Details firm on GWM’s Tank 500 SUV

GREAT Wall Motors (GWM) has unveiled its Tank 500 SUV at the Chengdu Auto Show, a Toyota Prado-sized off-roader that is the second production model from the Chinese brand and features a rugged body-on-frame chassis common to GWM utes.

Australia is under consideration for the model – in addition to the smaller Tank 300 – with Australian GWM Haval spokesperson Steve McIver saying the Tank brand “remains under consideration for Australia, however it’s too early to talk about specific models”.

Teased in recent weeks as the Tank X, the 500 features 18-inch wheels as standard across the range, with all-coil suspension providing 224mm of ground clearance.

The Tank 500 offers a water fording depth of 800mm, putting in on par with the more capable dual-cab utility and 4x4 models sold in Australia.

With off-road credentials, the Tank 500 boasts approach and departure angles of 29.6 and 24.0 degrees respectively. The break-over angle is listed at 22.0 degrees.

An electromagnetic coupling on the front axle can be engaged for part-time four-wheel drive while all models feature a rear diff lock as standard. A front diff lock is optional, says GWM, as is an electronic 4WD selector offering up to 11 off-roading modes.

Power for the Tank 500 comes from a new 3.0-litre twin-turbo petrol V6 with 48-volt mild-hybrid assistance, claimed to develop 260kW/500Nm and transmitted via a nine-speed automatic.

Torque is switchable between different wheels within 50 milliseconds and switching between 4x2 and 4x4 modes can be done on the fly at speeds of up to 80km/h, says GWM.

Measuring 4,878mm in length – or 5,070mm with the optional tailgate-mounted spare wheel – 1,934mm wide and 1,905mm high the Tank 500 rides on a 2,850mm wheelbase, placing is squarely between the Toyota LandCruiser Prado and LandCruiser 300 Series in terms of overall size.

Inside, the Tank 500 features high levels of tech including a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a 14.6-inch central display, and a smaller display for rear-seat occupants.

The large SUV is available with natural or faux leather upholstery, faux wood inlays, a crystal gear shifter, high-end Yanfei Lishi sound system and a variety of colour options.

Multiple paint and two-tone colour schemes are available externally, as are power-operated side steps, and either a top-hinged or side-hinged tailgate – a la LandCruiser Prado.

The GWM Tank 500 is expected to go on sale in its home market before the end of the year.