The 2018 Toyota Land Cruiser Prado TXL (2.7L Petrol) is best described as a "bulletproof" all-rounder. It strikes a rare balance between luxury and mechanical simplicity, making it one of the most reliable long-term investments in the SUV world.

​The heart of this Prado is the 2,693cc 2TR-FE engine. While modern SUVs often use complex turbochargers to get power, this 2.7L engine is naturally aspirated and famously simple. It is widely regarded as one of Toyota’s most durable engines, frequently reaching over 300,000km with basic maintenance.

Because it lacks complex turbo systems, the long-term running costs are significantly lower than its diesel or high-tech petrol counterparts. Paired with a refined 6-speed automatic transmission, it offers a linear and quiet power delivery that is perfect for urban commuting.

​The TXL trim is the "sweet spot" for comfort. While the exterior is rugged, the interior is designed for long-distance family travel. You get a mix of durable and luxury materials, typically featuring partial leather upholstery and wood-grain accents that elevate the feel of the dashboard. Most 2018 TXL models include the center console Cool Box and dual-zone climate control, ensuring rear passengers have their own AC vents. At city speeds and idle, the 2.7L petrol engine is remarkably quiet, providing a more serene cabin environment than the noisier diesel variants.

​Despite its luxury interior, the TXL sits on a heavy-duty ladder-frame chassis, giving it genuine mountain-climbing ability. Unlike many modern crossovers that only engage 4WD when they slip, the Prado is always powering all four wheels, providing superior stability on wet or loose gravel roads. With 215mm of ground clearance and a high seating position, the car gives you immense confidence over potholes or off-road trails. The "sculpted" bonnet design of the 2018 facelift specifically helps you see the corners of the car more clearly. It enhances the features you value like traction control and parking sensors with advanced off-road aids like Downhill Assist Control (DAC), which manages braking for you on steep, slippery slopes.

​One of the Prado's strongest attributes isn't just how it drives, but how it holds its value. The spacious interior can be reconfigured easily, with the third-row seats folding flat to provide a massive luggage area for camping gear or shopping. In markets like Kenya, the 2.7L Petrol TXL is highly sought after for its reliability. It depreciates much slower than European luxury SUVs, making it a very "safe" place to put your money.

The 2018 facelift introduced more aggressive LED headlights and a vertical-bar grille, giving it a modern, prestigious look that still feels contemporary today.