The Toyota Land Cruiser is undeniably a global off-road icon. From arid deserts to rainforests, its reputation is built on conquering some of the world’s most challenging terrains. But now, the legendary Land Cruiser 250 (known as the Prado in some markets) is getting a surprising makeover, courtesy of Tom’s Racing, the renowned Japanese tuner. This isn’t your grandpappy’s Land Cruiser; this is a luxury SUV, reimagined for the city streets.
Instead of focusing on conquering impossible trails, Tom’s Racing has focused on enhancing the Land Cruiser 250’s inherent elegance and presence in urban environments. Forget aggressive modifications for rock climbing or lift kits for river crossings; this is about refined sophistication and a commanding presence in premium parking lots and luxury avenues. This is a radical departure from the norm.
The key to Tom’s Racing’s approach lies in its commitment to refinement and distinction. The kit includes Bridgestone Alenza LX100 tires (size 265/60), designed for maximum comfort and low road noise, mounted on stylish 20-inch forged aluminum wheels. Side skirts, front and rear bumper extensions, and subtle aesthetic accents lower the Land Cruiser’s profile, giving it a wider, more solid stance perfect for urban environments.
But the transformation isn’t limited to the exterior. Understanding that urban drivers value comfort as much as style, Tom’s Racing has also upgraded the interior. Exclusive features include a redesigned steering wheel, custom decorative panel finishes, and a luxurious white leather upholstery scheme that extends to the seats, doors, and seatbelts. This elevates the cabin’s feel, moving away from the functional minimalism of off-road versions to create a space perfect for executives and families who value style, exclusivity, and comfort.
It’s fascinating to see a brand so deeply rooted in off-road performance like Toyota embrace such a departure from its iconic model’s core capabilities. This urban-focused Land Cruiser 250 is designed for a completely different set of scenarios than its rugged counterparts. The combination of street tires, a lower ride height, and stylish aesthetic enhancements makes this Prado a highly desirable option for those who primarily navigate urban and suburban environments. It’s less about conquering rivers and dunes and more about making a statement at a high-end restaurant or five-star hotel.
Currently, this special Tom’s Racing kit is only available in Japan, where the culture of automotive customization is deeply ingrained. However, it’s only a matter of time before other markets see similar modifications emerge, spurred by the high demand for this luxurious upgrade. The number of Prado owners who want to stand out in the city while retaining the prestige and robustness of the Land Cruiser name is considerable. This represents a significant opportunity for international markets, particularly in Latin America, where the Prado enjoys immense popularity.
Some purists might criticize this type of modification as ‘domesticating’ a vehicle born for adventure. However, the versatility of the Toyota Land Cruiser is one of its greatest strengths. The existence of more refined versions doesn’t diminish its original capabilities; it simply expands its range of possibilities to suit diverse user needs. Those who want to maintain the off-road essence can still choose more traditional versions or seek out tuners specializing in maximizing off-road performance.
While there are no changes to the engine or core mechanical capabilities, the Tom’s Racing aesthetic package does alter the driving experience in urban settings: 20-inch forged aluminum wheels (lighter than traditional steel, offering better dynamic response); Bridgestone Alenza LX100 tires (prioritizing comfort, noise reduction, and road longevity); aerodynamic side skirts and bumper kits; and a custom white leather interior. Various finish options are available to suit individual tastes, from more subdued color combinations to bolder two-tone configurations.
The exact price for the complete Tom’s Racing kit hasn’t been officially released. However, based on previous projects and the materials used, it’s estimated to cost between $7,000 and $12,000, depending on the final configuration and finishes. This is separate from the base price of the Toyota Land Cruiser 250, which in the US market starts around $55,000 for entry-level versions and can reach up to $75,000 for more fully equipped models.
