If you see any news of relief or humanitarian aid on TV, chances are you’ll see a Toyota or two helping out. Whether it’s a Hiace ambulance, a Land Cruiser aid vehicle, or a Hilux, These Toyota models have become a signal for help and aid.
The latest model to join the tough fleet is the all-new Toyota Land Cruiser Prado. We’ve covered the ‘UN-spec’ model before when Toyota Gibraltar Stockholdings (TGS) officially added it to their lineup.
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So, why are we covering it again? Aside from the fact that it looks purposefully cool, TGS rolled out a version that’s been fitted with goodies that make it even more capable and reliable off-road. Displayed at AidEx 2024, TGS is showing what NGOs and government fleets can to the latest Toyota Land Cruiser Prado.
It’s based on the no-frills entry-level version of the SUV. It’s then fitted with a steel bumper at the front and all-terrain tires. A Codan antenna is then built into the bumper, along with ARB LED driving lights and a winch. Also included is a grille mesh to protect the radiator from potential damage.
The roof rack isn’t just for aesthetic purposes. Aside from providing additional space for cargo, the rack also serves as the mounting point for auxiliary lights, solar panel, shovel, and hi-lift jack. TGS chucked out the standard rear bumper for a steel unit, and it also serves as the placeholder for the spare tire and 20-liter jerry can.
Other off-road mods? The suspension has been upgraded over the standard Prado. It also gets underbody protection in the form of skid plates.
As these Prados go where vehicle service isn’t always available, the electrical system has been beefed up via inverters, battery management systems, and battery chargers. Emergency equipment includes a recovery bag, first aid kit, escape hammer, and fire extinguisher.
Communications are key for anyone who’ll end up driving these Prados. Which is why this one comes with a satellite phone, HF and VHF radios, and additional antennas aside from the one on the steel bumper.
While it doesn’t get additional power out of its hood, the 2.8-liter turbodiesel does put out a healthy 201hp and 500Nm. The only modification to the powertrain is the addition of a pre-fuel filter. An auxiliary battery is also included.
As mentioned before, this version of the Prado isn’t available to the general public. The only was to even drive one is to enlist in a government agency that uses it or join an NGO that has it in their fleet. It’s stopping us from wanting to try it out, though.
