Which Prado model features full-time four-wheel drive?
2 Answers
The new Prado is a full-time four-wheel drive model. Full-time four-wheel drive utilizes a flexibly connected central differential, along with independent differentials on the front and rear axles, to distribute driving force to all four wheels. The differential in full-time four-wheel drive can be either a viscous coupling type or a multi-plate clutch type. The advantages of full-time four-wheel drive include: 1. Improved starting and climbing ability, independent of load conditions. 2. Better acceleration performance in low gears, especially with high-power engines. 3. Reduced sensitivity to crosswinds. 4. Greater traction in all road conditions, particularly on slippery and winter surfaces. 5. Reduced torque steer effect; more even tire wear.
I've been driving a Toyota Prado for several years and know a thing or two about it. When it comes to the full-time 4WD Prado, it mainly refers to models from 2010 to 2019, such as the Prado TX and VX series, especially those equipped with the 4.0L V6 engine, which all come standard with a full-time 4WD system. This means that from the moment you start the car, all four wheels are driven together, without the need to manually switch like in a part-time 4WD system. It performs steadily on both roads and off-road, with strong traction, especially in rainy or snowy conditions where it's less likely to slip. However, some versions after the 2020 model year have been changed and may not be full-time, so if you're buying a used car or an overseas version, it's best to check the manual or VIN code to confirm. I think full-time 4WD is extremely practical for daily commuting, offering a high safety factor. I've driven it on several long trips, and even on bumpy mountain roads, it handled just fine. The fuel consumption is slightly higher, but compared to the part-time system that only engages on rough roads, the full-time system is much more hassle-free. In short, always check the year and model label before choosing a car.
