3 Minutes
Prado gets a wild off-road makeover
The new-generation Toyota Land Cruiser Prado already made a strong comeback — selling more than 44,000 units in its first full year on the U.S. market — but some owners want something louder, tougher, and more trail-focused. That’s where aftermarket shops step in. In Hawaii, MJ Motorsports took a yellow Prado and transformed it into a full-blown off-road monster built to stand toe-to-toe with the likes of the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon and Ford Bronco.
Why owners are customizing the Prado
Toyota’s cautious option strategy left some buyers wanting. While the closely related 4Runner is offered in a dozen trim and powertrain combinations, the Land Cruiser Prado launched with only two trims — a simple base “1958” with round headlights and a higher, more conservative Land Cruiser specification. Many buyers who crave serious off-road capability turn to custom shops to add the hardware OEMs didn’t provide.
What MJ Motorsports did
The conversion focuses on capability and presence. Key upgrades include a suspension lift kit, new Vossen alloy wheels, massive all-terrain/off-road tires and heavy-duty shocks. Cosmetic and functional mods complete the package: a roof rack and awning for overlanding, multiple LED light bars for night trail use, and smoked head- and taillight lenses for an aggressive look.
Highlights:
- Lift kit and upgraded suspension for improved ground clearance
- Vossen wheels paired with giant off-road tires
- Roof rack, awning and overland-ready accessories
- Extra LED lighting and smoked lights for a stealthy appearance
Performance and positioning
On the trail, this Prado now has the stance and capability to challenge serious competitors like the Bronco Raptor and Wrangler Rubicon. While factory-built performance models still have advantages in bespoke engineering and warranty-backed components, a well-executed aftermarket build can close the gap and offer tailored capability for overlanding, rock crawling, or desert runs.
Whether this wave of custom builds will prompt Toyota to introduce an OEM off-road package for the Prado remains to be seen. The popularity of conversions like this one makes a strong case for a factory-backed trail or TRD-style kit in future markets.
For fans of off-road vehicles, the Prado conversion by MJ Motorsports is a reminder that modern SUVs can be both refined daily drivers and uncompromising off-road machines with the right upgrades.
Leave a Comment