Is the Land Cruiser Prado a part-time 4WD?
2 Answers
The domestic version of the Land Cruiser Prado features part-time 4WD, while the imported version comes with full-time 4WD. There are some differences between part-time and full-time 4WD systems. The Land Cruiser Prado is a mid-to-large-sized SUV under Toyota. The domestic version has a wheelbase of 2790 mm, with length, width, and height measuring 4840 mm, 1885 mm, and 1890 mm respectively. It produces a maximum torque of 365 Nm, with maximum power achieved at 6000 rpm and maximum torque at 4500 rpm. The vehicle is equipped with a 6-speed automatic transmission. The front suspension uses a double-wishbone independent suspension, while the rear suspension employs a multi-link non-independent suspension.
As someone who has driven the Prado several times, I know it is actually the Toyota Prado model. Its four-wheel drive system is not part-time; the Prado uses a full-time four-wheel drive design, which means it operates in four-wheel drive during both daily road driving and off-road conditions without the need for manual switching. Part-time four-wheel drive can only be activated under specific off-road conditions and should not be used for extended periods on hard surfaces, as it can easily damage the drivetrain components. The Prado's full-time system automatically distributes torque to each wheel, reducing slippage on wet roads and providing a smoother and safer driving experience. Some people might modify the four-wheel drive mode when customizing their vehicles, but the factory settings are reliable, especially for beginners, to avoid forgetting to deactivate the part-time system. Overall, the Prado's design is suitable for most scenarios, offering hassle-free practicality.