GWM’s audacious bid to establish itself as a contender in the premium SUV market brings both promise and scrutiny. After spending a week behind the wheel of the imposing Tank 500 2.0T HEV Ultra Luxury 4×4 hybrid SUV, it’s clear that the Tank 500 has strengths worth celebrating – but also areas where it still has room to grow.
Although considered an established brand in South Africa after 17 uninterrupted years here, GWM (Great Wall Motors) has recently gained significant traction with its vast (and growing) SUVs, bakkies, and crossovers. Known initially for its budget-friendly bakkies, the brand has rapidly evolved, particularly under its Haval subsidiary, to offer more refined and premium vehicles. With products like the Haval Jolion and H6 finding widespread success, GWM has proven its ability to deliver value-packed vehicles that rival more established brands.
With the introduction of the Tank 500 2.0T HEV Ultra Luxury – its first foray into the R1-million SUV segment – GWM aims to position itself as a serious contender in the premium market. Yet, the question remains whether the Tank 500 can challenge the likes of the Ford Everest Platinum and Toyota Land Cruiser Prado in terms of capability and brand cachet.
MAKING A BOLD STATEMENT
The Tank 500 is hard to miss. Measuring a massive 5,078 mm in length, this SUV surpasses many of its rivals, including the Everest and Prado. Its bold chrome grille, 20″ alloy wheels, and tailgate-mounted spare wheel lend it an authoritative presence that means you’ll rarely go unnoticed. However, that size can become a double-edged sword. Yes, it commands attention, but navigating tight parking spaces or loading and unloading in cramped areas is less glamorous.
Inside, GWM has gone all out to deliver an interior that oozes opulence. Nappa leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, and ambient lighting combine to create a cabin that wouldn’t look out of place in a vehicle twice the price. The front seats, with heating, ventilation, and an eight-point massage function, add a level of comfort that’s undeniably luxurious. Rear passengers are equally well-catered with reclining seats, dedicated climate control, and charging ports. Tech-savvy drivers (and up to six passengers) will appreciate the 14.6″ infotainment screen and 12-speaker Infinity sound system, which elevate the entertainment experience.
POWER MEETS HEFT
Powering the Tank 500 is a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine combined with an electric motor, producing a substantial 255 kW and 648 Nm. Then paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission and an 11-mode 4×4 system, it’s designed to conquer urban roads and rugged trails. Its off-road credentials are impressive, with 224 mm of ground clearance, an 800 mm wading depth, and a braked towing capacity of 2,500 kg.
On the road, the Tank 500 feels solid and composed, a testament to its ladder-frame construction and weight. That weight, however, is a double-edged sword. While it gives the vehicle a planted, stable feel, it does hamper acceleration, especially during overtaking at higher speeds. The hybrid powertrain is smooth and efficient but occasionally suffers from a slight delay in power delivery when quick responses are needed. GWM claims a fuel consumption figure of 8.5 l/100 km, but real-world results may vary, especially when fully loaded or tackling challenging unsettled geography.
COMFORT OVER AGILITY
The Tank 500 prioritises comfort over agility – its suspension setup soaking up bumps with ease, making it ideal for long-distance cruising. However, the steering lacks the directness and feedback of some of its rivals, which may disappoint those seeking a more engaging driving experience. For most drivers, the plush ride quality will be a fair trade-off.
One area where the Tank 500 truly excels is off-road. With features like hill descent control, low-range gearing, and multiple terrain modes, it confidently handles uneven roads. That said, its size can sometimes limit its manoeuvrability on narrow paths, making it better suited to open landscapes than tight trails.
TECHNOLOGY AND SAFETY
GWM has packed the Tank 500 with an extensive list of features to justify its price tag. Key highlights include adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, a 360-degree camera, and automatic parking. The head-up display is a welcome touch, providing vital information without requiring you to take your eyes off the road.
Safety is equally comprehensive, with airbags for every row, rear cross-traffic alert, and emergency braking, to name a few.
LAST WORD
The GWM Tank 500 2.0T HEV Ultra Luxury marks a significant step forward for the Chinese brand in South Africa. It offers an impressive blend of luxury, comfort, and capability, making it a serious contender in the premium SUV market. Its bold design, opulent interior, and off-road prowess are undeniable strengths. However, minor issues like its heft impacting acceleration and manoeuvrability, as well as its parking challenges, remind us that it’s not without flaws.
For buyers seeking an alternative to established rivals, the Tank 500 presents a compelling argument – especially for those who value features and space over outright agility. While it may not yet unseat the segment leaders, it certainly gives them something to think about.
Report by BERNIE HELLBERG JR | Images © GWM SOUTH AFRICA
