LandCruiser Prado chassis secrets revealed
BY MATT BROGAN | 25th Nov 2024
TOYOTA engineers have detailed the crucial role the TNGA-F platform played in delivering a stronger and more capable new-generation LandCrusier Prado, the architecture claimed to give the 250 Series both the off-road ability of the larger LandCruiser 300 Series and the manoeuvrability of a far smaller SUV.
According to those close to the project – including Toyota Motor Corporation deputy chief engineer and TNGA-F designer Minoru Takayama – the architecture that underpins the 250 Series LandCruiser Prado is suitable for a range of applications with wheelbase options from 2850mm to 4180mm.
This flexibility is demonstrated by the body-on-frame architecture’s application in a range of models, including the Tundra, Sequoia, 4Runner, Tacoma, and both LandCruiser 300 and 250 Series (Prado) – which share an identical wheelbase – plus the closely related Lexus LX and GX ranges.
It is also likely to underpin the next-generation HiLux, despite recent rumours to the contrary.
“Although the wheelbase of the 300 and 250 Series is the same, the design of the rear suspension differs considerably, as it has to offer performance in load requirements that are particular to the 250 Series,” Mr Takayama detailed.
“We also had to reduce mass. Mass reduction is very important. But it meant a redesign of the majority of the suspension components for the LandCruiser 250 Series – and many of these changes were defined by customer feedback here in Australia.
“On balance, we feel we have maintained the practical, utility lifestyle of the Prado while improving handling and ease of operation.”
Mr Takayama told GoAuto that the TNGA-F platform could be installed with coil or leaf rear suspension depending on the application.
He said the ability to adapt the architecture to suit a variety of purposes meant these was no reason the platform could not be used to underpin the next-generation HiLux, particularly given its application beneath the latest-generation Tacoma (North America’s HiLux counterpart) and larger Tundra.
“The new platform allows wheelbase variation from 2850mm through to 4180mm in the Tundra. When we look at Tacoma and Tundra, these are very different size vehicles, but are (built) on the same platform,” he explained.
“Tacoma, for example, has leaf suspension … and I believe the TNGA-F platform has the potential to underpin all kinds of vehicles.
“But each vehicle has different demands from the customer, so we cannot always decide the platform from our side, we must always consider the customer demand and reflect that voice (in our product).”
Evidently, Mr Takayama is referring to the cost that a new platform might bring to a new-generation HiLux, particularly in markets where any price increase could see the model lose its competitive advantage.
But given the move to the TNGA-F platform across Toyota’s body-on-frame line-up, and the similarities between previous generation LandCruiser Prado and HiLux models, it is likely the next-generation ute will move to more advanced underpinnings – at least for developed markets like Australia.
“If the customer request to us was that HiLux should be on TNGA-F platform, then of course we will consider it,” added Mr Takayama.
Rumours about a carry-over platform for the next HiLux could point to a two-pronged approach depending on market as, for example, Volkswagen is doing with the first-generation Amarok that is still produced in Argentina for South American markets and was facelifted early this year.
Attending the press conference via video chat from Japan, Toyota LandCruiser 250 chief engineer Keita Moritsu said the TNGA-F platform underpinning the new Prado brings benefits that were unable to be achieved through the previous generation’s F2 structure.
These include increased strength, lower mass, improved towing capability and greater torsional rigidity – all benefits that would elevate a new HiLux beyond its class competitors.
“We wanted to achieve the same level of on- and off-road ability as the LandCruiser 300 Series while at the same time maintaining the driveability and ease of operation of the 150 Series (previous generation Prado),” he said.
“The most important change was introducing the TNGA-F platform. This is the same platform and wheelbase that underpins the 300 Series, but we have shortened the front overhang compared to the previous platform to improve manoeuvrability in tight off-road environments.
“This platform is a foundation for greatly improved rigidity, excellent response, and improved ride and handling both on- and off-road.”
The TNGA-F platform has also improved the rigidity of the structure while at the same time reducing weight.
Mr Moritsu said the frame of the Japanese-built 250 Series LandCruiser Prado offers a 50 per cent increase in torsional rigidity when compared with the outgoing model, as well as a combined 30 per cent increase in torsional rigidity for the body and frame combined.
Importantly, and alongside the changes to body and frame design, the new-generation LandCruiser Prado provides electrically assisted power steering, improved suspension articulation – offering a 10 per cent improvement over the old model plus an additional 10 per cent in the Altitude variant – while also delivering improved braked towing capacity (now 3500kg), and an eight-speed automatic transmission.
But for Mr Moritsu, it is the benefits the TNGA-F platform offers Prado buyers that he is most proud of.
“The TNGA-F platform also benefits packaging,” he added.
“The longer wheelbase results in a greater couple distance between the second- and third rows; the curved floor area is no longer; and the rear seats are wider for five- and seven-seat versions.”
Further forward, Mr Moritsu said the retro-inspired design of the new LandCruiser Prado brings benefits that are perhaps unexpected from the model’s boxy form, including improved forward visibility and a reduction in lateral blind spots.
“The new styling is both modern and traditional, and always functional,” he explained.
“The strong exterior draws on LandCruiser styling heritage – particularly from the FJ40. The recessed cabin is ideal for interior comfort and space … as well as excellent visibility in all conditions.
“The cowl and the instrument panel are set low, while the A-pillar is repositioned to reduce blind spots, and finally, the shoulder line is lower, making it easier to check your surroundings.”
More information on the 2025 Toyota LandCruiser Prado can be found in the links below. GoAuto’s Australian launch review of the model from Kakadu National Park is now available here.
