2005 Toyota Prado VX 4.0 petrol from Australia and New Zealand
Summary:
Great family wagon with genuine offroad and towing ability
Faults:
Nothing.
General Comments:
Purchased this vehicle as a safe family car, and as a tow vehicle for a medium sized boat.
The third row of seats gives the ability to carry up to 8 occupants.
Would have opted for the D4D diesel engine, but these versions commanded a large price premium that I didn't feel was justified for my needs. The 4 litre petrol (1GR-FE) is however an impressively strong powerplant, and I get around 13 litres per 100 km in mixed driving.
Feels solid on the road, and is a good touring vehicle. It does need to be driven cautiously on winding roads, bearing in mind it doesn't have car-type suspension and is high off the ground.
Tows brilliantly - in fact a bit too well, I got a speeding ticket the first time I towed the boat with it.
Disappointing stereo for a vehicle that costs this much new.
Should also come with parking sensors as standard, because rear visibility is poor.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 8th August, 2009
29th Feb 2012, 04:53
Hi there.
I am struggling to make a decision between a Prado and a Fortuner:
2005 Prado 4.0 V6, Auto, 150 000km for R249 000.
or
2007 Fortuner 4.0 V6, manual, 85000km for R217 000.
They are both 4x4.
Which one will be the best buy???
Please reply urgently to martin@flagprop.co.za
23rd Dec 2013, 03:37
I will say buy the Prado.
10th Dec 2016, 13:19
I bought both.
A Toyota Fortuner in 2011 and a Toyota Prado in 2016.
Same 2.7 VVTI engine.
The Fortuner has more basic truck suspension. The Prado feels more "posh" and "big limousine" like on the road.
Both are fun. One costs more than the other. Fuel consumption is about the same.
21st Oct 2017, 23:55
Hi,
I am also faced with a similar situation, albeit between Prado (120) and the Hilux, both v6.
For comfort I will go with the Prado; it just handles much better and the looks appeal to me as well.
In S.A. there are TOO many Fortuners on the road and I don't like the way they drive.
Rand for rand (dollar for dollar) one is cheaper, lower miles on it etc etc.
At the end it comes down as to preference and which vehicle will meet your needs.
23rd Feb 2011, 17:31
We have a 05 VX V6 too. We are very impressed with the vehicle, and I know what you mean about speeding in it, it's very easy. Our Prado was optioned with parking sensors when new (only 2), but still found it hard to park, so we had a rear camera fitted, which is great, and so handy when reversing with trailers etc.