Land Cruiser Prado 150
J150 Series
"South Africa's most popular Land Cruiser. The right size, the right price, the right capability."
About the Land Cruiser Prado 150
The 150 Series Prado became South Africa's most popular Land Cruiser by threading a needle no other vehicle quite managed: genuine off-road capability in a practical, comfortable, family-sized SUV at a price point more people could reach. With full-time 4WD, a 3.0 D-4D turbodiesel (replaced by the 2.8 GD-6 in late 2020), KDSS on higher specs and Multi-Terrain Select, it could tackle serious off-road terrain while also serving as a daily family car. Over its 15-year production run it refined itself into a genuinely excellent all-rounder.
Who It's For
Families, weekend overlanders, and buyers who want a capable, comfortable 4x4 for a mix of tar and off-road use without the running costs or size of a full 200 Series. The 150 Prado is South Africa's ideal do-everything vehicle.
Pros & Cons
Strengths
- Sweet spot of size, price, and capability
- KDSS on higher specs dramatically improves articulation
- Comfortable and refined daily driver
- Huge SA used-car market: great selection and competitive pricing
- Strong resale value
- Good fuel economy vs full-size Land Cruisers
Weaknesses
- The 3.0 D-4D diesels (to 2020) feel underpowered next to the 150 kW 2.8 GD-6 that replaced them in late 2020
- IFS front: not as capable as 70 Series in extreme terrain
- Smaller fuel tank than full-size LC
- Ground clearance lower than the 200 Series
- More expensive new than its size suggests
Buying Tips
- 1 The 2.8 GD-6 (150 kW, 500 Nm) arrived in late 2020 and is significantly better: target these. 2020 is a split year, so check the engine, not the year
- 2 On a 3.0 D-4D, ask about injector and fuel filter history
- 3 VX spec includes KDSS, leather, and more: worth the premium on used market
- 4 Check KDSS for leaks: actuators and lines on older examples
- 5 Diesel only for overlanding: the petrol V6 is thirsty
- 6 Inspect the front diff and transfer case for leaks and unusual noises
- 7 Full Toyota service history is important: parts costs are significant on older examples
Common Issues to Check
- KDSS leaks on high-km examples
- DPF (diesel particulate filter) issues on vehicles used mainly in urban stop-start traffic
- 3.0 D-4D diesel (to 2020): adequate but noticeably less power and torque than the later 2.8 GD-6
- Brake dust accumulation causing squeal on some early examples
Ready to buy?
Browse Land Cruiser Prado 150 listings for sale in South Africa
