Here’s a 2025 comparison between the Toyota Land Cruiser 300 Series (LC300) and the Land Cruiser Prado 250 Series (Prado) — focusing on whether paying $40K+ more for the V6 LC300 is worth it and which one uses hybrid systems.
So: **Compared to a mid‑range Prado Kakadu (~A$100K), the LC300 entry trims can cost A$25–30K more, and fully specced up, the difference can approach A$40K+.
Engines & Hybrid Systems
Prado 250 Series
- Powered in Australia by a 2.8‑litre turbo‑diesel inline‑4 (150 kW, 500 Nm).
- Includes a 48 V mild‑hybrid setup (motor‑generator adds ~8 kW / 65 Nm, with 4.3 Ah lithium‑ion battery) to smooth acceleration and improve efficiency—not adding power intensity.
- Combined consumption: ~7.6 L/100 km.
Land Cruiser 300 Series
- Features a 3.3‑litre twin‑turbo V6 diesel engine (227 kW, 700 Nm) in Australia.
- In some other markets (e.g., North America, Europe), Toyota offers a hybrid 2.4 L turbo‑petrol i-Force Max with ~243 kW and 630 Nm.
- The diesel V6 in Australia is non‑hybrid, so you don’t get electric assist there — only the big V6 power.
Pricing: How Big Is That Price Gap?
Prado 250 Series (Australia pricing before on‑road costs)
- GX: ≈ A$72,500
- GXL: A$79,990
- VX: A$87,400
- Altitude: A$92,700
- Kakadu (top spec): A$99,990
Land Cruiser 300 Series (Australia estimate)
- Starting around A$96,990 for entry, up to ~A$144,990 for high‑end trims.
So: **Compared to a mid‑range Prado Kakadu (~A$100K), the LC300 entry trims can cost A$25–30K more, and fully specced up, the difference can approach A$40K+.
Is the V6 Worth the Extra A$40K?
Advantages of LC300 V6 Diesel
- Much greater power and torque (227 kW / 700 Nm vs 150 kW / 500 Nm).
- Shared towing capacity (both rated ~3,500 kg), but strong performance under heavy load.
- Smoother, more refined for high-speed and off-road touring.
Prado’s Case
- Lower fuel consumption (~7.6 L/100 km) vs LC300’s ~8.9 L/100 km.
- Mild‑hybrid setup brings smoother starts and regeneration—but no extra power.
- Lighter (2,495–2,595 kg vs ~2,630 kg).
- More affordable, less servicing costs, five years warranty and capped servicing.
Buyer Considerations
- Do you haul heavy loads or tow regularly? If yes — especially towing >2,700 kg in hilly terrain — the V6 offers stronger torque and driveability.
- Want premium comfort and performance? LC300 is more refined and smoother.
- Are fuel economy and cost of ownership important? Prado wins with lower fuel use, lighter weight, and cheaper purchase.
- Need a hybrid?
- Prado uses a 48 V mild-hybrid diesel—efficient but modest benefits.
- LC300 in Australia has no hybrid; in some overseas markets, a petrol hybrid version is available—but not locally.
Summary Table
| Feature | Prado 250 Series | Land Cruiser 300 Series |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2.8 L I4 Turbo-diesel + 48 V mild hybrid | 3.3 L Twin‑turbo V6 Diesel (non-hybrid, AU market) |
| Power / Torque | 150 kW / 500 Nm | 227 kW / 700 Nm |
| Fuel Consumption | ~7.6 L/100 km | ~8.9 L/100 km |
| Towing Capacity | ~3,500 kg | ~3,500 kg |
| Price (AU, base vs top spec) | A$72.5K – A$99.99K | A$97K – A$144K |
| Hybrid Capability | Mild-hybrid diesel | None in AU; petrol hybrid available overseas only |
| Best For | Efficiency, affordability, moderate towing | Power, luxury, long-distance touring |
Final Take
- Is the V6 worth A$40K more? Only if you value significantly greater performance, towing ease, and refinement — and don’t mind the higher fuel and purchase cost.
- If efficiency, lower upfront cost, and modern hybrid tech matter most — the Prado is a smart pick.
- Hybrid-wise, the only hybrid in AU market is the Prado’s mild hybrid diesel. LC300 doesn’t offer hybrid variants in Australia.