GWM Tank 500 vs Lexus GX vs Land Rover Defender: Which one has the lowest running costs?
If you find yourself in the position of looking at a luxury off-road capable SUV, the thought of running costs may not be top of mind, but over time, those costs can accumulate, and you may be surprised by how much.
The luxury 4x4 and SUV market in South Africa is currently defined by a fascinating tug-of-war between traditional prestige brands and a massive wave of high-tech, high-value challengers from China. As of early 2026, the market has shifted from pure status symbols to rugged capability and advanced hybrid technology.
Related: GWM Tank 500 pricing versus Hyundai Palisade
When considering a vehicle in this segment, the long-term ownership costs may not be relevant to a buyer, but as tastes change and more savvy consumers enter the segment, running costs do become a factor.
Lexus GX550 (2025) First Drive Review
Fuel Consumption
The Tank 500 wins on paper, but the Defender's diesel engine is often more efficient in real-world, heavy use.
| Vehicle | Engine Type | Claimed Fuel Economy | Realistic Range |
| GWM Tank 500 | 2.0T Petrol Hybrid | 8.5 L/100km | ~940 km |
| Land Rover Defender | D250/D300 Diesel | 8.3 L/100km | ~1,000 km+ |
| Lexus GX 550 | 3.4L V6 Twin-Turbo | 12.3 L/100km | ~650 km |
Winner: Land Rover Defender (Diesel) for long-distance cruising.
Loser: Lexus GX 550. Its V6 is thirsty; real-world urban figures often climb to 15 L/100km, making it the most expensive to fuel daily.
Maintenance and Service Plans
Lexus and Land Rover offer Maintenance Plans, which cover wear-and-tear items like brake pads, whereas GWM offers a Service Plan, which usually only covers scheduled fluid and filter changes.
GWM Tank 500: Includes a 7-year/75,000 km service plan and an impressive 7-year/200,000 km warranty. While the service plan is shorter in distance, the warranty provides massive long-term protection against mechanical failure.
Lexus GX 550: Comes with a 7-year/100,000 km maintenance plan. Lexus has the best reputation for reliability, meaning you are less likely to face "hidden" costs once the plan expires.
Land Rover Defender: Typically features a 5-year/100,000 km maintenance plan. While comprehensive, Land Rovers are historically more expensive to maintain out of warranty.
Estimated Monthly Costs
Assuming a 10% deposit over 60 months, the lower entry price of the Tank 500 makes a massive difference in your monthly budget.
| Cost Factor | GWM Tank 500 | Lexus GX 550 | LR Defender 110 (D250) |
| Purchase Price | ~R1,230,000 | ~R1,800,000 | ~R1,700,000+ |
| Monthly Installment | ~R22,500 | ~R33,000 | ~R31,000 |
| Insurance (Est.) | ~R2,500 | ~R3,800 | ~R4,000 |
| Monthly Fuel | ~R3,500 | ~R5,500 | ~R3,800 |
| Total Est. Monthly | ~R28,500 | ~R42,300 | ~R38,800 |
Verdict
In South Africa, the GWM Tank 500 generally offers the lowest running costs of the three, primarily due to its hybrid powertrain and significantly lower purchase price, which reduces monthly financing and insurance premiums.
Lowest Overall Monthly Cost: GWM Tank 500. You save over R10,000 per month in total ownership costs compared to the others. Its 7-year warranty is the best in this group for peace of mind.
Best Long-Term Value: Lexus GX 550. While it has the highest fuel bill, its resale value in South Africa is likely to be much higher than the GWM, and its reliability is legendary.
Best for High Mileage: Land Rover Defender (Diesel). If you are doing 30,000 km+ per year, the diesel efficiency and the comprehensive 100,000 km maintenance plan make it a strong contender.
