GWM Tank 300 Full Review

The GWM Tank 300 is shaking up the 4×4 scene in South Africa, offering an impressive blend of off-road capability and affordability. With a price point of around R726 000, it’s positioned to compete with more established mid-size off-road SUVs, such as the Toyota Prado, Ford Everest, and Mitsubishi Pajero Sport, while costing significantly less. This review takes an in-depth look at the Tank 300’s performance on the Kungwini 4×4 Track, covering its technical features, off-road capabilities, comfort, and practicality.

Build quality and performance

The Tank 300’s build quality is immediately noticeable. The cabin is refined and quiet, even over rough tracks, giving it a sense of durability and comfort not always expected from newer market entrants. The 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine produces 162kW and 318Nm of torque, which, combined with an eight-speed automatic gearbox, provides a smooth and responsive driving experience. Unlike traditional diesel options preferred by South African off-road enthusiasts for their torque and fuel efficiency, the Tank’s petrol engine offers impressive power for tackling a variety of obstacles.

The Tank 300’s transmission and gear ratios play a significant role in how well it handles off-road terrain. With smaller turbocharged petrol engines, traction control can sometimes lead to power surges when the turbo kicks in; however, the Tank 300’s eight-speed gearbox appears to be well-calibrated for this setup. The vehicle’s traction control system works well but isn’t as fine-tuned as seen in some higher-end models. Nevertheless, it’s effective enough to make the Tank 300 a capable contender in most off-road situations.

Examining the 4×4 system

Equipped with a proper transfer case, low-range gearing, and a rear differential lock, the Tank 300 is well-prepared for serious off-road challenges. The vehicle’s 4×4 system allows for seamless switching between four-wheel drive high and low modes, an essential feature for tackling varying terrain. Once low range is engaged, the Tank 300 offers impressive control and power on difficult inclines, rock beds, and other demanding surfaces. The 265/65 R17 tyres add stability and durability, offering a good balance of traction and flexibility.

On the track, the Tank 300 demonstrated its abilities by handling cross-axle and articulation situations effectively. Its traction control system manages to keep the vehicle steady, even when navigating obstacles that require the wheels to move independently up or down. When the traction control alone wasn’t enough, engaging the rear diff lock provided additional stability, allowing the Tank 300 to crawl over challenging obstacles with ease. In low range, the engine delivers so much torque that braking was often needed to keep the vehicle’s speed in check.

One of the Tank 300’s standout features is its excellent breakover and departure angles, which allow it to clear obstacles with ease. This design feature is particularly valuable for off-roaders, as it reduces the chance of scraping the undercarriage. When encountering sandy patches on the track, the Tank 300 maintained traction without needing to deflate its tyres, although deflating would enhance performance further on softer surfaces.

Comfort and practicality for everyday use

Inside, the Tank 300 offers a comfortable, feature-rich environment. The cabin feels spacious, and the layout is intuitive, with all controls easily accessible. The infotainment system and driver-assist features are well-integrated, making it not only a capable off-roader but also a comfortable option for daily commutes. For drivers who want a blend of off-road ability and on-road comfort, the Tank 300 offers an attractive mix.

Despite its strong points, the Tank 300’s fuel consumption could be a consideration for some buyers. The 2.0-litre turbo engine delivers impressive power but this comes with higher fuel consumption. A diesel option, if available, could address this concern, but for now, only the petrol model is available in South Africa. While higher fuel consumption might not be ideal for long expeditions, it’s manageable for short trips and weekend adventures.

Aftermarket limitations and potential upgrades

One drawback of the Tank 300 is its limited aftermarket support. Leading brands in off-road accessories, like ARB and Opposite Lock, currently don’t offer suspension lifts, bull bars, or other modifications for this model. This limitation may be a concern for hardcore off-road enthusiasts who enjoy customising their vehicles for specific terrain.

However, the Tank 300’s stock configuration offers impressive breakover and departure angles, meaning that extensive modifications may not be necessary for many users. Swapping the stock tyres for all-terrain tyres is likely the most valuable upgrade, providing enhanced traction and durability across various terrains. While the Tank 300’s tyres are road-oriented by default, upgrading to a more robust set of tyres would improve performance on rougher surfaces without the need for additional customisation.

A competitive option in the mid-size 4×4 market

The GWM Tank 300 is competitively priced compared to similar 4×4 models yet offers a host of features that make it a strong choice for off-road enthusiasts and overland adventurers alike. It offers many of the same capabilities as pricier models like the Toyota Prado and Ford Everest, making it a viable alternative for those looking for value without sacrificing performance.

While some buyers may be hesitant due to the Tank’s lack of brand recognition in the off-road community, its performance on the Kungwini 4×4 Track shows that it’s more than capable. With its strong build, well-designed 4×4 system, and competitive pricing, it’s poised to attract interest from those who may not have considered GWM before.

Final thoughts

The GWM Tank 300 is a welcome addition to the South African 4×4 market, offering a capable and affordable option for buyers interested in off-road adventures without the high price tag associated with traditional models. Its blend of off-road features, comfortable interior, and competitive pricing make it an attractive option for a wide range of users, from weekend warriors to those looking for a dependable overland vehicle. Although aftermarket options are currently limited, the Tank 300’s stock setup offers excellent capability that would suit most off-road situations.

For those in the market for a mid-size 4×4 that combines quality, capability, and value, the Tank 300 deserves a closer look. Whether navigating mountain trails or exploring uncharted landscapes, this vehicle proves itself as a solid and reliable option, showing that GWM has created a 4×4 ready for South Africa’s diverse terrains and adventure seekers alike.

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