TOYOTA’S 150 Series LandCruiser Prado has been around since 2009 and the latest version tested here represents the biggest cosmetic makeover since 2013, while an all-new engine and transmission combo arrived in 2015 to address Euro 5 emissions requirements.

Despite its age and relatively high price, the Prado’s reputation as a tough, reliable, go-anywhere Swiss Army knife on wheels has helped maintain its position as Australia’s best-selling large SUV with a dominating 13.8 per cent market share in 2017 and sales that grew by 8.5 per cent in a segment that was down 2.0 per cent during the year.

Arguably the best-looking Prado yet inside and out, this latest update finally receives a segment-competitive 3000kg towing capacity along with price cuts and equipment upgrades across the board – including the democratisation of active safety tech for lower-grade variants.

We tested the second-from-top VX that has benefited from a number of trickle-down treats from the flagship Kakadu, resulting in a luxurious off-roader with none of the complex suspension and electronic driveline adjustments that can be perceived as more stuff to go wrong when travelling in remote locations.