The Toyota LandCruiser Prado remains one of the most popular platforms for touring and off-road builds in Australia, and both the 150 Series and the newer 250 Series continue that reputation. Whether you're planning a weekend touring rig or a full off-road setup, getting the sequence of upgrades right makes a real difference to how your build comes together.
This guide walks through the key categories worth considering for a Prado build, from protection and storage through to power and performance upgrades. Browse our full Prado accessories range or read on for where to start.
Protection First
Before adding weight or gear, most experienced builders start with protection. Towing mirrors are one of the most overlooked upgrades — factory mirrors often don't give enough visibility once you're towing a van or trailer. The Clearview Next Gen towing mirrors for Prado 150 Series add heated glass, power-fold, blind spot monitoring and indicators, all built for the 2017-2023 model range.
Side steps are another early addition, both for practicality and underbody protection on rougher tracks. The TJM Modular Steel Side Steps for Prado 120 Series are a proven option for older Prados still on the road.
Storage & Interior Protection
Once the basics are covered, storage is usually next. A drawer system keeps recovery gear, tools and camping equipment organised and secure, rather than sliding around the back on every corrugation. The MSA 4x4 Double Storage Drawer System for Prado 150 Series is purpose-built for the 150's cargo area.
Interior protection matters just as much, especially for families or anyone loading muddy gear regularly. The Deep Dish Boot Liner for the 7-seat Prado J150 gives a raised edge to contain spills and mess.
Roof Racks & Load Carrying
For touring builds carrying rooftop tents, awnings or extra recovery gear, a roof rack is one of the highest-value upgrades. If you're running a 250 Series, both the Front Runner SlimSport Roof Rack Kit for Prado 250 and the SlimSport Roof Rack Kit, Lightbar Ready are built to handle real touring loads while staying compatible with lightbar mounting for night driving.
Power & Performance
Longer touring trips and heavier loads put more strain on both the transmission and the engine's tuning. The Direction-Plus TransChill Transmission Cooler Kit helps manage transmission temperatures under load, particularly useful when towing in warmer conditions.
For Prado owners running the 2.8L Gen 3 diesel, the Torqit Power Module is a common upgrade for improving throttle response and towing performance without permanently altering factory tuning.
Get expert advice on sequencing your Prado build the right way.
Planning Your Build
The most common mistake with any 4WD build is tackling upgrades in the wrong order. Protection and storage generally come first, since they're foundational to how the vehicle is used day to day. Roof racks and power upgrades tend to follow once you know what kind of touring or towing the vehicle will actually be doing.
If you're unsure where to start, or want a build sequenced around your specific Prado (120, 150 or 250 Series), browse our full Prado accessories collection or get in touch with our team for tailored advice.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I upgrade first on a Prado build?
Most builders start with protection (towing mirrors, side steps) and storage (drawer systems, boot liners) before moving on to roof racks and power upgrades. This keeps the vehicle practical from day one while you plan further additions.
Do I need a roof rack for touring in a Prado?
Not always, but if you're carrying a rooftop tent, awning, or extra recovery gear, a roof rack significantly increases what you can carry without compromising interior space.
Will a power module void my Prado's warranty?
Power modules like the Torqit unit are generally designed to be non-invasive and removable, but warranty impact can vary by vehicle age and dealership. It's worth confirming directly with us or your dealer before fitting.
Is a transmission cooler necessary for towing?
If you're regularly towing, especially in hot weather or hilly terrain, a transmission cooler helps manage heat build-up and can extend the life of your transmission under sustained load.
Can I fit 250 Series roof racks to an older Prado?
No, roof rack kits are model-specific. The SlimSport kits listed here are built for the 250 Series (2024-current) and won't fit the 120 or 150 Series, which require their own compatible roof rack systems.
