GWM Tank 500 hybrid 7 seater 4x4 SUV 2024 review: Inc. off-road, practicality, fuel use, specs

[@blakeclayton7322]

As someone who currently owns a GWM Cannonx-X, and another Cannon L-CC I can confidently say GWM have impressed me massively! I was cautious at first, having my first 'cheaper Chinese vehicle' however after putting 40,000kms on my Cannon-X, and 5000kms on the Cannon L-CC I can confidently say that I have trust with GWM that they are here to stay in the Australian market! I will be taking one of these for a test drive in the near distant future and looking to upgrade my Cannon X whilst keeping the L-CC for work purposes Fantastic Review, and thank you for not having the reviewer mindset of "it's not a Toyota so it's trash" like you see on so many other channels! People need to realise the Value these cars bring to Australia and how they let families with less income that couldn't afford a $70,000+ Toyota to gain space in the large SUV / Ute market

[@mingguo974]

HAVAL from GWM was top seller for budget medium SUV for around 100 months and totally sold 4million. Tank 300, 500, and now 700 are also very popular in China. People in China mainly buy Mecedece-Benz, BMW, Audi, Volkswagen, hybrid, Chinese brand cars (MG, GMW, etc too many options). A few Korean and Japanese brand cars are leaving Chinese market or considering leaving, such as Mitsubishi, Hyundai, Kia, Suzuki, Mazada etc, not many people would buy those brands or the like.

[@krisdockers2047]

Well, 40k and 5k kms not exactly a qualification for robustness, longevity and reliability (yet), i will be watchn these vehicles over next two to three years checkn out long term reviews etc. So far, i agree, , i see a change of direction for the Aus car market and Chinese Company’s filling big gaps-however, with a vehicle like this, in a country like this , then back up, parts and service that will be broadly accessible in woop woop will be key. Right now OK for soccer moms, even the local weekend off road n beach camp warrior. But , right now if i was off to do a lap starting in the next month or year, I would still spend the xtra$$$ on a Toyota or other tried n tested Japanise born unit, even a Ford. So in three years from now, if these beasties prove their salt, achieve that red dirt status, and a mechanic in woop woop saying, “ no worries” part will be here tomorrow, then i will be more comfortable-BUT , bet ya bottom Yen, if they achieve that, they wont be 10, 15 or $20k cheaper than the competition. But maybe ( just maybe) the whole market may become a bit more affordable, SO that is good!

[@blakeclayton7322]

@@krisdockers2047 I reckon you could check out wheels by the ocean. they've essentially done an entire lap around AUS in the cannon-L with a camper and it help up well! not a super advocate but as others have said, I reckon GWM is on the cusp of breaking into the mainstream AUS market. Might take another 5 or so years, as did the Kia/Hyundai evolution from the early 2010s to Nowadays

[@HyperFragHD]

The canon is good but the dpf manual burns once every 3 or so weeks will put anyone off

[@madrx2]

Where do you store your dignity when you don't bring it with you on car trips?

[@steveneven3752]

one more happy cannon x owner here and gwm is on my trusted brand list, just over 120000km today and my cannon has never failed once.

[@therightcar]

Thanks for letting us know that mate. A testament to quality by the sounds of things!

[@buncha5651]

There looks like a lot of anti China coments here. I am old enough to have heard the same comments about Japanese and Korean vehicle's in the past.😊

[@dark6c159]

not anti -china. but chinese car wont last 5 years.

[@longdang3379]

then ur old enough to know that the japs and koreans took a long time to establish their names because they also had reliability issues early on. The koreans until the last decade were still considered pos. Have the chinese proved themselves yet? Not in the slightest sense

[@hynoor7254]

@@dark6c159 as if you owned one 🤣

[@Ailindeng10]

tank 300 more than 5 years every thing is ok

[@liuyangyang]

@@dark6c159 I just don't understand, what cars can Australia manufacture? If you cannot make it, then you can only accept what you are fed.

