When you first set eyes on the GWM Tank 500, it’s clear that it’s no ordinary SUV. This imposing 5.1-metre behemoth boasts a design that marries ruggedness with luxury, and while this might be expected from a luxury off-roader, the fact that it comes from GWM – a Chinese manufacturer historically known for budget-friendly options – adds an element of surprise. But with a price tag just shy of R1.3-million, does it live up to the hype? After putting it through its paces at the Kungwini off-road track, it’s safe to say that the Tank 500 is redefining what a Chinese 4×4 can be, but it’s not without a few quirks.
A technical powerhouse
The GWM Tank 500 houses a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine, combined with a hybrid electric motor, delivering 255kW and a remarkable 648Nm of torque. This hybrid system shines in the way it distributes torque almost instantly. Unlike traditional petrol or diesel engines that often require a build-up to access peak torque, the electric motor provides a satisfying low-end power that’s perfect for off-road scenarios where controlled, steady torque is essential.
Mated to a nine-speed auto gearbox, this hybrid system makes it a standout in off-road performance. The hybrid’s instant torque complements the mechanical grip, creating an impressively smooth yet potent drive experience even on difficult terrain. In situations where one might expect hesitation, the Tank 500’s drivetrain consistently delivers, offering confident handling both on-road and in challenging off-road sections. This instant torque is especially useful when tackling steep climbs and negotiating tight, twisty sections where controlled power is crucial.
Handling the obstacles
A frequent concern with vehicles this size is the breakover angle – particularly relevant on off-road tracks with uneven surfaces. The Tank 500’s shorter wheelbase, however, proves to be a significant advantage. Despite its hefty proportions, it manoeuvred well across the track’s obstacles, and to our surprise, it never scraped or bottomed out. The ground clearance, aided by precise engineering, ensures the vehicle manages most obstacles effortlessly.
The Tank 500’s traction control and hill start assist also earn high praise. Traction control on this model operates seamlessly; it engages smoothly when encountering slippage, applying brakes to the spinning wheel just enough to regain traction without jerky interference. In particularly tough conditions, the Tank’s off-road expert mode allows the driver to override the traction control system, providing full power and letting the tyres spin as needed to power out of deep sand or mud. With the added advantage of two differential locks, the Tank 500 is well-equipped to handle cross-axle obstacles and heavy articulation sections with ease.
Luxurious tech-forward interior
The interior of the Tank 500 is another area where GWM has poured in the luxury. Space is abundant, with a roomy cabin that feels akin to a premium sedan. Comfort is enhanced with heated and ventilated seats for both front and rear passengers, dual-zone climate control, and an overall thoughtful design that ensures a pleasurable experience, whether tackling rough terrain or cruising on the motorway.
The Tank 500 boasts an impressive array of technological features. Its multiple cameras are particularly noteworthy for off-road enthusiasts, providing a bird’s-eye view of the car’s surroundings and giving drivers a clear sense of where each wheel is. In low range, the system cleverly stitches images together to create a virtual ‘see-through’ effect, which allows you to ‘see’ underneath the car, improving wheel placement and obstacle negotiation.
The infotainment system, however, does have a learning curve. With various menus and sub-menus, drivers may initially find it challenging to locate specific functions. Given more time, it’s likely that drivers will become accustomed to the interface, but a simpler, more intuitive setup would make it easier to navigate on the go.
Performance on tarmac
On the open road, the Tank 500 impresses with a solid and stable drive. Steering feedback is responsive, and while it’s a large vehicle, it doesn’t feel cumbersome. Its stability on highways, even at high speeds, reflects the robust engineering underpinning its design. However, one area that could benefit from improvement is fuel efficiency. Despite the hybrid technology, real-world fuel consumption figures fell short of expectations, with averages around 12-13 litres per 100km rather than the claimed 8.5. This discrepancy raises questions about the hybrid system’s efficiency in typical driving conditions, especially for South African drivers who may cover long distances at highway speeds.
Off-roading tech – the pros and cons
The Tank 500’s suite of driver assistance and safety technologies is extensive, but it comes with some minor annoyances. For instance, the parking sensors and proximity alerts activate frequently, even in off-road conditions where obstacles are expected. Although these can be disabled, they automatically re-engage after a few minutes, which can become tiresome during intense off-road sessions. For those used to navigating trails, having constant alarms reactivating mid-obstacle may detract from the experience.
Additionally, the placement of the rear differential lock button on the passenger side seems like an oversight. While this is unlikely to cause issues for most, the possibility of accidental engagement by a passenger – particularly a child – could be hazardous.
Practical considerations and market position
With a towing capacity of 3.5 tonness, the Tank 500 is well-suited for hauling caravans or trailers, which will appeal to South African buyers who often load up for long-distance adventures. The Tank’s hybrid powertrain and torque-rich performance should handle towing with ease. However, considering the hybrid engine’s relatively high fuel consumption in regular use, it remains to be seen whether this powertrain setup will deliver significant benefits in heavy towing scenarios.
At just under R1.3-million, the Tank 500 has entered the South African market as one of the most premium Chinese vehicles available, and this price point is likely to be a consideration for prospective buyers. Historically, Chinese brands in South Africa have positioned themselves as affordable alternatives to Western and Japanese brands, so there may be a hesitation among consumers when it comes to paying this much for a GWM product. That said, given the sheer number of features, capability, and luxury the Tank 500 offers, it could very well challenge these preconceptions.
Final verdict: More than just a Chinese SUV
The GWM Tank 500 is a well-rounded vehicle that combines off-road prowess, interior luxury, and cutting-edge technology in a striking package. It’s an SUV that not only holds its own on challenging trails but also offers a smooth, enjoyable experience on the road. The quirks, such as the fuel consumption and the safety system alerts, are minor in the grand scheme of what this vehicle achieves. For those looking to invest in a luxury 4×4 that breaks away from traditional norms and offers a high level of performance for its price point, the Tank 500 is a serious contender.
While there may still be some reluctance to embrace a Chinese brand in this price bracket, the Tank 500 could be the model that finally shifts perceptions, proving that GWM is capable of producing a truly premium SUV. For anyone in the market for a high-capability hybrid 4×4 with the latest in comfort and technology, the Tank 500 is worth a close look – and perhaps a test drive on a rugged track to fully appreciate all it has to offer.
