GWM Tank 500 arrives Down Under in May

GWM has confirmed the arrival of its Tank 500 for the Australian market in the second quarter of this year, pricing the two-variant large SUV range from $66,490 drive-away.

Due in showrooms by May, the GWM Tank 500 seven-seat SUV is dimensionally larger than the current generation Toyota LandCruiser Prado (from $62,830 before on-road costs) with which it will compete until the new 250 Series Prado arrives in the third quarter.

GWM will offer two variants from launch – the base-grade Lux and higher-trimmed Ultra – with pricing and specifications for the latter still to be confirmed.

The Tank 500 range is powered exclusively by a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine with hybrid assistance, the combination providing 255kW and 648Nm to all four wheels via a nine-speed automatic transmission. Fuel economy is listed at 8.5 litres per 100km.

For comparison, the Prado’s 2.8-litre turbo-diesel engine develops 150kW and 500Nm and consumes 7.9L/100km on the combined cycle.

Eleven drive modes are available, including the typical 2H, 4H, and 4L benchmarks.

Braked towing capacity matches the Prado at 3000kg while ground clearance is 224mm (5mm more than Prado) and GWM’s claimed wading depth of 800mm is 100mm more than Toyota permits for the Prado.

Off-road geometry is not far off that of the Prado at 30.0 degrees approach, 22.5 degrees ramp over, and 24.0 degrees departure. Bash plates and a rear diff lock are included as standard.

As standard, the Lux version of the GWM Tank 500 will arrive with 18-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, a sunroof, power seat adjustment (driver), heated front seats, leatherette upholstery, a 360-degree camera system with see-through chassis view, tri-zone climate control, and dual 14.6- and 12.3-inch infotainment and instrumentation displays.

Wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto connectivity is fitted as standard.

The Tank 500 will be offered in four paint colours – Crystal Black, Dune Gold, Marble White and Onyx Silver – with black upholstery on Lux grades. The high-spec Ultra will feature a dual-tone blue and cream option. Metallic paint is a $595 option.

On the safety front, the Tank 500 is fitted with auto parking assistance, seven airbags, front and rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning, lane keep assistance, lane centring control, emergency lane keep, forward collision assistance and AEB (with pedestrian and cyclist detection), traffic sign recognition, and adaptive cruise control.

“For the savvy customers looking for the ultimate four-wheel drive, seven-seat large SUV, GWM is excited to introduce the all-new body-on-frame Tank 500 to the Australian market,” the importer said in a statement.

“This top-of-the-range SUV sets a new benchmark in the segment, offering unparalleled hybrid performance, off-road capability, state-of-the-art technology, and a unique blend of power, luxury, and ruggedness.

“The Tank 500 is a true powerhouse, boasting a robust hybrid drivetrain that delivers strong efficiency and dynamic performance. With advanced safety features and a variety of convenience features such as auto reverse assist, it delivers an unmatched driving experience.”

2024 GWM Tank 500 pricing*:

*National drive-away price.