It is rare to encounter a vehicle that so consistently captures attention that one starts feeling somewhat uncomfortable after a while. But, considering that the GWM Tank 300 is bound to make the competition in the crowded SUV D-segment feel a fair amount of discomfort, too, it’s a feeling we can get used to.
With its blend of retro ruggedness and luxurious interior, the GWM Tank 300 stands out as an exceptional offering from GWM. Our recent experience with the hybrid model in Super Luxury trim (the first locally available Tank 300) was a paradigm-shifting delight. GWM has put a lot of thought into both the aesthetics and the functionality of its Fortuner-buster hopeful, making it a strong contender in this segment, and one of our favourite cars to drive this year.
SQUARED OFF
The Tank 300’s design is a striking blend of classic and contemporary elements. While it bears an unmistakable resemblance to other rugged SUVs such as the Jeep Wrangler and (some might say) Suzuki Jimny, its distinctive and individual style is a credit to the GWM design team, who have managed to seamlessly blend retro ruggedness and modern touches that add a layer of sophistication.
One of the most notable aspects of the Tank 300’s design is its ability to draw attention. The retro aesthetic, characterised by its boxy shape and aggressive front grille, is reminiscent of classic off-road vehicles but with a modern twist. Its reasonable ground clearance (224 mm) adds to its imposing look and enhances its off-road capabilities.
VELVET FIST IN AN IRON GLOVE
Stepping inside the Tank 300, one is immediately struck by the luxurious feel of the cabin. The interior is reminiscent of much more expensive SUVs, with faux black leather, diamond stitching, brushed aluminium accents, and ambient lighting, creating a sophisticated (even plush) interior.
Retro touches such as circular air vents and an analogue clock enhance its appeal, creating a unique blend of old and new.
On the new side, the 12.3” infotainment system highlights the Tank 300’s tech offerings. It is user-friendly and comes equipped with all the modern conveniences one would expect, including a digital instrument cluster and various creature comforts throughout the cabin. There is ample space in the rear seats, providing comfortable accommodation for adult passengers, while the boot space is a generous 400 litres, making it practical for everyday use and long journeys alike.
HYBRID PERFORMANCE
Under the hood, the Tank 300 HEV features a powertrain that combines a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine with an electric motor and battery pack. This hybrid setup delivers a total system output of 255 kW of power and 648 Nm of torque; all channelled through a nine-speed automatic transmission. The performance figures are impressive, especially considering the vehicle’s substantial weight of 2,256 kilograms.
That said, despite its hybrid powertrain, the hefty Tank is thirsty, too, returning as much as 12.7 l/100 km during our week-long test – quite a jump from GWM’s claimed figure of 8.4 l/100 km.
The disclaimer, however, is that the Tank is a surprisingly agile piece of tech that begs to be driven hard. No, not in a sports car kind of way, there’s too much body roll at play for that. But when encouraged, the hybrid Tank will gladly reward you with a zero to 100 km/h acceleration time in the region of 7 to 7.5 seconds (GWM doesn’t publish official times) in ideal conditions. That’s mighty fast for a car of this size.
ON THE PROWL
When you’re not chasing down Golf GTIs in the Tank, the overall driving experience is smooth and enjoyable. Its ground clearance, while not class-leading (the Isuzu Mu-X and Toyota Fortuner have more), is enough to provide a commanding view of the road, instilling confidence in various driving conditions. Steering is responsive and manageable despite the vehicle’s size, and the nine-speed automatic transmission ensures smooth and efficient gear changes across a wide power band.
Built for challenging conditions, the Tank 300 excels in off-road performance. Its torque-on-demand four-wheel-drive system with Multi-Terrain Select allows effortless navigation across rugged terrains.
We tested the Tank on a few rocky and muddy surfaces, where it demonstrated its robust build and advanced off-road capabilities. If you rarely venture off-road but want the capability to do so, the Tank may be worth considering.
FOR SAFETY’S SAKE
It’s worth noting that the Tank 300 comes equipped with a comprehensive array of safety systems, including advanced driver assistance features, multiple airbags, and robust structural integrity, all designed to keep occupants safe in various driving conditions. These safety features add to the vehicle’s appeal, making it a reliable choice for families and individuals alike.
LAST WORD
Priced at R851,950, the Tank 300 HEV Super Luxury 4×4 bridges the gap between compact SUVs such as the Suzuki Jimny, and more comfortable, urban-oriented models, including the Mitsubishi Pajero, Isuzu Mu-X, and the Toyota Fortuner. While the fuel efficiency could be improved, its blend of luxury, technology, and off-road capability makes it a compelling choice in the SUV market. The Tank 300 meets and exceeds expectations in many areas, offering a unique combination of retro charm, modern luxury, and robust performance.
Report by BERNIE HELLBERG JR | Images © GWM SOUTH AFRICA
