Our recent journey from Pretoria to Phakalane Golf Estate Hotel in Botswana was an adventure that combined scenic landscapes, cultural experiences, and the opportunity to test the GWM P500 2.0T HEV 4×4 Ultra Luxury.
When GWM introduced their larger-than-life Tank 500 HEV SUV and P500 HEV bakkie in mid-2024, the pair gained the distinction of becoming the most expensive Chinese-built products available to the local buying public.
Priced (since launch) at R999,900, the P500 HEV 4×4 Ultra Luxury (to give it its full title) boasts a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine paired with a hybrid electric motor, delivering a combined power output of 255 kW and a maximum torque of 648 Nm. The P500 is certainly impressive on paper, and its performance at the launch event in the Western Cape confirmed it to be a capable luxury cruiser. Yet, we decided to give it another run a little closer to home and embarked on a four-day adventure from Pretoria to Phakalane Golf Estate Hotel near Gaborone in Botswana.
THE JOURNEY BEGINS
We kicked off our road trip on the N4 highway, heading out of Pretoria toward the Tlokweng Border Control post, grateful to leave the heat of Gauteng behind. As the most important trade route between South Africa and Botswana, the N4 is also one of the busiest roads in the country. It also has the distinction of including the second-most expensive toll gate in the land at Swartruggens.
Although regular travellers to Botswana will likely not be thrilled at forking out R97 per journey at this gate alone, I was appreciative of the sound overall condition of the road, ensuring a smooth ride in our P500 HEV, its hybrid powertrain delivering a good balance between power and efficiency, which was a relief given the long distance ahead. The 255 kW engine had ample power for overtaking slower traffic, and the 648 Nm of torque made the drive feel effortless even at higher speeds.
However, it wasn’t perfect. One aspect of the P500 that is impossible to overlook is its sheer size. At just under five meters in length, it is longer than most rivals. This makes navigating tight spaces tricky, especially when stopping for fuel. It’s a minor inconvenience, but one that comes with the territory of driving a large vehicle like this.
TLOKWENG BORDER CONTROL
Just past Zeerust, we veered off the N4 and joined the R49 towards Botswana. With barely 100 km to go on this section of the drive, I was relieved that the road was relatively quiet, and impressed with the P500 that felt right at home here. The hybrid system, which blends petrol and electric power, ensured we ran efficiently, with good fuel consumption figures on the longer stretches.
Reaching the Tlokweng Border Control post was seamless, and the P500 HEV’s array of driver-assistance systems – including lane-keeping assist and adaptive cruise control – made the experience more relaxed. These features allowed us to cruise comfortably without constantly adjusting our speed or lane position, which was especially useful as we neared the border, where traffic can sometimes become unpredictable.
One minor issue I noticed with the adaptive cruise control system was that it didn’t quite maintain the distance I had set between my vehicle and the one ahead on a few occasions. I had to manually adjust the distance to ensure a safe gap. While this wasn’t a significant issue, it is worth mentioning for those relying on this technology for long-distance travel.
PHAKALANE GOLF ESTATE HOTEL
Reaching Phakalane Golf Estate Hotel from the Tlokweng post will take around 40 minutes through Gaborone’s primarily urban settings. The hotel is located within a sprawling 500-hectare estate, offering stunning panoramic views of its lush, well-maintained golf course and the surrounding landscapes. This peaceful setting promised to be the ideal environment for both relaxation and adventure, making it the perfect base for a multi-day stay.
The hotel boasts 80 spacious, elegantly designed rooms, each providing guests with a comfortable and modern environment. Whether you opt for a deluxe room or a suite, all rooms feature a blend of contemporary style and practical amenities. The large windows allow for plenty of natural light and offer beautiful views of the golf course or the resort’s gardens.
On the property, you’ll find a variety of amenities designed to enhance the guest experience. For those looking to unwind, there is a fully equipped fitness centre and a luxurious spa, perfect for rejuvenation after a day of travel. The on-site restaurant serves various delicious dishes, with a menu that fuses local Botswana flavours with international cuisine. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty Botswana stew or a light salad, the chefs ensure that the food is as exceptional as the surroundings.
