
The differences between the Prado TX and TXL are as follows: In terms of body dimensions, the Prado TX has a length, width, and height of 4840mm, 1885mm, and 1890mm respectively, with a wheelbase of 2790mm; the TXL has a length, width, and height of 5010mm, 1885mm, and 1890mm respectively, with the same wheelbase of 2790mm. Regarding the spare tire mounting position, the Prado TX has an underbody-mounted spare tire, while the TXL has a rear-mounted spare tire. In terms of tire specifications, the Prado TX is equipped with 17-inch alloy wheels, whereas the TXL comes with 18-inch alloy wheels. From an exterior perspective, the Prado TX's front grille lacks chrome trim, while the TXL's front grille features additional chrome trim.

A friend once asked me about the difference between the Prado TX and TXL, and I did some research myself. The TX is the base model with simpler features like fabric seats and 17-inch wheels. The TXL is much more luxurious, with comfortable leather seats, stylish 18-inch wheels, plus a sunroof and rearview camera. The powertrain is similar—both have that reliable 3.5L engine—but the TXL’s suspension is tuned for comfort, making speed bumps less jarring. The TX suits those who frequently drive on rough terrain—it’s durable and easy to maintain. For business needs or family trips, the TXL’s multifunction steering wheel and rear independent AC come in handy. The price difference is around 20,000–30,000 RMB; it just depends on whether you think the upgrades are worth it.

A couple of days ago, I helped my cousin choose a car and specifically compared the Prado TX and TXL. The biggest differences lie in the details—the TXL comes with roof rails and chrome body strips, giving it a more refined appearance. Inside, the TXL features wood-grain trim panels and a larger infotainment screen with smartphone connectivity. The safety configurations differ significantly: the TXL includes side airbags and blind-spot monitoring as standard, while these are optional on the TX. As for off-road capability, both models come with part-time 4WD and a differential lock, handling rough terrain with ease. However, the TXL’s seats offer lumbar support adjustment, making long drives more comfortable. If it were up to me, I’d go for the TXL for frequent highway driving, while the TX is a more cost-effective choice for pure off-roading.

Those who have driven the old Prado know that the main differences between the TX and TXL lie in the comfort features. The TX has manual air conditioning and manual side mirrors, while the TXL comes with automatic versions. The audio system is particularly distinct—the TXL has 9 speakers with a subwoofer, whereas the TX only has 6 standard speakers. The trunk space is similar, but the TXL features an electric tailgate. Fuel consumption is roughly the same, around 12-13 liters, as both share the same engine and transmission. However, the TXL adds keyless entry and start, which is quite handy in the rain. When a used car, it's advisable to focus on these configurations, as the price difference often reflects them.

My friend is torn between choosing the Prado TX or TXL, and I've analyzed it for him. The TX leans more towards a utilitarian vehicle—its fabric seats can be hosed down directly when dirty, and while the mirrors lack electric heating, it's cheaper and more durable. The TXL follows a luxury route, featuring standard seat heating and steering wheel heating, which are especially practical in northern winters. There's a significant difference in lighting configurations; the TXL comes with automatic headlights and daytime running lights. Both models have a ground clearance of 215mm, but the TXL's approach angle is 2 degrees smaller, making it slightly less capable in extreme off-road conditions. Maintenance costs are actually similar, with both requiring service every 10,000 kilometers. For city commuting, the TXL offers more comfort, but if you're constantly driving to mines, the TX is undoubtedly the better fit.

When researching the Prado's configurations, it was found that the main differences between the TX and TXL lie in the technological features. The TX only has basic cruise control, while the TXL upgrades to adaptive cruise control with lane-keeping assist. In terms of the infotainment system, the TX has a monochrome small screen, whereas the TXL is equipped with an 8-inch touchscreen featuring a 360-degree surround view. The parking mechanisms also differ: the TX uses a mechanical handbrake, while the TXL has an electronic parking brake with AUTOHOLD. Both models have rain-sensing wipers, but the TXL adds a separate rear window washer function. Although the differences seem minor with just a few extra features, the adaptive cruise control significantly reduces fatigue on long drives, and the automatic parking brake makes stop-and-go traffic much easier. If you frequently drive on highways, spending a bit more for the TXL is definitely worth it.


