
Prado VX refers to the high-end version of the Toyota Prado, which includes additional practical features such as lane assist, panoramic cameras, and steering wheel heating, along with full LED headlights. Taking the 2019 Toyota Prado as an example, its body dimensions are: length 4840mm, width 1885mm, height 1890mm, with a wheelbase of 2790mm and a fuel tank capacity of 87 liters. The 2019 Toyota Prado features a front suspension with a double-wishbone independent suspension and a rear suspension with a four-link non-independent suspension. It is equipped with a 3.5L naturally aspirated engine, delivering a maximum horsepower of 280PS, a maximum power of 206kW, and a maximum torque of 365Nm, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission.

The Prado VX is essentially the top-tier luxury version. I've interacted with many off-road enthusiasts and noticed that quite a few are confused about the differences between the TX and VX. The VX variant comes standard with features like leather seats, seat ventilation and heating, dual-zone air conditioning, and a JBL sound system. It also includes heating wires on the windshield to prevent icing. The most significant difference lies in the chassis: the VX is equipped with the KDSS dynamic suspension system, which automatically disconnects the stabilizer bar during cornering, significantly enhancing handling stability. Additionally, it features air suspension that allows for chassis height adjustment, increasing wading depth by 3 cm compared to the standard version. While full-time four-wheel drive and a central differential lock are standard across the lineup, the VX's Multi-Terrain Monitor is particularly practical, providing a clear view underneath the vehicle when navigating obstacles. When a used Prado, remember to check if these exclusive functions are operating properly.

I remember researching the meaning of VX when helping a friend inspect a used Land Cruiser Prado two years ago. In Toyota's system, VX stands for Extreme Luxury. The most obvious way to identify it is by looking at the tailgate: the VX spare tire cover has chrome trim, while the TX has plain black plastic. For the interior, it features a wood-grain steering wheel, a center console with a refrigerated glove box, and the front passenger seat has electric adjustment, which the TX lacks. Active safety is a key feature, with standard ACC adaptive cruise control and a pre-collision system, and the millimeter-wave radar is hidden in the front emblem. The air conditioning system is more advanced, with independent vents for all three rows of seats and a PM2.5 filter. However, post-2020 VX models no longer include the chassis lift function, which is an important point to note when purchasing.

Toyota's use of VX to denote the high-end trim is quite practical. During , it was discovered that the VX chassis has four additional height sensors compared to the TX, and the transmission cooler is also larger in size. The interior features a stitched leather steering wheel with heating function, and the illuminated door sill plates are particularly noticeable at night. In terms of safety features, it includes additional knee airbags and blind-spot monitoring, along with ISO-FIX child seat anchors in the rear. The automatic climate control comes with humidity sensing, and the front windshield defrosting is twice as fast as manual air conditioning. The most valuable feature is the tighter low-range gear ratio in the transfer case, allowing it to climb a 30-degree slope without needing a running start. When selecting a used model, it's recommended to test the speed of the air suspension's lift and drop, as older vehicles are prone to malfunctions.