[@stevespringfield]

Drove one today, and not completely decided but will probably buy one. It has tons of power for anyone that thinks it's not enough, and the level of luxury and features is second to none for any 4wd under 100k. Yes, it may depreciate faster than some other brands but I would rather save 30k upfront.. As for reliabilty I can spend 100k on a Jeep (proven to be unreliable) 120k+ on a Defender (proven to be unreliable) or wait for 18 months to get a new 150kw Prado for 100k with half the features.... And only the Tank gives you a 7year warranty out of those vehicles.... If you drive one and then look at it logically, it's a strong value proposition that can't be ignored as an option for a large luxury 4wd under 100k.

[@aijzoo5226]

Have you bought one? If yes, Whats your experience with it? any issues?, If not. What did you get instead?

[@joelopic]

I own the GWM Cannon ute and absolutely love it. Hence, would have no hesitation on buying this beast.

[@pummyy]

Everest V6 is a better bet for teh price.

[@Ilikepie18855]

Same, have one in south africa. only 2 years old with 45k km, but zero problem so far. Probably keeping it until the engine dies, will be company car later on.

[@aljoubert8749]

@@pummyy Ugly plastic interior and much more pricey.

[@redbrickize]

@@pummyybe careful with that notorious V6, it has a history. I was so much wanted to have this new Everest V6, till I did a research of that LIon V6, something doggy about that engine. Americans dumped the engine from their Ford F-250 or 150 after only 3 years with no explanation, it is bit fishy for me. Google the Lion V6, lots of explanations of it, mainly from UK and German mechanics.

[@TheAkshatkalra]

​@@redbrickizeagreed & mileage is bad on a V6 engine as compared to the turbo engine.

[@mvnorsel6354]

Just back from the Bangkok Motor Show, so many Chinese brands that are not in Australia. Great to be able to sit in all the cars. I get the feeling the future is Chinese. Great day out, humidity here 100%.

[@liuyangyang]

😀 Wait for the Beijing Motor Show. Most Australians have no idea what is happening in Chinese car market. BMW Benz and Audi sales are dropping significantly. Anyone who buys X5 GLS or Q7 is looked as an idiot.

[@ubernoob103]

So its raining then?

[@manimalworks7424]

I have to agree with you. In the last week alone, I watched on KZbin 5 new car launches: Changan G318, Xiaomi SU7, BYD Yuan Up, Changan Uni-Z, and Avitar 12. All except the cheap BYD Yuan Up are very impressive with new innovative technologies, e.g., dimmable glass roof. At this speed, I don't think any other car manufactures have any chances of winning the race.

[@mingguo974]

HAVAL from GWM was top seller for budget medium SUV for around 100 months and totally sold 4million. Tank 300, 500, and now 700 are also very popular in China. People in China mainly buy Mecedece-Benz, BMW, Audi, Volkswagen, hybrid, Chinese brand cars (MG, GMW, etc too many options). A few Korean and Japanese brand cars are leaving Chinese market or considering leaving, such as Mitsubishi, Hyundai, Kia, Suzuki, Mazada etc, not many people would buy those brands or the like.

[@rambleon3698]

​@@liuyangyang They always were!

[@gregturner_awod]

The car looks solid and well built. GWM are a major vehicle manufacturer and build quality looks excellent. The mechanical set up looks interesting and effective. As an open road towing tourer and used as a 5 seater it would be excellent. Someone else said “at this price buy an established brand”, and I disagree. GWM are well established and their build quality likely matches the best. I’ve driven many 4WD’s over the years. If I still needed such a vehicle I’d likely look at GWM, albeit I’d negotiate better tyres on the vehicle than GWM offer with the car. My last 4WD was Isuzu, but this has been an excellent review and I’d certainly look closely at the Tank 500, but once again would want the tyres changed. The high spec version offers most of what I’d want. Some of the ‘idiosyncrasies’ described aren’t toxic, and something a dedicated owner would quickly learn to handle. The economy offered by the Tank 500 is actually very reasonable for the kind of driving done during the review. I like it. Warranty is excellent. Thanks for showing us this vehicle, another excellent review.

