Why Toyota Is Skipping GR Sport Version of New Prado

New Prado

Toyota fans hoping to see a tougher, sportier LandCruiser Prado GR Sport will need to stay patient.

Toyota has officially indicated that a GR Sport version of the new 250 Series Prado is not on the cards at this stage, despite the badge being rolled out across a wide range of Toyota models worldwide.

When asked about the possibility, Toyota’s local representatives made it clear that there are no current plans to introduce a GR Sport Prado.

This decision stands out, especially considering how aggressively Toyota has expanded its Gazoo Racing (GR) Sport lineup in recent years.

Why the Prado Misses Out (For Now)

The absence of a GR Sport Prado is surprising because the SUV plays a major role in Toyota’s global sales strategy.

In markets like Australia, the Prado consistently ranks among the brand’s top-selling vehicles, trailing only heavyweights such as the RAV4 and HiLux.

Interestingly, Toyota already offers GR Sport variants on models like the Yaris Cross, Corolla Cross, and C-HR, while more hardcore off-roaders are also getting the GR treatment.

A GR Sport version of the next-generation RAV4 has been confirmed, and Toyota has already announced the first-ever LandCruiser 300 Series GR Sport Hybrid, set to become the new flagship of the iconic lineup.

So, why not the Prado? One key factor is that no overseas market currently offers a Prado GR Sport, including the United States, where the Prado is sold simply as the LandCruiser. Without a global version to build upon, Toyota appears reluctant to create a market-specific variant.

GR Brand Strategy Is Evolving

Toyota’s long-term strategy gives some clues about what could happen next. At the 2025 Japan Mobility Show, the company revealed a major global restructure, placing Gazoo Racing as one of its five core brands.

This signals an even stronger focus on performance, motorsport-inspired design, and enthusiast-driven models.

The unveiling of the GR GT supercar concept, along with a planned road-going version and a GT3 race car, further reinforces Toyota’s performance ambitions.

Meanwhile, full GR models like the GR86 and GR Supra continue to sit at the top of the hierarchy, with GR Sport variants offering a visual and handling upgrade for mainstream vehicles.

Could a Prado GR Sport Still Happen?

While Toyota has ruled it out “for now,” the story may not be over. With the GR Sport badge expanding rapidly and off-road performance becoming a major selling point globally, a Prado GR Sport could still emerge in the future—especially if customer demand grows.