
The meaning of the Prado GXR is: The Prado GXR is configured as the mid-range model in Dubai, with GX representing the standard configuration and R indicating the enhanced version. The Prado GXR is equipped with a 4.0L V6 naturally aspirated engine, paired with a five-speed automatic transmission, delivering a maximum power of 183 kW, a maximum horsepower of 275, and a maximum torque of 381 Nm. The front face of the Prado GXR features a large-sized thick-bar grille paired with a large front bumper, with black ordinary pedals that are not connected to the body. The rear bumper of the body has a small chrome strip, and the exhaust tail also adopts a chrome design, along with original welcome lights.

I drove a Land Cruiser Prado GXR in the Middle East for several years, which is the mid-to-high trim version of the Prado. I initially chose it over the base TX model because it came with leather seats, a power sunroof, and a rearview camera, plus the knee airbags provided better safety on long drives. It was equipped with a 2.7L engine and full-time 4WD, and when stuck in the desert, engaging the center differential lock would get me out. However, the fuel consumption was quite high, around 14L in the city, even more than the Land Cruiser LC200. The newer models have switched to part-time 4WD, but in the market, the 2015 GXR holds its value exceptionally well, still fetching around 70% of its original price after five years.

Last time I rented a Prado GXR for a self-drive trip in Tibet, and it was really different compared to the TX version. It came with cruise control and automatic air conditioning, and even after nine hours on winding mountain roads, my back didn't ache. The chassis was equipped with anti-roll bars, allowing us to easily cross streams and muddy flats. The rear seats could be folded flat into a double bed, saving us the cost of a tent during camping. The only downside was the expensive parts—replacing a fog lamp cost over 800 yuan—but Toyota's reliability was solid, with no issues throughout the trip. Nowadays, many hardcore off-roaders come with electronic differential locks, but the GXR's mechanical lock feels even more dependable.

Helped a friend pick out a used GXR and found its configuration quite practical. It comes with seven airbags and a vehicle stability system, offering noticeably better grip on rainy mountain roads compared to lower trims. The 18-inch wheels look sharp, and the interior features additional wood trim panels. The downside is the lack of rear independent air conditioning, so kids in the back seat often complain about the heat in summer. The trunk can fit five cases of mineral water, making it ideal for us fishing enthusiasts. Last year, when he resold it, it fetched 20,000 yuan more than a TX with similar mileage.

After driving the old GXR for over a decade, here's my real experience. It weighs 2 tons but the steering is surprisingly light, even my wife can handle it with ease. The center armrest box is enormous, capable of holding eight bottles of mineral water. On the highway, 110 km/h is the most fuel-efficient speed—exceeding that causes a sharp increase in fuel consumption. The most annoying part is the expensive , with minor services starting at 1,200 RMB. However, the engine has gone 300,000 kilometers without major repairs. The new Prado has downgraded to part-time four-wheel drive, making used GXRs even more sought after.

When researching off-road vehicles, I found the GXR version to be very smartly positioned. It's 80,000 cheaper than the top-tier VX, but retains the rear differential lock and crawl control. I've seen fellow off-roaders use its low-range four-wheel drive to climb sand dunes in the Alxa Desert, where the electronic traction control intervenes particularly promptly. It comes with a built-in fridge and four-wheel drive status display, though the audio system is just average. With 31cm of ground clearance and a set of AT tires, it can handle most unpaved roads with ease - truly great value for money.


