Kajiado Governor Joseph Ole Lenku set social media abuzz when he recently arrived for an event riding in the new 2024 Toyota Prado, a Land Cruiser estimated to be worth Ksh20 million.
The 2024 Toyota Prado 250 series oozes class thanks to its boxy design, making it stand out from other SUVs.
Toyota Prado has always been considered the younger sibling of the Toyota Land Cruiser 300 series, which is popular in the Kenyan market as V8.
The difference between the 300 series and the 250 series has always been very clear, but with the 2024 model, the difference is minor. For instance, the 250 Series is marginally smaller than the 300 Series but 100mm longer, 95mm wider, and 20mm taller than its predecessor.
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Governor enjoying the fruits of devolution. pic.twitter.com/yat2hhexME
— Rodgers Kipembe Mpuru (@RodgersKipembe) November 26, 2024
The 2024 Prado runs on a 2.8-liter turbo diesel engine developing 204 hp (150 kW). It is customized to balance performance and durability.
The all-new Land Cruiser offers an optimum balance between fuel consumption and performance. It's combined with an all-new 8-speed Direct Shift automatic transmission for greater comfort and fuel efficiency.
Interior
The exterior view is fantastic and will make you love the car, but the interior is even better. The 2024 Toyota Prado comes with a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which allows you to comfortably watch your favorite shows or music.
It also boasts a heads-up display, heated and ventilated seats, and a moonroof.
The interior has modern connectivity features that can be accessed directly from the multifunction steering wheel, meaning the driver can control the car by voice, control the audio system, manage their phone calls, and perform other functions without being distracted or losing focus from the road.
Interior view of the 024 Toyota Prado.
The comfort level may make one think they are not inside a car. The Prado is designed for persons who love comfort and efficiency, which could be why the Kajiado Governor acquired one.
Safety and Off-road Capabilities
According to Toyota Kenya, for the first time in the history of the Prado series, the 2024 model has been equipped with an Electric Power Steering (EPS) system that greatly reduces the negative road feedback that can be experienced when driving off-road.
In terms of safety, the 2024 Prado comes with eight airbags and advanced safety systems such as HAC (Hill Assist Control), DAC (Downhill Assist Control), VSC (Vehicle Stability Control), and a Panoramic View Monitor with 360-degree camera view.
In addition to the above, the 2024 Prado has 221mm of ground clearance (210mm running clearance), which makes it suitable to navigate off-road areas.
Kajiado is one of the largest counties in Kenya. Some of its parts are remote and not very well developed in terms of road infrastructure. The Prado's ability to traverse all terrain could be another factor why Lenku settled for it.
Cost
The 2024 Prado ranges from Ksh17.5 million to Ksh20 million depending on where one has acquired it and its adjustments.
It was officially introduced in Kenya in July 2024, making Lenku among the first owners of the multi-million car.
