Toyota LandCruiser Prado Van Conversion for UK Market
Toyota UK has transformed the popular LandCruiser Prado into a commercial van, known as the LandCruiser Commercial. This conversion is primarily driven by UK regulations that offer lower annual taxes for commercial vehicles.
The LandCruiser Commercial retains the appearance of a standard Prado but with significant modifications. The second and third rows of seats have been removed and replaced with a hard-wearing flat load floor. A full-height metal bulkhead with a mesh grille separates the front seats from the cargo area. The rear passenger windows are blacked out to comply with UK delivery van regulations.
The cargo area can carry up to 2000 liters of cargo, measuring 1090mm high, 1685mm long, and up to 1286mm wide. While this is less than some other vans, such as Toyota’s own ProAce City which offers 3800L capacity, the LandCruiser Commercial compensates with its superior off-road capability.
The vehicle retains the 2.8-liter four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine, producing 150kW and 500Nm, paired with a permanent four-wheel-drive system and an eight-speed automatic transmission. It also features off-road capabilities like crawl control, downhill assistance, and hill-start assist.
Other features include 18-inch alloy wheels, a 9.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, heated front seats and steering wheel, electric driver’s seat adjustment, dual-zone climate control, and an auto-dimming rear-view mirror.
The conversion is carried out at Toyota’s Burnaston plant in the English Midlands. The LandCruiser Commercial is priced from £52,729 (approximately used to AUD $110,200). It is positioned as the most affordable Prado model in the UK, undercutting the standard Prado which starts at £77,845 (approximately AUD $162,700).
The LandCruiser Commercial represents a niche segment in the UK market, catering to regulations that favor commercial vehicles. Similar conversions exist, such as the Suzuki Jimny and Land Rover’s van variants of the Discovery and Defender.
Key Features and Pricing
- Engine: 2.8-liter four-cylinder turbo-diesel, 150kW/500Nm
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic
- Drive Type: Permanent four-wheel drive
- Cargo Capacity: Up to 2000 liters
- Price: From £52,729 (approximately AUD $110,200)
The LandCruiser Commercial offers a unique blend of off-road capability and commercial practicality, making it an interesting option for those needing a robust van that can handle challenging terrain.
