GXL or VX, which to buy, please help.

[The Alberto Member Find all posts View Profile Close The Alberto]

Can someone please confirm if this is true?
VSC, EB things are standard but not Downhill/Hill assist. They are only available on VX and kakadu.

Pathfinder ST-L has got the feature yet it's 10k cheaper than the Prado GXL

Are you thinking about the "Crawl Control"? This is not available on GX or GXL, it is standard equipment on the Kakadu and I can't remember if it is even an option on the VX? (Someone will help me out here)

The KDSS is also not available on GX or GXL but Standard on VX and Kakadu.

[mjrandom Out of control poster! Find all posts View Profile Close mjrandom]

No crawl or multi terrain on VX just the Kakadu. Like Alberto I checked out the VX and GXL because I really wanted KDSS but it was about $15k more for the VX. Money wasn't a concern other than I didn't think the VX was worth that sort of premium over the GXL. More adjustments on the driver's seat and KDSS were the only real positives. The rest of the fruit didn't do much for me or the wife. I also was going to go to 17s so I could run more sidewall legally.

If you can find a 2012 Kakadu in stock you will most likely be offered a great deal that would be the same sort of numbers as a VX (I was) but the Kakadu comes with more stuff I don't want and the airbag rear end. I have enough trouble with a gaseous arse and wasn't interested in compounding that!

[hwang_edward Junior Member Find all posts View Profile Close hwang_edward]

Well I've got the buttons so it must be true

Haha. Thanks for the confirmation. On the toyota web site the HDC thing is shown in VX not in GXL.
The fact convinces me more to stick with GXL and use the cash to buy other accessories.

I'll get a GXL Prado early March (2013 built).

As someone posted how much it cost to lift 2 inch up?

Do I change the suspension part? I read the stock suspension is good enough for moderate 4wding.

[The Alberto Member Find all posts View Profile Close The Alberto]

H_E,

There are heaps of suspension threads to have a look at do a search and have a read.

But to answer the question, you will lift it 2" on average for between $1,400 and $2,000 depending on which components you get. I had TJM install XGS gold for $1,500 fitted. A lift kit includes all new coils, struts and rear shocks - You will also need a fresh wheel alignment after fitting. There are other things you can do but this is the basics. The OEM suspension can be OK offroad (depends what you are doing), but you are limited for clearance, you will be surprised what a difference 2" of height makes offroad. Aftermarket suspension is also just so much better in so many areas, on and offroad.

You need to work out if you are putting a bullbar, winch, dual batts etc on the car BEFORE looking at the suspension as there are generally 2 or 3 different constant load springs for the front. Likewise with the rears, are you fitting drawers, towing etc. Not really just as easy as whacking in new springs.

[vichel Junior Member Find all posts View Profile Close vichel]

I drove the VX and it was brilliant, however I did NOT want the leather or the 18" wheels more - plus the extra fancy bits inside I can live with or without.

Thanks T.A.

Apart from the other not needed VX stuff, what was your reason for not wanting the 18"wheels though?

Vic

[jayden82 Junior Member Find all posts View Profile Close jayden82]

Hey Mate,

The only extras off the VX I would like on the GXL is KDSS as an option and HID headlights.

Totally agree Alberto!

[hwang_edward Junior Member Find all posts View Profile Close hwang_edward]

H_E,

There are heaps of suspension threads to have a look at do a search and have a read.

But to answer the question, you will lift it 2" on average for between $1,400 and $2,000 depending on which components you get. I had TJM install XGS gold for $1,500 fitted. A lift kit includes all new coils, struts and rear shocks - You will also need a fresh wheel alignment after fitting. There are other things you can do but this is the basics. The OEM suspension can be OK offroad (depends what you are doing), but you are limited for clearance, you will be surprised what a difference 2" of height makes offroad. Aftermarket suspension is also just so much better in so many areas, on and offroad.

.

Thanks T_A for the info. Just wondering if the modification of the suspension causes the insurance price high?
I thought 2 inch appears small increase but the insurer may view it's the maximum we can lift?

[Jeffers Advanced Member Find all posts View Profile Close Jeffers]

Thanks T_A for the info. Just wondering if the modification of the suspension causes the insurance price high?
I thought 2 inch appears small increase but the insurer may view it's the maximum we can lift?

Definitely check with your insurer to see if they will insure your vehicle with a lift. One of my previous insurers would not, hence I now have a new insurer

Cheers,

Jeff

[The Alberto Member Find all posts View Profile Close The Alberto]

Thanks T_A for the info. Just wondering if the modification of the suspension causes the insurance price high?
I thought 2 inch appears small increase but the insurer may view it's the maximum we can lift?

I am in Insurance and have been since '96. Unfortunately I have not done basic general stuff for a long time (car and House etc). However, from what I have seen, generally most mainstream insurers will cover you if the vehicle is legal in your state. Therefore, most should cover the vehicle with a 50mm lift. If they do cover it there is generally no extra premium, just a note on the policy that the vehicle has certain modifications and accessories fitted. Best advice is like Jeffers said, give them a call and ask them. Don't just do it and not tell them, that is asking for trouble. Also check with them that you are covered for offroad activities. Again, most insurers will cover damage caused on a gazetted road - this includes the Tele Track in FNQ and beaches like Fraser Island etc. However, some insurers won't cover damage caused offroad and at places like Scenic Rim, Landcruiser Mountain park etc. Best thing to do is ask and shop around if you are not happy with the response. There are also plenty of insurers in OZ that specialize in modified vehicles, but these are generally only required if the mods are a bit out of the ordinary.

IMO the best thing you can do is employ the services of a good insurance broker .............. but then, I am biased.

Hope this helps.