About the 2007 Update

As per all manufacturers Toyota has updated the Prado but this year's update is much more far reaching than the last which was in late 2004.  Considering issues including model life span and history, resale values, pricing in light of fuel prices it still significant.

This commentary ignores the alignment of the 6 speed manual and 5 speed automatic gearbox with either diesel or petrol engines.

Cosmetic changes on the GX model is most obvious, now looking very much like the GXL model except missing alloy wheels and fog lights.  Yes, color coded body cladding is now standard along with side steps.

Equipment upgrades on the GX don't extend as far with GXL type equipment offered as option packs.  At least they are offered as options.  The missing stuff includes cruise control, leather steering and gear knobs, ABS brakes, EBD and Brake assist, 6 speaker stereo and so forth.

The GX being the fleet buyers choice still has the basics but in all honestly not as good value as the GXL.

The GXL model which is the best seller in the range also has a few additions.  The most obvious is the window tinting on all windows except for the driver and roof rails.  Unfortunately not much else is added. 

For the price about $8,000 higher than the GX the GXL with the additional standard safety equipment is priceless hence the recommended model to buy if you can afford the price difference.

The VX model does not appear to have any cosmetic changes from its initial release in late 2004.

However the VX model has being given considerable boost in the equipment stakes with very little increase in price.  It now has the full compliment of DAT features namely, Traction control, High assist and so forth.  As a bonus, side airbags, leather everywhere and the usual fake wood trim, electric seat and so forth.

In fact there are very few significant features missing compared to the range topper Grande.  Eg, sunroof and GPS navigation, air suspension and Lexus style instruments.

The VX was clearly the poorest seller in the range as it only had minimal equipment boost over the GXL.  They have rectified it this time so looks much better value for money.  Pity the poor buyer of the first lot of VXs!

Nonetheless it costs at least $13,000 more than the GXL which is quite a big jump, however it seems almost worth the price difference.

Very little has changed on the Grande model, which is not surprising since its probably the second most purchased version.  Along with the additional airbags and revised Lexus style panel that's it.  It only has a few big ticket equipment additions over the VX eg. GPS, height adjustable suspension and GPS.

With a $7000 price difference again it seems worth it, if you ask for additional stuff like bullbars etc... at no extra cost.

Viewed from the GXL prospective, the $20,000 difference to the Grande doesn't seem worth it. However a $15,000 gap would make it very appealing indeed.  Likewise a gap of $7000 between the GXL and VX would be very tempting indeed!