[@liuyangyang]

GWM are a major vehicle manufacturer and build quality looks excellent. -- well. major vehicle manufacturer is questionable

[@gregturner_awod]

@@liuyangyang check the facts. They are. en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Great_Wall_Motor#:~:text=Great%20Wall%20Motor%20Co.%2C%20Ltd,1.281%20million%20sales%20in%202021.

[@liuyangyang]

@@gregturner_awod GWM is in deep trouble now. Its Harval serial is outsaled by many other SUVs. The HEV tech is ancient. Their technology is getting outdated already. Even the PHEV version of tank 500 is out performed by BYD Bao5. It is getting out of top 8 and 10 car makers very soon, maybe by the end of this year. Other chinese car manufacturers are overpassing GWM very very soon.

[@SimonJ-lq8et]

By well established I think people mean how many total ownerships, that directly translate to how many dealerships in remote towns, how well are parts stocked across Australia, how easy can you find a mechanic that can confidently work on it, that type or "established". Being an off-roader you need to consider all of the above. It's not an electric car that is never a single day away from the CBD. Being established in other countries does no mean being established in Australia, at least not yet.

[@gregturner_awod]

@@SimonJ-lq8et Understood, but you’re talking with someone who owned a “well-established” brand of car that was off the road for 4 months waiting for parts. I live in a major regional city, but they didn’t even have parts in Australia. We can each hold our own views. There’s a local GWM dealer in my regional setting.

[@LawlessRaafay]

Your un biased reviews are perfect, not like all other Australian car reviewers

[@therightcar]

Thank you!

[@brendanlesko2306]

Great review!! I’ve a test drive lined up . Tank 300 is good but this is next level Bigger for the family and the tech is how it should be being 2024 . Looking forward to buying one and giving it a lift with the right wheels and soon the aftermarket accessories will be plentiful. LOVE IT !

[@therightcar]

Thanks for that! Glad you liked the review. And hope you like the car!

[@Carsandkettlebells]

It’s getting harder and harder to argue against the idea of these Chinese cars with all the mainstream brands price gouging to the absolute max these days in Australia. The level of refinement is improving with every generation and if the mechanical reliability measures up the big 5 are in trouble.

[@blairr1875]

I dont have car allegiance but i do have a growing family with a german shepherd. Ive bought one of these. Will give an update on the vehicle. I feel confident this will perform well. I dont need a generational 4wd or want to pay an additional 20-30k for the toyota tax. I will using that money for my kids. At the end of the day i think it is good we have more options now and hopefully more will come as a result.

[@TheAkshatkalra]

Update please..7months gone.😀

[@blairr1875]

​@TheAkshatkalra haha your right I did say I would give an update. I'm extremely impressed with our Tank 500. It's handles great on and off the road and is massive on the inside. The quality of the interior is very solid and plush. With the two rear seats down my big german shepherd can easily fit with our daily luggage etc. Fuel economy is a bit iffy but it makes up for it with power. I really think that anyone looking at a 4wd should consider this as an option or at the very least test drive one. It's hard to turn down.

[@TheAkshatkalra]

@@blairr1875 Thanks for the update, mate. I'm planning to buy a Tank 500 Ultra next month in silver (I'd love to have black, but I'm not a big fan of cleaning my car every 3-4 days 😂). Which colour did you go for? Also, if you don't mind me asking, what fuel economy are you getting? Anything around 10-12 is good for this 4*4 7 seater heavy vehicle. Also, I am planning to put A/T tyres on so that the tank will get a more aggressive look also I will get more traction on the road. So are you using the same tyre, or did you change it to an A/T tyre?

