Toyota Prado vs Land Rover Defender 2025 | SUV Comparison

The midsize SUV segment in the UAE is highly competitive, with two names generating considerable attention: the Toyota Prado and the Land Rover Defender. One represents proven reliability with off-road heritage, while the other carries modern innovation and luxury appeal. 

Here’s a head-to-head look at how these two SUVs stack up in dimensions and design and performance, and everyday usability to help you decide which one suits your needs for driving in Dubai or Abu Dhabi, or beyond. At the end, we explore the best premium tyres to elevate their performance on the UAE’s hot roads and sandy trails.

Toyota Prado vs Land Rover Defender: Dimensions Comparison

In terms of dimensions, the Prado is longer and taller, providing more space for passengers and a commanding presence on UAE highways, while its longer wheelbase ensures better stability for family trips. The Defender counters with greater width, making it more agile for urban maneuvering in Dubai. 

It also offers more trunk space at 397 liters compared to the Prado's 189 liters ideal for gear storage during desert outings. Both have similar door configurations, but the Prado's 7-seat capacity favors larger families while the Defender's 5-seat layout prioritizes cargo flexibility.

Toyota Prado vs Land Rover Defender: Engine / Motor Comparison

Both SUVs feature turbocharged petrol engines, but the Defender's 2.0L setup edges in horsepower at 300 BHP compared to the Prado's 2.4L at 267 BHP. The Prado counters with more torque at 430 Nm, making it better for towing or climbing in the UAE deserts. 

Acceleration and top speed are similar, with both hitting 100 km/h in 8 seconds, though the Defender reaches 191 km/h. Both have all-wheel or four-wheel drive systems suited for the UAE's off-road trails, but the Prado's larger displacement favors heavy-duty tasks.

Toyota Prado vs Land Rover Defender: Transmission & Drivetrain Comparison

The Prado's 8-speed AMT transmission and 4x4 drivetrain provide smooth shifts and versatile traction for UAE highways and off-road use. The Defender's automatic transmission and all-wheel drive match the Prado's capability, but its TBD gear type suggests a focus on dynamic performance. Both have differential locks for enhanced off-road stability, but the Prado's 4x4 setup is ideal for the UAE's sandy terrains.

Toyota Prado vs Land Rover Defender: Fuel Economy Comparison

Both SUVs offer similar fuel economy with city averages of 9 Km/L and highway averages of 11 Km/L, making them efficient for their size. The Prado's larger 110-liter tank provides a longer range for desert trips, while the Defender's 90-liter tank suits urban use. This balance ensures practicality for UAE drivers facing long distances between fuel stations.

Toyota Prado vs Land Rover Defender: Brakes, Steering & Suspension Comparison

The Prado's ventilated front discs and solid rear discs provide strong braking for off-road and highway use, while its electric power steering offers precise control. The McPherson strut front and multi-link rear suspension ensure a smooth ride on the UAE's varied terrains. The Defender's TBD specs suggest similar capability, but its focus on agility makes it a contender for dynamic driving.

Both SUVs feature alloy wheels for durability and style, but the Prado's 18-inch wheels with 265/65/18 tyres provide a balance of comfort and off-road traction. The Defender's TBD wheel size suggests flexibility for customization. Both include a spare tyre, ensuring reliability for the UAE's remote desert drives.

Toyota Prado vs Land Rover Defender: Exterior Comparison

The Prado and Defender both embrace boxy styling for maximum interior space and off-road capability, creating an imposing presence on UAE roads. The Prado's design is more traditional, with LED lights and alloy wheels, and body cladding emphasizing rugged reliability. The Defender's modern look with LED lights and alloy wheels, and body cladding offers a fresher aesthetic.

Both have electric tailgates and roof rails, and side steps for convenience, but the Prado's black grille contrasts with the Defender's TBD grille. Dual-tone colours are available on both, adding customization options for UAE buyers seeking style.

Toyota Prado vs Land Rover Defender: Interior Comparison

The Prado offers a spacious interior with 5 or 7 seating options and tri-zone climate control, ensuring comfort for families. Powered seats and ventilated front seats add luxury while the panoramic sunroof brightens the cabin. The Defender counters with a 5-seat layout and four-zone climate control providing personalized comfort. Both have powered front seats, but the Defender's ventilated rear seats give it an edge for passenger luxury.

The Prado's JBL audio system and 14.3-inch TFT infotainment screen offer entertainment, while the Defender's dual 14.3-inch TFT screens and 14-speaker Klipsch system provide a more immersive experience. Head-up displays are available on both, but the Defender's 50-inch display is larger. Both have power-folding third-row seats for flexibility, making them practical for UAE families.

