The GWM Tank 500 3.0TD: A Game-Changer in the Making?
The automotive world is abuzz with the upcoming release of the GWM Tank 500 3.0TD, a significant shift in the off-road SUV market. Until now, the Tank 500 has been available only with hybrid powertrains, which, while decent, didn't quite fit the bill for a segment dominated by diesel powerhouses like the Ford Everest, Toyota Prado, and Isuzu MU-X.
A Diesel Engine to Rival the Big Players
GWM has taken a bold step by developing an all-new 3.0-liter four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine, and Australia gets the first taste. This is no mere modification of their existing 2.4-liter engine; it's an entirely new creation, delivering an impressive 170kW of power and a staggering 620Nm of torque. This torque figure is what catches the eye, surpassing the Everest's 600Nm and the Prado's 500Nm. What's more, GWM has cleverly engineered the torque curve to peak earlier and remain flat from 1400rpm to 2400rpm, providing a broad and usable power band.
AdBlue-Free: A Temporary Advantage
Another advantage, albeit temporary, is the absence of AdBlue. The Tank 500 doesn't require this additive, unlike its competitors, due to GWM's hybrid and plug-in hybrid offerings already meeting emissions standards. This simplifies ownership, but it's a benefit that may not last as emissions regulations tighten.
Fuel Efficiency and Range
The Tank 500 boasts a claimed fuel consumption of 7.1L/100km, and with a 78-liter main tank and an optional 53-liter auxiliary tank, it offers an astonishing touring range of nearly 1850km. This is a significant advantage for those venturing into remote areas, though real-world consumption, especially when towing, will be higher.
Performance and Handling
In a brief test drive, the Tank 500 impressed with its refinement, particularly in terms of noise levels, which were notably lower than a HiLux and comparable to the V6 diesel in the Ranger and Everest. The transmission is well-suited, and the engine delivers its power smoothly. However, its acceleration was surprisingly slower than a V6 Everest, possibly due to its higher mass. The real test will come when the vehicle is fully loaded or towing its maximum capacity of 3500kg.
A Ride Quality Like No Other
The standout feature is undoubtedly the ride quality. Developed in Australia, the suspension and steering tune is a vast improvement over the current Tank 500. It strikes a perfect balance on the highway, avoiding the common pitfalls of Chinese-developed cars that tend to be either too floaty or overly firm. On gravel, it excels, maintaining composure over rough terrain, ensuring the vehicle stays true to its course, even in challenging conditions.
Infotainment Upgrade
The interior benefits from the new Coffee OS infotainment system, a significant upgrade over the previous version. It's quick, responsive, and easy to read, ensuring it remains competitive for years to come. The system includes satellite navigation, integrated apps like Spotify and TuneIn radio, and a dedicated 4x4 off-road display. However, the Chinese version's autonomous driving functionality won't be available in Australia.
Missing Features and Pricing
One notable omission is the lack of a full-time four-wheel drive setting for sealed roads, which is a feature offered by Ford. GWM cites emissions as the reason, but it's a genuine drawback. Despite this, the Tank 500 3.0TD shows immense promise, especially with its competitive pricing, which could undercut the Prado and Everest by $20,000 to $30,000.
In summary, the GWM Tank 500 3.0TD is a compelling proposition, offering a powerful and efficient diesel engine, an exceptional ride quality, and a modern infotainment system. While there are some missing features, its value proposition could make it a serious contender in the off-road SUV market.