[@blairr1875]

@TheAkshatkalra absolutely on the money mate. Our fuel consumption is about 10.6L/100km which is on normal mode. Sometimes i bang it in sports mode and the car bloody flys but chews a bit more fuel. Our last car was black and it was horrendous. We are in WA and the sun just smashes the darker colour cars with heat. I We opted for white which looks good with the dark tint. We got the pirelli scorpion a/t plus works a treat 👌🏽 hasn't changed the comfortability for on road driving either. We got the lux and I'm kicking myself i didn't get the ultra, you'll love it!

[@TheAkshatkalra]

@@blairr1875 10.6 is decent for this car, even without using eco mode. Nice. I saw some posts on Facebook and they said the same thing: the car gives better mileage on normal mode compared to eco mode(+ EV battery charges faster in normal mode), which is weird haha. But in normal mode, you are getting power as well, so whatever works is better for low fuel consumption. I am in New South Wales, and yes, in the summer, it gets very hot, so that's another reason for avoiding the black colour. Yes, the Ultra is good. For an extra 5-6k, you get a lot of extra features. Anyway, it was nice talking to you, mate. Have a good one. Drive safe.

[@shadow-oj8sj]

i own a H9, and love it, the Tank 500 looks like a update. love it and want one badly

[@RandomAnimator185]

Me too. This looks like an H9 upgrade

[@Ilikepie18855]

I think its still based on the H9 platform, which is still the Connon P series platform. I wish it had more diesel options!

[@marcusgeorge1825]

I’ve been looking forward to your review on this one as with the 300 you mentioned you’d buy the non hybrid version and save $10k AUD. Obviously, this doesn’t have that option and having just a relatively low output 2.0 litre turbo for this size just wouldn’t be enough. I’m looking forward to test driving one. Having spent the majority of the naughties working as an expat in China I could already see how far they’d come during that decade. These days, they no longer need the expats to learn from and will eventually overtake all the offerings from Japan and Korea. Mark my words, especially for those who are uneducated in how China are going about this process as I’m also old enough to remember when people turned their noses up for anything made in Japan. Where to you think your iPhone, the clothes you wear, the Tesla you may drive, the golfing clubs you use (TaylorMade and its competitors), the appliances you have, even the European products all have Chinese parts. It may be unfortunate, yet as consumers we only have ourselves to blame. Great review!

[@alex98b627]

I’ve always thought it’s interesting that white people that move to another country for work are “expats” rather than “immigrants” 🤔

[@muhammadbaqir7472]

Excellent and comprehensive review Matt. I've checked all the Australian car review channels but none of them cover everything about this car, don't know why? Love your unbiased honest review 👌. Keep up the good job Matt.

[@therightcar]

Thanks very much mate! Appreciate it. I’ll always be honest and always try to be as comprehensive as I can. 🙏😎

[@marcc.490]

Might need to test drive sometimes next month and maybe roll the dice. The spacious size will be a big welcome. Add in a new off roading hobby with the car

[@therightcar]

Report back if you do? Thanks!

[@zimuli3549]

In China, these tanks have been widely used for many years in the Xizang Plateau, the roof of the world, and in the deserts of Xinjiang, Inner Mongolia. The quality is absolutely reliable!

[@RodneyW]

Have you been paid to copy / paste this comment multiple times into each review of the Tank 500?

[@colin5373]

We picked up ours last night, and so far pretty impressed.

[@rauri1077]

How’s it going 1 month in?

[@michaelb3798]

I just got a 2024 H6GT the car and customer service as been fantastic. Top spec H6GT Haval is $40,000 top spec Toyota RAV4 is $66,000 with less warranty (7 vs 5 years) and 12 months wait time for the Toyota I will take my Haval and invest the $26,000 difference any day.

[@nostradamus2642]

I own a RAV4 Hybrid. In some respect the H6 Hybrid is better like NVH and ride comfort (RAV4 is too firm). The H6 Hybrid drives half the time like a EV as the RAV4 battery is smaller and less energy dense (it uses old nickel metal hydride).

[@Richard-sl8we]

Depreciation on the Haval will be a killer vs the RAV-4.

