Land Rover Defender Rival 2026 Toyota Land Cruiser Prado Hybrid Breaks Cover In Europe

Toyota Land Cruiser Prado also known as Land Cruiser 250 in some regions has been updated with a new hybrid powertrain. Sharing this update the company shared that for the very first time this SUV is now equipped with a 48V mild hybrid system. Toyota has added the setup to its 2.8L diesel engine without changing the frame or layout (a similar powertrain update was introduced earlier this month to Fortuner and Fortuner Legender in India). The new version continues with body-on-frame construction and keeps its off-road parameters, including a 700 mm water wading limit.

The hybrid system of the Land Cruiser Prado includes three new components - an electric motor-generator (replaces alternator), a 48V lithium-ion battery and a DC-DC converter. These are added to the existing diesel engine and 8-speed automatic gearbox. The system is designed to work in both on-road and off-road conditions without removing any of the usual capabilities.

The lithium-ion battery weighs 7.6 kg, has 13 cells, and can add up to 12 kW and 65 Nm to the engine when starting off. It sits under the rear deck and doesn’t take away much usable space. Cooling air is drawn from the front, and a dust filter keeps the airflow clean. A fan prevents overheating during continuous use.

The motor-generator provides power assist during acceleration and collects energy when the driver lifts off the throttle. That recovered energy is stored in the battery. System status is shown on the MID - CHG when charging, ECO and PWR when assisting.

While going off-road, the system gives extra torque when crawling over uneven ground and on the other hand while driving on tarmac, it smoothens take-offs and slows down more evenly.

To support the motor-generator, a two-arm belt tensioner has been added. It’s built for diesel engines and rough road use. The belt uses a cotton layer and aramid cord to manage friction and tension. These help maintain consistent operation when driving through water or over dust-covered surfaces. Additional parts limit vibration and stop debris from entering moving parts.

According to the company one of the key changes is a new stop-start system. It now restarts the engine more quickly and quietly. There are two selectable modes ‘NORMAL’ and ‘LONG’ that let drivers decide how long the engine should stay off at signals or in traffic. On inclines, the system keeps the brakes engaged until torque is available to move again.

The information shared by the company states that the 48V hybrid system will be standard on all European Land Cruiser models and bookings for the same are expected to commence soon with deliveries scheduled to begin by the end of 2025. Multiple media reports have suggested in the past that Toyota is planning to bring this SUV to the Indian market. This could be an ideal time to bring this product to India, which is witnessing a significant demand in this segment for the likes of Land Rover Defender series.