Exploring the GWM Tank 500:
A Journey Through the Australian Landscape
Embarking on a classic road trip from Melbourne’s bustling CBD to the serene Victorian countryside, we set out to test the GWM Tank 500, a new 7-seat 4x4 SUV set to make waves in the Australian market. Sponsored by GWM
This journey wasn’t just about the vehicle, but about discovering how it integrates with the diverse terrains and lifestyles of everyday Australians. With some insights from GWM’s own Steve Maciver, we’ll delve into what makes the GWM Tank 500 a compelling choice for families and adventurers alike.
The Road to Adventure
Our adventure began in Melbourne, navigating through city streets and heading towards the expansive landscapes of Victoria. The journey provided the perfect setting to test the GWM Tank 500’s capabilities, from urban commutes to rugged off-road trails.
As we hit the open road, the GWM Tank 500’s hybrid engine showcased its prowess. With 255 kilowatts of power and 648 Newton meters of torque, acceleration was smooth and confident.
The nine-speed automatic transmission complemented the engine’s performance, ensuring a seamless drive. Despite the SUV’s considerable size and weight, it managed a commendable 0 to 100 km/h time of 8.3 seconds, making highway merging and overtaking effortless.
“Throughout the trip, both drivers and passengers appreciated the GWM Tank 500’s smooth performance and comfortable interior”
Design and Comfort: A Closer Look
The GWM Tank 500’s design is a blend of ruggedness and sophistication, no matter whether you choose the Lux or Ultra specification.
18-inch alloy wheels, and distinctive LED headlamps with daytime running lights set the stage for its bold appearance.
The steel-look grille and rear-mounted spare wheel not only add to its rugged aesthetic appeal but also enhance its functionality, particularly for off-road enthusiasts.
The vehicle’s braked towing capacity of 3-tonnes and favourable departure, breakover, and approach angles ensure it’s ready for any adventure.
You don’t need to worry about the side steps getting in the way either. They only deploy when you open the door, and retract flush into the body when closed, a very nice touch. When you’re properly off-road, you can disable them too.
Stepping inside our top-spec GWM Tank 500 Ultra, it continues to impress with a luxurious interior. Nappa leather seats, which are heated, cooled, and massaging, seriously elevate the comfort level.
The 14.6-inch infotainment screen is awesome, snappy and responsive, easy to use and high-resolution. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto look incredible on this display, with a bigger view of your maps than you’ve probably ever seen in a car
Add the 12.3-inch fully-digital instrument cluster and a heads-up display, and you’ve got a wealth of information and control options.
A wireless charging pad, clever storage solutions, and an epic sunroof stretching from the second row to the front further add to the convenience and family-friendly feel of the GWM Tank 500.
The GWM voice assistant is great fun too, able to control many of the cars functions, from seat heating and climate control, to windows and the sunroof, all with simple natural language commands.
“The Infinity 12-speaker sound system delivered crisp audio, making long drives enjoyable.”
On the Road: Performance and Experience
Cruising through the Victorian countryside, the GWM Tank 500’s active noise-cancelling technology created a serene cabin environment, allowing conversations to flow easily even from the third row.
The Infinity 12-speaker sound system delivered crisp audio, making long drives enjoyable.
Throughout the trip, both drivers and passengers appreciated the GWM Tank 500’s smooth performance and comfortable interior.
The hybrid engine’s efficiency was a notable advantage, especially during long stretches between fuel stops. The vehicle’s ability to handle diverse terrains—from highways to forest trails—demonstrated its versatility.
“It’s got hybrid technology loaded with comfort, loaded with tech, loaded with safety and a really, really sharp driveaway price as well”
Off the Beaten Path
Our journey took an exciting turn as we ventured deeper into off-road territory. Full disclosure: while not an experienced 4x4 enthusiast, I found the GWM Tank 500’s features incredibly supportive.
The off-road excursion revealed another facet of the GWM Tank 500: its ability to transition seamlessly from a family SUV to a rugged off-roader.
With nine different drive modes available including snow, mud, and rock, low-range transfer case, and locking diffs, this vehicle is ready for almost any terrain.
The transparent chassis technology and comprehensive camera system provided confidence and control, even for novice off-roaders. It uses the cameras to provide a clear view of the terrain around and beneath you and was particularly useful on the more tricky sections.
Tackling steep climbs and rocky paths, the GWM Tank 500 performed admirably, proving its mettle in challenging conditions.
This duality makes it a versatile option for those who need a vehicle for both daily commutes and weekend adventures.
“Tackling steep climbs and rocky paths, the GWM Tank 500 performed admirably, proving its mettle in challenging conditions.”
Community and Connectivity
Throughout our journey, we engaged with a lot of people, from automotive experts to everyday consumers. Their feedback was overwhelmingly positive, praising the GWM Tank 500’s blend of luxury, technology, and practicality.
The vehicle’s environmental impact, enhanced by its hybrid engine, resonated with many, aligning with growing concerns about sustainability.
In conversations with adventurers and outdoor enthusiasts, the GWM Tank 500’s robust off-road capabilities and luxurious interior were particularly appreciated.
The ability to comfortably navigate remote areas either using the integrated satellite navigation or smartphone mirroring, while enjoying premium features like heated and massaging seats, made a strong impression.
Recently awarded a five-star ANCAP safety rating and with dozens of driver assistance features, the GWM Tank 500 is a safe choice for Australian families too.
The Future of GWM in Australia
GWM’s strategic approach to the Australian market involves extensive local validation and testing to tailor vehicles to the specific demands of Australian consumers.
This commitment is evident in the GWM Tank 500, designed to handle Australian road conditions and consumer preferences.
Steve Maciver, Head of Marketing & Communications at GWM, highlighted the GWM Tank 500’s unique position in the market.
“It’s got hybrid technology loaded with comfort, loaded with tech, loaded with safety and a really, really sharp driveaway price as well”, Mr Maciver remarked. “It probably is capable of shaking up the segment like no other.”
The decision to focus on a single powertrain—a hybrid turbo-petrol engine—aligns with GWM’s commitment to new energy vehicles, providing a balance of performance and efficiency ideal for the Australian automotive landscape.
“We decided the hybrid engine with its really strong combination of towing ability, performance and efficiency” Mr Maciver said, reiterating GWM’s view that for Australia “it was the right engine for this car.”
The brand’s expanding dealership network, now approaching 100 locations, ensures comprehensive support for GWM Tank 500 owners across the country.
This growth, combined with the introduction of innovative products like the GWM Tank 500, certainly positions GWM for continued success in the Australian market.
Final Thoughts
Our journey with the GWM Tank 500 revealed a vehicle that is more than just a new entrant in the 4x4 SUV market. It’s a statement of what modern SUVs can offer: luxury, technology, performance, and environmental consciousness.
Whether navigating city streets, cruising on highways, or exploring off-road trails, the GWM Tank 500 stands out as a versatile and compelling option for Australian families and adventurers alike.
In conclusion, the GWM Tank 500 offers a unique blend of features that cater to diverse needs. Its competitive pricing, extensive capabilities, and luxurious touches make it a vehicle worth considering.
As GWM continues to innovate and expand, the GWM Tank 500 is poised to make a significant impact in the Australian automotive landscape.