[@michaelb3798]

@@Richard-sl8we I will invest the $25,000 I save on getting the Haval vs Rav4. In 10 years we will both have 10 year old cars but my $25,000 will be worth my than the extra your Rav is worth

[@nostradamus2642]

@@michaelb3798 I owned Subaru, Honda and Mazda previously. Once the warranty period expires, the dealers overnight become stealers with all kinds of shit suddenly needing replacement and faults that never appeared. On top of that Japanese reality is a myth. The Subaru head gasket blew up and Honda transmission failed both after 4 years. At least in America they became class action law suits and owners received some compo.

[@michaelb3798]

@@nostradamus2642 interesting. My Haval salesman e-mailed me at 1:00am on Sunday after I asked question. I'm very happy. Hopefully no problems. I can't justify paying $60,000 - $70,000 for Japanese or Korean SUV or $80,000+ for European. Very expensive for young family in Australia in 2024.

[@lazysatmorning]

great review mate. for the money, this is a holy shit car. it is also crazy to see how gwm from making ugly and unrealiable utes 10 years ago to tank 300 and 500 today, amazing improvement.

[@ahh1180]

Great review and that’s a solid rig for that price

[@josephpereira1390]

GWM are gonna sell heaps of these. They sound like amazing value for money.. i think they look pretty good too. Hopefully this puts pressure on other car companies to reduce prices.

[@charlessas4138]

I don't think they will. Too underpowered with tiny 2.0L and not great towing capacity. For a vehicle this size a 2.0 litre just doesn't cut. Better off paying more for a Ranger with much bigger engine, considerably more power and 3.5T towing capacity.

[@ronaldov09]

@@charlessas4138 Underpowered...lol 255kw and 650Nm, 0-100 under 7 seconds. What do the Patrol and 300 series do 0-100? Yes might not be enough torque for those who go out in their caravan every second weekend, but for the majority its more than enough.

[@charlessas4138]

@@ronaldov09 I think you need to do your research and understand GWM's slight of hand and their deception. The 255kW and torque they are quoting is if you run the electric motor. The 2.0L motor gives you less than 130-135kW...! How long can you drive on the electric motor? About an hour! LESS if you are towing something like a caravan. Maybe then you might get 30-40 mins if you're lucky. The electric motor is really irrelevant, unless you are driving around the city for 50-60 km a day. If that is the case, why would anyone buy a car this size to do a few km a day around town? If you are going on a road trip say Syd to BNE or Melb, you will be using the 2.0 litre ICE motor 90% or more of the time (less than 135kW. As I said too expensive and too big a vehicle for a tiny 2.0L engine that is underpowered for a car this size. Just look at how big a flop the H9 was. Why do you think they took it off the market a few years ago. Not many people wanting to buy one. It was also a 2.0L motor. GWM has not learnt a thing about why Aussies like big engines on big cars.

[@rambleon3698]

​@@charlessas4138 If you want that buy it. Most dont.

[@rambleon3698]

​​@@charlessas4138 My Tank 300 Ultra goes like stink without the electric. That hybrid is to get you off the line and help in the bush. Once its all rolling you only need to tickle it along. If a hill comes along it'll kick back in. Stop living in the past. Our government is legislating all those dinosaurs off the road anyway.

[@buncha5651]

Great review, Matt of a great vehicle, but it's too big and expensive for me. My preference is the Tank 300 Ultra Non Hybrid version. 😊

[@TheWombat2012]

We’ve owned a Cannon X for nearly two years. Zero issues, great economy, comfortable, only complaint would be the quality of the speakers in the entertainment system, but they’re not bad. We’d look at one of these in a couple of years.

[@therightcar]

Great feedback. Thanks!

[@intrusivethought]

Good to see a car company pushing the envelope. Not my cup of tea yet but I see what they’re trying to do.

