Is the Prado domestically produced?
2 Answers
The Prado is domestically produced, but production has ceased as the domestic version cannot meet the China 6 emission standards. Below is more information about it: 1. On June 23, 2020, the last unit of the FAW Toyota Prado 3.5L model rolled off the production line, marking the official and complete discontinuation of the domestically produced Prado (PRADO) series. Sichuan FAW Toyota Motor Co., Ltd. (Chengdu Plant) held a ceremony for the discontinuation of the Prado, which was domestically produced and sold from 2003 to 2020, with a cumulative production of 346,700 units. 2. The current Prado 3.5L model on sale was launched in November 2017, equipped exclusively with a 3.5L V6 engine, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission, and featuring a new part-time four-wheel-drive system. The official price ranges from 435,800 to 604,800 yuan.
Speaking of the Prado, I do know quite a bit about its domestic production history in China. It once had a locally produced version manufactured by FAW Toyota at their Sichuan plant, such as the older LC series models, which were quite affordable back then and commonly seen on roads driven by many off-road enthusiasts. However, due to upgraded national emission policies, domestic production was discontinued around 2020, and now the market mainly offers imported models at significantly higher prices than the domestic versions. I remember the advantages of domestic production were easier maintenance and cheaper parts, making it more suitable for average families. But the latest news is that the new generation Prado might resume domestic production in 2024, with assembly in Chengdu, which would make it more accessible to off-road enthusiasts. Compared to imported models, domestic production can reduce tariffs and offer more localized after-sales services. I often follow related discussions, like how it will adapt to the new energy trend. If domestic production returns, it will definitely benefit SUV buyers.
