2024 GWM Tank 500
The all-new GWM Tank 500 has arrived in South Africa, and it’s certainly making waves as a hybrid SUV that blends bold design, luxurious interiors, and a comprehensive feature set. While its aim to establish itself as a flagship model in GWM’s lineup is ambitious, it brings both impressive innovations and a few points worth discussing.
The exterior of the Tank 500 is nothing short of daring. With a massive front grille and 20-inch alloy wheels, it’s clear that this SUV wants to make an impression before you even step inside. Automatic side steps and a panoramic sunroof add an extra layer of refinement, while the sheer size of the vehicle is both commanding and functional.
It toes the line between rugged and upscale, catering to drivers who want to turn heads, whether they’re navigating city streets or off-road trails. However, the bold styling might not appeal to everyone; it’s a design that demands attention and leaves little room for subtlety.
Step inside, and the Tank 500 reveals its more opulent side. The interior is crafted with premium materials, including Nappa leather-accented seats, and is packed with technology. A 14.6-inch touchscreen dominates the dashboard, offering access to infotainment, climate controls, and drive modes.
While the interface provides physical buttons for commonly used features, the reliance on touch controls for some essential functions can feel a bit over-engineered. There’s a fine line between luxury and complexity, and the Tank 500 occasionally tips towards the latter, especially for those who prefer straightforward functionality.
Comfort is prioritized in the seating arrangements. The driver and front passenger seats come with heating, ventilation, and an eight-point massage feature, ensuring a plush ride even on long journeys. Rear passengers are also treated well, with adjustable headrests, climate controls, and charging ports. The third-row seats, while electronically foldable, are best reserved for shorter trips or smaller occupants. The ambient lighting, customizable down to synchronizing with music, adds a fun and stylish touch, although it might feel a bit gimmicky to some.
From a practical perspective, the Tank 500 offers a cavernous luggage area, with up to 1,459 liters of space when the rear seats are folded. Tinted windows and a luggage cover provide added security, and the plush interior trim extends even to the cargo area, underscoring the luxury-focused approach.
The Tank 500’s hybrid powertrain is a standout feature. Combining a 2.0-liter turbocharged petrol engine with an electric motor, the SUV delivers a combined output of 255 kW and 648 Nm of torque. It’s capable of accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in a brisk 8.3 seconds, despite its hefty 2,605 kg curb weight.
With 11 all-terrain drive modes, it’s well-equipped to handle anything from snow to sand, but whether most drivers will utilize its full off-road potential is debatable. The hybrid system itself is efficient and smooth, and while it adds to the SUV’s versatility, it also introduces complexity, particularly in terms of long-term maintenance.
Safety features abound, with a suite of active and passive systems that includes adaptive cruise control, emergency lane-keep assist, and a 360-degree camera system. While these systems enhance safety, they can also feel intrusive, particularly if you’re accustomed to more traditional vehicles. The Tank 500’s ability to monitor every angle and assist in various driving scenarios is impressive but may require some adjustment for those who prefer to be in full control.
It’s clear that GWM has packed the Tank 500 with technology and luxury to rival established brands. However, this comes at a cost: a hefty price tag of R1 222 900. For this amount, buyers gain access to an extensive warranty and care package, including a seven-year/200 000 km warranty and an eight-year/150 000 km battery warranty.
While these assurances add peace of mind, they also reflect the brand’s understanding that convincing South Africans to invest in a relatively new name at this price point requires substantial aftersales support.
In Summary
The GWM Tank 500 is an ambitious entrant into the South African SUV market. Its bold design, opulent interior, and hybrid powertrain showcase GWM’s desire to compete with more established luxury SUV brands. However, the overwhelming number of features and its high price tag might give potential buyers pause.
It’s an SUV that demands attention but also asks for a leap of faith from those considering the switch to a relatively new contender in the luxury space. Whether the Tank 500 can carve out a loyal following remains to be seen, but it’s undoubtedly a bold statement of intent from GWM.
