closer look at the specification sheet shows the VX-L further scores paddle shifters, a 14-speaker JBL audio system (as opposed to the standard 10-speaker arrangement) and 3 extra drive modes (Sport S+, Comfort and Custom, in addition to Standard Eco, Normal and Sport). In terms of exterior paint, this derivative is available only in Platinum White Pearl, Avant Garde Bronze Metallic or Attitude Black.
Like all J250-series Prado derivatives, the VX-L employs the Japanese firm’s familiar 2.8-litre, 4-cylinder turbodiesel engine. Here, the well-known 1GD-FTV motor again delivers 150 kW and 500 Nm to all 4 corners via an 8-speed automatic transmission as standard.
As a reminder, the current-generation Prado launched in South Africa in June 2024. Initially, the local range included special “First Edition” variants based on the VX-R (and visually set apart by their circular headlamps), though these were available for only a short period.
From what we understand, Toyota SA Motors has struggled to keep up with demand for the Land Cruiser Prado, right from the very start. In fact, in its first month on the market (June 2024), as many as 679 units were registered. The brand sold 2 106 units (including a few outgoing J150-series examples) in 2024, with the nameplate’s year-to-date tally at the end of October 2025 standing at 2 768 units.
What does the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado cost in SA?
| DERIVATIVE | PRICE |
| Toyota Land Cruiser Prado 2.8GD TX | R1 342 200 |
| Toyota Land Cruiser Prado 2.8GD VX-R | R1 500 200 |
| Toyota Land Cruiser Prado 2.8GD VX-L | R1 513 300 |
The prices above include a 3-year/100 000 km warranty and a 9-service/90 000 km service plan (with intervals of 10 000 km).
Find a used Toyota Land Cruiser Prado on Cars.co.za!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the price of the new Toyota Land Cruiser Prado VX-L in South Africa?
A: The freshly launched Land Cruiser Prado 2.8GD VX-L is priced from R1 513 300. This makes the new flagship derivative R13 100 more than its VX-R sibling (which costs R1 500 200).
Q: What features differentiate the new VX-L derivative from the VX-R?
A: The VX-L features full colour-coding (lacking the black cladding found on other derivatives), upgraded 20-inch alloy wheels (versus 18-inch), adaptive variable suspension, paddle shifters, a 14-speaker JBL audio system (versus 10-speaker) and 3 extra drive modes (Sport S+, Comfort, and Custom).
Q: What engine powers the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado VX-L?
A: Like all J250-series Prado derivatives, the VX-L employs the 2.8-litre, 4-cylinder turbodiesel engine (1GD-FTV) which delivers 150 kW and 500 Nm. Power is sent to all 4 corners via an 8-speed automatic transmission.
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