Kluger vs Prado: Which Toyota SUV Is Right for You?

Choosing between the Toyota Kluger and Toyota Prado? It can be tough—both are fantastic large SUVs, but they suit different lifestyles. Whether you’re after family-friendly features, off-road capability, or towing muscle, this comparison will help you figure out which model ticks the right boxes for you.

Let’s start under the bonnet.

The Toyota Kluger runs a 2.5-litre petrol-electric hybrid system that delivers a combined 184 kW and 242 Nm of torque. It’s incredibly smooth and quiet, thanks to the CVT automatic transmission. The all-wheel-drive (AWD) system provides extra confidence in slippery conditions. Best of all? Fuel economy. The hybrid Kluger sips just 5.6L/100km and still manages to tow up to 2,000 kg braked—ideal for a small trailer or a weekend getaway with the boat.

In the Toyota Prado, things get more serious. Its 2.8-litre turbo-diesel engine with 48-volt V-Active technology produces 150 kW of power but a whopping 500 Nm of torque. That’s the kind of pulling power you want for serious towing or 4WD adventures. It uses an 8-speed automatic with full-time 4WD. Fuel economy is still impressive at 7.6L/100km, and with a 110-litre fuel tank, it’s made for long-distance touring. It tows up to 3,500 kg braked—no dramas there.

If day-to-day manoeuvrability is a priority, the Kluger may have the edge. It’s slightly shorter and narrower than the Prado (4966mm long, 1930mm wide, 1755mm tall), making it easier to park and navigate tight city streets. All grades have 7 seats, and the turning circle is just 11.4 metres—very agile for a large SUV. The boot is super user-friendly too, with a low load height and flat floor—perfect for prams, groceries, or the family dog.

The Prado is larger overall—4990mm long, 1980mm wide, and up to 1935mm high depending on the grade. You can opt for 5 or 7 seats, depending on your needs. Its turning circle is slightly wider at 12 metres. The boot opening is higher off the ground, but you get added vertical space for taller items. It’s built to handle camping gear, tradie tools, or anything you need for life off the beaten track.

Both vehicles step it up when it comes to cabin comfort.

The Kluger offers:

• Fabric seats in the GX
• Synthetic leather in the GXL
• Leather-accented trim in the Grande Plus, the Grande also gives you a panoramic moonroof, a 12.3-inch touchscreen with JBL audio, 3-zone climate control, and 5 USB ports throughout the cabin.

The Prado matches that with:

• Fabric in the GX
• Synthetic leather in the GXL
• Leather-accented trim in the VX, Altitude, and Kakadu Top grades also offer a moonroof, a 12.3-inch screen with JBL sound, 2-zone climate control, and up to 6 USB-C ports (plus HDMI input on some models).

Both SUVs come equipped with Toyota Safety Sense, including:

• Pre-Collision Safety System
• Lane Trace Assist
• Road Sign Assist
• Blind Spot Monitor
• Rear Cross Traffic Alert
• Reversing camera and parking sensors

The Prado goes a step further, offering off-road focused safety features like:

• Multi-Terrain Monitor
• Crawl Control
• Downhill Assist Control It also adds 9 airbags for extra peace of mind (vs 7 in the Kluger).

This is where the differences really shine.

The Kluger is ideal for sealed roads and occasional gravel. It doesn’t have dedicated off-road tech, and rides on highway tyres. It’s focused on comfort, smoothness, and fuel efficiency.

The Prado is the real deal when it comes to off-road. With full-time 4WD, Crawl Control, and adaptive suspension on higher grades, it’s ready to tackle serious terrain. The Altitude model even comes with all-terrain tyres as standard.

When it comes to ongoing costs:

• Kluger: Every 10,000 km or 12 months
• Prado: Every 6 months or 15,000 km

• Choose the Toyota Kluger if you’re after a smart, fuel-efficient SUV that handles family life with ease. It’s got the tech, comfort, and practicality without the bulk.
• Choose the Toyota Prado if you need rugged performance, heavy-duty towing, and serious off-road capability for work or adventure.

Still tossing up? Come down to Sunshine Toyota, on the lake at Currimundi, and take both for a spin. You’ll know which one feels right the moment you’re behind the wheel.