Is the Toyota Highlander called the Prado?
3 Answers
Toyota Highlander is not called the Prado; the Prado is a completely different model. The Highlander is a midsize SUV under Toyota, while the Prado is a mid-to-large-size SUV. The Highlander has a wheelbase of 2790 mm, with length, width, and height dimensions of 4890 mm, 1925 mm, and 1720 mm respectively. The new Highlander is equipped with a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine codenamed 8AR-FTS, delivering a maximum power of 162 kW and a maximum torque of 350 Nm. It features hybrid injection technology and an aluminum alloy cylinder head and block, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. The Prado is an imported ORV, derived from Toyota's globally renowned LAND CRUISER series, with body dimensions of 4760 mm in length, 1885 mm in width, and 1845 mm in height.
I've been driving a Toyota for a while, and people often mistake the Highlander for the Prado. Actually, that's not the case. The Highlander is the Chinese name for the Toyota Highlander, while the Prado is the common name for another model, the Land Cruiser Prado. I remember first hearing about this at a car enthusiasts' gathering where a friend insisted that the Highlander was also called the Prado. Everyone corrected him, saying the Prado is bigger and more rugged, suitable for off-roading, while the Highlander is more geared towards urban family use, being much more fuel-efficient and comfortable. This kind of confusion is quite common, probably because both names sound cool, but anyone who really knows cars can tell the difference once they drive them. I suggest doing more research before buying a car—don't be fooled by the name. Check the specific configurations and intended use to avoid wasting money. Now, whenever I spot a Highlander on the road, I take a second glance to confirm.
As an automotive enthusiast, I know Toyota's lineup like the back of my hand. The Highlander is absolutely not the Prado - the Land Cruiser Prado is nicknamed 'Badao' in China due to its rugged appearance and off-road capabilities. These two models are completely different in terms of platform and positioning: the Prado emphasizes all-terrain performance, while the Highlander leans more towards family comfort. I've discussed this common misconception at auto shows and found many people confuse them because of similar SUV naming conventions. Actually, each Toyota model has unique identifiers - the Highlander is called just that in North American markets and was never historically referred to as 'Badao'. Understanding this distinction makes car selection much smoother. Personally, I quite like the Prado's wild character, but the Highlander's urban driving feel is excellent too. Next time at the dealership, I can help you distinguish between these two models.