For those looking to explore, Phakalane Golf Estate Hotel offers a range of outdoor activities, including golfing, cycling, and birdwatching. The pristine golf course is one of the resort’s highlights and a popular destination for both seasoned and beginners. It’s easy to lose time as you stroll around the estate or relax by the pool, enjoying the scenic beauty and quiet atmosphere.
EXPERIENCING BOTSWANA
During our stay at Phakalane Golf Estate, we indulged in local cuisine and enjoyed the stunning wildlife experiences nearby. Botswana’s food scene offers a rich blend of regional dishes and international flavours, and I made sure to indulge in both. From hearty stews to perfectly cooked game meat, every meal was a treat.
The real highlight, however, was our visit to the Mokolodi Game Reserve. This peaceful reserve is just a short drive from Phakalane and offers the perfect setting for a self-drive safari. Mokolodi is home to a range of animals, including rhinos, giraffes, and zebras. The GWM P500 HEV’s quiet hybrid system proved advantageous in such settings. The absence of engine noise – at game-viewing speeds – allowed us to enjoy the sights and sounds of the reserve without disturbing the wildlife. This experience added a whole new layer of serenity to the trip, as we were able to observe animals in their natural habitat without the intrusive noise of an internal combustion engine.
OFF-ROADING AT MOKOLODI GAME RESERVE
The P500’s off-road capabilities were properly tested at Mokolodi Game Reserve. The vehicle’s 224 mm ground clearance and 4×4 drivetrain were useful in handling the uneven terrain, and I was impressed by how comfortably it navigated the reserve. The vehicle performed well on the gravel roads and bumpy tracks, though its size made it a little less nimble on the narrow trails.
There were a few instances where I had to take extra care around tight corners and uneven surfaces, but the P500 handled them confidently. The P500 is clearly a competent off-roader, but smaller, more agile 4×4 vehicles might still have an edge in certain situations, particularly in densely vegetated or rocky areas.
IN-CABIN COMFORT
There is no denying that the P500 HEV is a luxury vehicle through and through. The Nappa leather seats, advanced climate control, and state-of-the-art infotainment system make for an excellent long-distance driving experience. The cabin is spacious, with plenty of legroom for front and rear passengers. And, as a first for any bakkie in South Africa, the rear seats are electrically adjustable, too.
The large touchscreen integrates seamlessly with smartphone connectivity, and the Infinity sound system provides crisp, clear audio during the journey.
Another standout feature was the 3D driver’s display, which added a high-tech touch to the driving experience. Though functional, the centre console could benefit from a more streamlined design, as there were moments when I found myself searching for the right button or menu. This minor flaw aside, the vehicle’s interior offers an excellent balance of comfort and technology, making it a pleasant place to spend long hours.
The return journey was much the same as the outward leg, with the hybrid bakkie proving to be a reliable and comfortable road trip companion. The hybrid system kept fuel consumption at reasonable levels, and the overall driving experience was pleasant.
LAST WORD
Reflecting on the trip, the GWM P500 HEV 4×4 Ultra Luxury proved to be a capable vehicle for both long journeys and off-road adventures. Its hybrid powertrain offers a good balance of power and fuel efficiency, making it a great choice for road trips. However, its size can pose challenges when parking in cramped spaces or navigating tight corners. Still, the P500 is a worthy (and luxurious) option for those who value comfort, power, and versatility.
For a memorable stay in Botswana, Phakalane Golf Estate Hotel provides a luxurious base for relaxation and adventure, while Mokolodi Game Reserve offers an unforgettable safari experience. The GWM P500 HEV, with its combination of power, comfort, and efficiency, ensures a smooth and enjoyable journey, no matter where the road leads.
Report by BERNIE HELLBERG JR | Images © GWM SOUTH AFRICA / PHAKALANE GOLF ESTATE HOTEL
