Probably, most of you would love taking your Volvo with tough Volvo shocks on a wild trek or driving it across a long desert without worrying about the fuel consumption. But, wouldn’t you want such experience with a Toyota? I suppose you do. So, let us talk about a test on the Toyota Prado in the Simpson Desert I found in carsguide.news.com…

Actually, Toyota Prado is known as an urban warrior, considering that it was able to win the Overlander magazine’s “2006 4WD Of The Year” award. But then, it would be nice to have it in a toughness test to prove its power on a longer outback journey.

Since it is quite a crucial test and a long journey, the vehicle, Prado GXL D4D, was equipped with a genuine Toyota cargo barrier, an alloy front bulbar and few safety items. There is also a well-installed RhinoRack rook rack. Supplies, equipment, camping gear and an Engel fridge are all packed safely in the luggage area through the cargo barrier.

The vehicle on test has been installed with a set of Goodyear Wrangler tyres to optimize the tough performance of the outback.

On highway, the Prado was proven comfortable, quiet and relaxed, though some 4WD tyres can be noisy. But, the custom-fitted Goodyears were definitely quiet.

The Prado has a fuel capacity of 18 liters. It allows big distances between stops at over 1500 km. Plus, the vehicle has decent fuel economy at mid-12s, more than the government-tested ADR figures. However, there was an estimated six per cent odo/speedo error with the taller tyres, and the roof rack; with its greate wind resistance; and higher speed saddled to the Prado’s thirst.

In the Desert, the Prado went through sharp, tyre-destroying rocks and challenging soft sand. But, there has been no trace of any wheel spin because of its full-time 4WD system.

The Prado also went well on smooth gravel. That would be worth the thanks to the frailty of the shock absorbers’ long-stroke valving through some creek crossings and jump-ups.

Check out this site for more of the details on the 6592 km journey for you to know that, overall, the Prado was great!