So I researched overlanding and the Toyota Land Cruiser and got obsessed with the Land Cruiser GXL 70 series. The problem is I live in Europe and this car was never sold here by Toyota. I could buy it, but it costs double what it does in Australia or America just because I need to pay for import and transportation. So, what other options similar to this do you guys recommend? Because I’m not prepared to pay 110k for this car. My budget is $60k. I looked into older models as well, but they’re still overpriced because they’re imported. Currently, I’m looking at the Toyota Land Cruiser 150 Prado. Would it be a viable option for overlanding? Or what models do you recommend?
Just compare the specs on the local website vs AU website and pick the appropriate model. Toyota likes to use different names for different markets. You could import from AU or America, but you end up with the steering wheel on the wrong side, depending on where in Europe you are. The reason these cars are expensive in Europe is because of the tax. Toyota pays that tax when you buy it new. Doing a parallel import will not help you avoid that tax.
Sorry, misread your question. So you’re looking for an equivalent of LC 200 GXL? Or the new 300 GXL? Or the more rugged 76 series? The Prado 150 GXL is an option and definitely suitable for overlanding - it’s just smaller than the 200/300. It is the model that is sold simply as Land Cruiser in Europe, so you’d have a good view of their size. They’re lighter but still very capable, and people take them on pretty challenging trips here in Australia. I have one myself, so I’m somewhat biased. It might be better suited for Europe as it has a 4-cylinder diesel, which is less thirsty than the 8/6-cylinder versions in the bigger cars - although it’s not great either; I’m getting roughly 10l per 100km.
I got obsessed with the Land Cruiser GXL. GXL is a trim. Which series are you after? 80/100/200/300 or 90/120/150/250? All have GXL trims. A 150 Prado is a great vehicle. It will serve you well. The 1GR petrol is thirsty but reliable. The 1KD or 1GD turbo diesel would be my pick. But you need to tell us what’s available in your country.
Before my LC79 dual cab, I had the Prado 150 and it was awesome, different but awesome. I cannot recommend enough the Prado 150; there is only one caveat: make sure it’s a diesel.
You can get them in Europe brand new.