by GWM Tank 500: The Chinese SUV That Surprises
Chinese automakers have seriously announced themselves on international markets in recent years, especially in the SUV segment. In 2023, GWM introduced its Tank 300 off-roader in Australia, which quickly gained popularity due to its affordable price and good performance. Now the company is going further with a larger and more ambitious model — the Tank 500, which is set to compete with giants like the Ford Everest, Isuzu MU-X, and Toyota Land Cruiser Prado.
The Tank 500 offers more space, a more powerful hybrid powertrain, and an extended technology package. The starting price for the base Lux HEV version is AU$64,490 (~$41,400), while the top-tier Ultra HEV version that was tested starts from AU$72,990 (~$46,900). For comparison, the new Land Cruiser Prado in Australia starts from AU$78,552 (~$50,400).
Technical Specifications
› Model: 2025 GWM Tank 500
› Starting Price: AU$72,990 (~$46,900)
› Dimensions: 5,078 mm (length), 1,934 mm (width), 1,905 mm (height)
› Powertrain: 2.0-liter turbocharged petrol engine + electric motor
› Power: 342 hp (255 kW) / 648 Nm of torque
› 0-100 km/h acceleration: 7 seconds
› Fuel consumption: 14.1 l/100 km (based on tests)
Interior and Technology
The Tank 500’s interior impresses with its quality and equipment, especially considering the price. The Ultra HEV version features a 14.6-inch multimedia screen, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a heads-up display, massaging seats with nine levels of heating and ventilation. The car is also equipped with numerous safety systems, including automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and traffic sign recognition.
However, there are also drawbacks: an overly soft suspension, uncertain braking, and high fuel consumption. In the city and on the highway, the Tank 500 showed 14.1 l/100 km, which is significantly more than the claimed 8.5 l/100 km.
Off-Road Potential
The Tank 500 offers 11 driving modes, including special settings for sand, mud, and rocks. It has three locking differentials, making it a serious competitor for the G-Class. However, low bumpers limit the approach and departure angles.
Despite some shortcomings, the Tank 500 is a serious statement from GWM in the full-size SUV market. Its main advantages are rich equipment, an affordable price, and a seven-year warranty. A diesel version is expected in the future, which may improve efficiency.