Toyota Prado vs Land Rover Defender: Safety Comparison

Both SUVs prioritize safety with comprehensive features. The Prado has 10 airbags and traction control, and ISOFIX anchors ensuring protection for passengers. The Defender matches with 10 airbags and traction control, and ISOFIX anchors offering similar safety. Both include 360-degree cameras and off-road monitors for awareness in the UAE's diverse terrains.

Level 2 ADAS is available for semi-autonomous driving support. The Prado's brake assist and electronic brake force distribution add to its safety suite, while the Defender's autonomous emergency braking provides additional protection. Both are equipped for the UAE's highways and off-road trails, making them reliable choices for families and adventurers.

Which Premium Tyres Are Best for Toyota Prado in UAE?

Common tyre sizes include 265/65R18 and 265/70R17, and 275/55R20, depending on the trim. For on-road comfort, the Michelin Primacy SUV+ (265/65R18) is a premium tyre brand offering low noise and durability for highway cruising. The Bridgestone Dueler H/T 684 II (265/70R17) provides a smooth long long-lasting ride for urban drives. These Toyota Prado tyres ensure comfort on the UAE's hot roads. The Michelin Primacy SUV+ leads for its quietness and longevity.

For all-terrain versatility, the Goodyear Wrangler All-Terrain Adventure (275/55R20) offers strong traction for desert and city use. The Continental TerrainContact A/T (265/65R18) balances off-road grip and on-road smoothness. These tyres handle the UAE's sandy trails and urban roads perfectly for versatile drivers. The Goodyear Wrangler All-Terrain Adventure excels in its all-terrain traction.

Which Premium Tyres Are Best for Land Rover Defender in UAE?

Common tyre sizes include 255/60R20 and 265/65R18, and 275/55R20, depending on the trim. For on-road performance, the Pirelli Scorpion Verde All Season (255/60R20) is a premium tyre brand with excellent grip and high-speed stability. The Michelin Pilot Sport 4 SUV (275/55R20) offers responsive handling for dynamic driving. These Land Rover Defender tyres enhance agility on the UAE's highways and in rare wet conditions. The Pirelli Scorpion Verde All-Season leads for its high-performance grip.

For off-road capability, the Goodyear Wrangler DuraTrac (265/65R18) provides rugged traction for dune bashing. The Bridgestone Dueler A/T 001 (255/60R20) offers robust off-road grip with on-road balance. These tyres ensure the Defender conquers the UAE's desert trails near Al Wathba. The Goodyear Wrangler DuraTrac excels in its off-road durability.

Which Premium Tyres Should UAE SUV Drivers Choose?

In the Toyota Prado vs Land Rover Defender showdown, premium tyres elevate both SUVs. For the Prado Michelin Primacy SUV+ or Goodyear Wrangler All-Terrain Adventurer, ensure comfort and versatility. For the Defender Pirelli Scorpion Verde All Season or Goodyear Wrangler DuraTra,c amplify performance and off-road capability. PitStopArabia offers these car tyres with doorstep installation across the UAE. Shop now at PitStopArabia.com to upgrade your SUV!

Why Choose PitStopArabia for Your SUV Tyres in UAE?

As the UAE's leading online tyre store, PitStopArabia provides premium tyres for the Toyota Prado and Land Rover Defender, including Michelin and Bridgestone and Goodyear and Continental and Pirelli designed for the UAE's roads. With free installatio,n competitive prices and expert support we ensure your SUV delivers top performance. Shop now at PitStopArabia.com and elevate your drive!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between Prado and Defender?

The Prado offers more seating (7 vs 5) and a larger fuel tank (110L vs 90L), ideal for family practicality. The Defender is more compact (4583mm length vs 4925mm), with higher ground clearance (TBD vs 221mm) for off-road agility.

Is the Toyota Prado a good car to buy?

Yes, the Toyota Prado is a reliable choice for UAE drivers, with strong resale value, low maintenance, and versatile performance for urban and off-road use. Its 2.4L turbo engine ensures durability in extreme heat.

What is the price of Toyota Prado in UAE?

The Toyota Prado starts around AED 199,900 for the TXR 2.4T trim, depending on dealer offers and variants.

Is Toyota Prado owned by Land Rover?

No, the Toyota Prado is manufactured by Toyota Motor Corporation, while Land Rover is owned by Jaguar Land Rover (a subsidiary of Tata Motors). They are separate brands.