Toyota thinks it knows what you like when it comes to the Prado? How can we say that? The elimination of the base model for the 2010 year means that every Prado trim is subject to the luxury tax, with the Kakadu setting prospective buyers back nearly $100,000.

Is it worth it? Well, if you needed the eighth seat, we’re afraid not. That’s been deleted. If you’re looking for a firm ride or a competent tow vehicle, it’s also probably not the best fit. But in spite of the deletion of the entry-level Prado, Toyota has every intention of its SUV taking off in sales, and we won’t fault them the speculation.

At 2,220 kg of full-size SUV, the Prado isn’t going to be listed on any magazine for svelteness. In spite of its size, it manages a tight turning radius that belies its size in urban environments. So too does the visibility help with that feat, offering a clear view of pedestrians and other potential targets for the hefty Toyota.

The engine is powerful if not torque, managing 202 kW in the petrol variant and causing only a small wince at the pump with about 13L/100km in combined driving according to the manufacturer. That means that the gas pedal responds well to driver inputs, even though we wish the body did a little bit better.

Toyota has a history of less-than-involved steering systems and the Prado is no different. The compromise between tarmac and dirt roads means that the Prado tends to wander through turns, leaning ever so slightly before re-settling itself. It also makes towing a bit of a headache without constantly checking your mirrors.

Expect to climb to get into the SUV, which is alright if you’re one of the many drivers that Toyota says takes their Prado off road on a regular basis. Even if not, you can’t fault the storage capacity for day-to-day work, with 742L that you can get when you fold the rear seats down. The configurability of the three rows is nice as well, offering a range of possibilities for smaller families looking to make the best of a long trip.

The interior ranges from very good Toyota to near-Lexus with the Kakadu, and passengers should be happy no matter where they end up, even in the far back where all but the tallest will feel fairly comfortable. In the GXL trim, in addition to three-zone air conditioning, buyers will get extra speakers and cupholders to keep down the racket from any unruly passengers.

Problems begin to crop up if you are in the minority of Prado buyers who don’t fancy a day in the bush or have money issues. Starting at $55,000, the SUV won’t exactly leave a lot left in the bank account. More importantly, the high stance and secondary fuel tank leave the trunk high off the ground, making loading and unloading difficult for the smaller Australian.

Still, with safety features that in the main include seven airbags, traction and stability control, all terrain and traction control, the Prado is safe and comfortable for most situations. It’s not what one would call cheap, and reliability is no longer bulletproof like previous Toyotas. But if you’re looking for a full-size SUV that can handle mud and munchkins with equal aplomb, you should find yourself behind the wheel of a Prado. Toyota’s counting on it, anyway.

Specifications:
Engine: 3,956cc DOHC six-cylinder (24 valve)
Power: 202kW @ 5,600rpm
Torque: 381Nm @ 4,400rpm
Induction: Multi-point
Transmission: Six-speed manual
Driven Wheels: All (with centre LSD diff. & lock)
Brakes: Discs with ABS, EBA & EBD
Top Speed: Not Tested
0-100km/h: Not Tested
CO2 Emissions: 306g/km
Fuel Consumption: 13.0L/100km (ADR)
Fuel Tank Capacity: 87L (main)
Fuel Type: 91 RON Unleaded Petrol
ANCAP Rating: TBC
Airbags: Front, Side, Curtain & Driver’s Knee
Safety: ESC with Traction Control
Spare Wheel: Full-size Matching Alloy
Suspension: Wishbone (F) / Live Axle Trailing Arm (R)
Ground Clearance: 220mm
Cargo Capacity: 742L
Tow Capacity: 2,500kg (Braked)
Turning Circle: 11.6m
Warranty: Three Year / 100,000 kilometre