[@rosscase88]

Great value for money + 7 yrs warranty ,resale? good hi-way tourer🤔

[@Cptshad001]

luxury + space + off road capable at this price point is a very good package, it will do well

[@JerryPanandCars]

Awesome review! So completed! ❤

[@therightcar]

Thanks heaps for that. Appreciate it!

[@ProjectLabz]

I’ve had my GWM cannon for over two years now. Built solid, goes hard off-road, ZF 8 speed auto with Borg Warner transfer case. GWM has put out three beasts now where ford has put out a lemon ford ranger? 😂

[@Ilikepie18855]

Yep, same, have one in south africa, we call it the P-Series 4x4 LTD. Went off roading and into small rivers, put on AT tyres, it ripped through the off road park with ease! Put kids in the back bed and they were throwing rocks pretending we are a tank, and viewing giraffes etc. Lovely.

[@lmthunzi]

Excellent review mate

[@HarpreetSingh-iq6sm]

Thanks for lovely detailings but it hasnt launch in india. Waiting for it.

[@lylegalloway4545]

Great review and I like the early presentation of ‘alternative’ brand options. It would have been opportune to mention price differentials at that point. I like the on road and off road cover in one video. 👏

[@soulacoustic9235]

Great review Sir! Can't deny that this is absolute bang for your buck. People do get caught up in brands etc but if you are impartial then this is great value. I own a h6 ultra as well and the tech in it surpassed every other car. Budget wasnt an issue it was simply that the others were so ridiculously overpriced. So glad i went with the h6. it's been such a pleasure to drive and the heated seats, steering wheel etc have all been awesome. Would definitely get this as well if i had a larger family.

[@therightcar]

Thanks mate. Glad you liked the video!

[@Steve-jx3mh]

There is a lot of anti chinese sentiment on here, but we need brands like gwm now. Hyundai and Kia are not filling the entry level segment anymore. Gwm and MG may not be for everyone, but they are filling an important market position if you dont have the extra 20k for a toyota.

[@passby8070]

It's a entry point price, but it's definitely no entry feature or luxury.

[@markuc]

​@@passby8070 Looks to be pretty luxurious, at least enough for 90% of us I reckon.

[@krisdockers2047]

I dont think that i have seen any anti chinese comments before getting to yours on the scroll.

[@jinooo9874]

My father has a tank300. I will consider tank 500 for my next car

[@kim-li3nn]

其实你可以等tank 700😊

[@cyclemoto8744]

Impressive when new. Would I roll the dice and buy one? No. GWM have come a long way but I'm not prepared to take the risk yet. Thanks for the content. Cheers

[@mindfreeze0838]

To me the best feature on the dash is the analog clock, its fancy. On the family front its great, its got room is all rows for adults and kids and lots of cargo room. Sure it doesnt have 3rd row isofix tethers but thats for the wealthy, you wont find that in cars at this price point and some dont even have 3rd row curtain airbags.

[@therightcar]

True some of the rivals don’t have third row child seat points, unless you’re considering the Mazdas and Kias of this world, which do. Hardly for the wealthy.

[@mindfreeze0838]

@@therightcar i dunno,starting at 80k drive away for the cx 90 is kinda steep.

[@amethysturanus6351]

Lovely ♥️ Review. Thanks 🙏 for coverage.

[@therightcar]

Thanks mate!

[@tonymillar5342]

Thank You Matt ! Very Balanced Review, as always ! Resale is never going to be in Toyota class, but it's clear, GWM is committed to the Australian market ! Bang for buck (255 / 648) are serious numbers. As a long term ownership proposition, you could do worse ! #therightcar

[@liuyangyang]

don't worry about resale. The new toyota car price dropped over 20% in the past year in China due to competition. What about resale value for old cars? landsliding.

[@joshantonio6894]

Wow, that is impressive.

