For the sake of this healthy argument, I disagree with the sentiment that these cars are becoming less suitable for off road use. It all depends on what your expectations are.
It's clearly demonstrable that these things are getting more and more capable - even in stock trim - than they ever were before. Toyota are doing an incredible job of improving abilities whilst simultaneously improving comforts... urban users will always buy our cars, hell they even buy 70 series occasionally so these buyers need to be considered in design.
And make no mistake that we benefit from the large volume of users. if the only people using these things were hard core bushies then the lower production volumes would be reflected by higher purchase costs. There'd be less opportunity for experience-based refinement to reliability and durability. There'd be less frequent model revisions, fewer aftermarket items etc etc etc. You don't want to be the owner of an uncommon vehicle.
So they look a bit swish, they get scratched, you get mud in the carpet. I'd rather drive a car that keeps me safe & comfortable than a tin box that I can hose out.
As for the ability to take accessories like bullbars & stiff springs... these are modern, high tech 4wd vehicles. Don't try to turn them into trucks. If you want an old-style 4wd & all the durability that comes with it, don't buy a Prado, buy a troopy. You'll have to drive 2/3s the pace but will still go deaf, your back will go, your fillings will fall out, you'll be exhausted by the sun pouring in through the windows and reflecting off the bonnet (if you haven't driven a troopy in the desert then just trust me it's like being on snow but hotter) & fatigued beyond belief. Great trip. Body panels didn't crack. Yay I'll tell my chiropractor but he'll get the shits cos I'm shouting & he can't understand me anyway cos I'm missing teeth.
And if you are still interested in the bush you'll go buy a Prado - just drive the damned thing don't mess around with it - and you'll never look back.
It's clearly demonstrable that these things are getting more and more capable - even in stock trim - than they ever were before. Toyota are doing an incredible job of improving abilities whilst simultaneously improving comforts... urban users will always buy our cars, hell they even buy 70 series occasionally so these buyers need to be considered in design.
And make no mistake that we benefit from the large volume of users. if the only people using these things were hard core bushies then the lower production volumes would be reflected by higher purchase costs. There'd be less opportunity for experience-based refinement to reliability and durability. There'd be less frequent model revisions, fewer aftermarket items etc etc etc. You don't want to be the owner of an uncommon vehicle.
So they look a bit swish, they get scratched, you get mud in the carpet. I'd rather drive a car that keeps me safe & comfortable than a tin box that I can hose out.
As for the ability to take accessories like bullbars & stiff springs... these are modern, high tech 4wd vehicles. Don't try to turn them into trucks. If you want an old-style 4wd & all the durability that comes with it, don't buy a Prado, buy a troopy. You'll have to drive 2/3s the pace but will still go deaf, your back will go, your fillings will fall out, you'll be exhausted by the sun pouring in through the windows and reflecting off the bonnet (if you haven't driven a troopy in the desert then just trust me it's like being on snow but hotter) & fatigued beyond belief. Great trip. Body panels didn't crack. Yay I'll tell my chiropractor but he'll get the shits cos I'm shouting & he can't understand me anyway cos I'm missing teeth.
And if you are still interested in the bush you'll go buy a Prado - just drive the damned thing don't mess around with it - and you'll never look back.
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