When Toyota’s iconic Land Cruiser Prado squares off against GWM’s ambitious Tank 500 in this on-paper test, it’s a clash of old-school grit and new-age luxury. With decades of heritage behind the Prado and cutting-edge tech propelling the Tank 500, this battle pits rugged reliability against high-tech sophistication.
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The Toyota Land Cruiser Prado and the GWM Tank 500 HEV represent two distinct approaches to the large, luxury off-road SUV segment. Both vehicles are new entrants in their latest iterations, offering a blend of off-road capability, comfort, and cutting-edge technology.
In this comparison, we’ll explore their exterior designs, interior differences, powertrains, 4×4 systems, service/maintenance plans, and warranties, and ultimately determining which SUV could the better choice for South African buyers.
Exterior Designs
The Toyota Land Cruiser Prado stays true to its heritage, blending a classic boxy silhouette with modern elements. Its design along with a long bonnet, upright windscreen, and flared wheel arches speak to its off-road prowess. The design is practical, with raised headlights to avoid damage, a bonnet designed for better visibility, and, says Toyota, functional parts grouped for easier repairs.
Related: Review: Toyota Land Cruiser Prado 2.8GD VX-R
The styling cues heavily reference older Land Cruiser models like the 40, 60, and 70 Series, giving it a timeless and rugged appearance. Measuring 4 925 mm in length, the design prioritises functionality over luxury aesthetics.
In contrast, the GWM Tank 500 leans into luxury, with a bolder and more premium design. The Tank 500 features a large, chrome-heavy front grille, 20-inch alloy wheels, and automatic side steps. It also sports a panoramic sunroof that adds a touch of opulence, making it feel more like a high-end city SUV. The exterior design emphasises a blend of luxury and off-road capability, making it visually striking for those looking for something that stands out on the road.
Interior Differences
Inside, the Land Cruiser Prado offers a functional, no-nonsense design focused on off-road practicality. The interior is well-built, durable, and features a mix of high-quality materials and digital technology, with a customisable digital instrument display and a multimedia package accessible via an 8 or 12.3-inch touchscreen. The seating arrangement is versatile, offering seven seats with ample cargo space even with all rows in use. Practicality remains at the core, with the focus on driver visibility and intuitive controls that cater to off-road enthusiasts.
Related: GWM P500 Bakkie & Tank 500 in SA – What to Expect
The GWM Tank 500, on the other hand, takes interior luxury to another level. Its cabin is dominated by a 14.6-inch touchscreen, offering both physical buttons and touch controls for various functions like air conditioning and drive mode selection. The Tank 500’s seats are clad in Nappa leather with heating, ventilation, and even an 8-point massage function for front passengers. Second-row passengers also enjoy premium treatment, with reclining seats, climate control, and ample legroom. The third row is similarly comfortable, with its own aircon vents and electronic folding capabilities. The interior ambiance is further enhanced by ambient lighting, a star-lit dashboard panel, and a premium sound system.
Powertrains
Under the hood, the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado is equipped with a 2.8-litre turbo-diesel engine that delivers 150 kW of power and 500 N.m of torque. This engine, mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission, provides solid performance for off-roading and towing. It also ensures the Prado’s renowned reliability and durability in harsh environments, making it a robust choice for long expeditions and rugged conditions.
Related: GWM Tank 500 Becomes Actual Tank with Bulletproof Treatment
The GWM Tank 500 HEV, however, offers more power and torque, thanks to its 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine combined with electric driving technology. The hybrid setup delivers an impressive 255 kW of power and 648 N.m of torque, propelling the Tank 500 from 0-100 km/h in just 8.3 seconds. Paired with a 9-speed automatic gearbox and 11 different driving modes, the Tank 500 promises a more dynamic and versatile driving experience.
4×4 Systems
The Land Cruiser Prado is built on Toyota’s GA-F platform, featuring a robust 4×4 system that includes Multi-Terrain Select, Crawl Control, and a locking differential. Toyota has long been revered for its off-road systems, and the Prado stays true to this legacy. It is designed to handle the toughest environments with ease, whether it’s sand, mud, or rocky trails.
The GWM Tank 500 also boasts off-road credentials, featuring 11 all-terrain driving modes, including snow, sand, and mud. Combined with its hybrid powertrain, the Tank 500 offers capable off-road performance while also delivering the sophistication of a luxury SUV.
Service Plans and Warranties
Toyota has a long-standing reputation for offering strong aftersales support in South Africa. The Land Cruiser Prado typically comes with a 3-year/100 000 km warranty and a 9-service/90 000 km service plan. Toyota’s widespread service network across the country also ensures ease of maintenance.
- Land-Cruiser-Prado 2.8 GD TX – R1 296 300
- Land-Cruiser-Prado 2.8 GD VX-R – R1 448 900
- Land-Cruiser-Prado 2.8 GD VX-R First Edition – R1 462 400
GWM’s Tank 500, as a newer brand in South Africa, aims to offer competitive service and warranty packages. The Tank 500 comes with a 5-year/100 000 km warranty and a 5-year/60 000 km service plan. GWM has been working to improve its service network and reputation in South Africa, but it may still not match Toyota’s extensive reach and long-term reliability.
- GWM Tank 500 2.0T HEV Ultra Luxury 4×4: R1 222 900
Best Choice for SA Buyers?
For buyers seeking a rugged, no-nonsense off-road SUV with a proven track record of durability, the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado remains a solid choice. Its legacy of reliability, backed by Toyota’s extensive service network, makes it ideal for long-term ownership, particularly for those who prioritize functionality over luxury.
However, for those who want a blend of luxury and off-road capability, the GWM Tank 500 offers more power, a more luxurious interior, and modern hybrid technology. It provides strong value for money, especially for buyers who are looking for an SUV that can perform both in the city and off the beaten track while offering high levels of comfort.
Ultimately, the decision boils down to priorities. For pure off-road capability and long-term dependability, the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado is the better choice. If luxury, performance, and technology are your main considerations, the GWM Tank 500 offers an attractive alternative.