[@Funny-j7x3r]

I'd like to see a review related to it's towing capailities, especially fuel useage and performance on hills. Also the rear suspensions ability to cope with 250kg plus ball weight. Abililty to take airbags in the rear suspension if needed (had to add heavy duty suspension and airbags to my 2012 prado) and tow mirrors (such as "clear view")

[@paulgriffiths1566]

I would really like to know how well they tow a 3 tonne caravan. How long will the electric motor supply extra boost? Fuel consumption under these conditions?

[@therightcar]

Thanks for that Paul. I’ll put my hand up for a loan and try and address the question of towing. But the weights and capacities seem to stack up well!

[@paulgriffiths1566]

@@therightcar look forward to it. And I forgot to mention that I really enjoyed your review.

[@andrewliu8906]

​@therightcar thanks I have exactly the same question and searched the whole internet found me no answer on this. I have a d240 and it busts its ass towing a 2.8t van uphill highway at 110km/h. This could be a great replacement for my "reliable" European car if towing is okay.

[@RobertP-kr9ss]

Nice review. Looking for a . touring machine with some towing capability for retirement. Seriously considering it based on features but concerned about reliability and national service network. It fits the bill though.

[@therightcar]

It could be a great choice for that. I can understand your hesitation - but there are almost 100 service and sales points for the brand across Australia and it’s growing. Not close to Toyota yet (250+)

[@georgekritikos957]

What will the resale be like in 3 to 4 years

[@stevens15007]

It's fantastic, can't see why anyone would spend an extra 30k on a Prado, Toyota Tax is for the fanboys

[@riccjaccson6876]

If I knew where I could get it serviced, I would get on for USA

[@TheHayabusa09]

Pity about the front grill design for OZ variants..Overseas markets have a more slender design..

[@hunterhomeservicesracing6453]

Got one on order

[@markuc]

The interior is impressive. Puts the Japanese to shame

[@Johnno1979]

I've never been a fan of Chinese cars but this car looks great. Ironing out a few issues and it is right up there with amazing value and great 7 year warranty. I have a Ranger Platinum on order but will certainly have a look at these.

[@passby8070]

Toyota Prado is going to have alot of scratchy pastics and a cabin design that look like they have designed 20 years ago.

[@therightcar]

I dunno, I think the new Prado will look and feel a pretty nice place… time will tell!

[@ronaldov09]

@@therightcar I dont even find the Lexus GX as nice as this inside, Prado definitely wont be.

[@davidscott820]

Wait till you see the 700. Beast.

[@therightcar]

Yep, it looks epic!

[@kwu6456]

the Tibetan Plateau has arguably the toughest terrain in the world and guess what. you will find hundreds and hundreds of GWM Tanks running on the roads there. Many of them are rented cars and have done many many thousand miles in the toughest condition

[@billywakwabi4758]

Amazing value and kit for money

[@therightcar]

It certainly makes a strong case.

[@AndrewThomson888]

2021 VW Touareg 3L Diesel, with a 5.2m boat and trailer I get 11.5L per 100ks, around half that without it. Come on.

[@rambleon3698]

Lol. Its a toureg. Nuff said

[@nostradamus2642]

Hi Matt, (I visited the GWM website and am disappointed to see the Tank 500 come with these 18 inch off road wheels). Do you know if GWM makes available 20 inch rims (as they are shipped in almost all other markets) in Oz as an option. If fitted with after market rims, do you think GWM will void the warranty? Cheers

[@henrytoussaint7]

They would have chosen the 18" Wheels as they're better comfort-wise and have a larger sidewall for off-roading. I think this is a plus in my books.

[@marcc.490]

@@henrytoussaint7along with less petroleum usage on bigger tires. GWM could be after a 900km per tank figure?

[@axe2001]

i think you'd be in the minority

[@therightcar]

Hi mate, that's right - no 20s at launch. May be offered later, but don't think it's part of the early planning. Best to chat to a dealer about the warranty concern of fitting different wheels and tyres.

[@buncha5651]

18-inch wheels would be my choice.

[@Malc664]

Thanks for a very well done review Matt. The best one on the Tank 500. Just subbed. I think the towing capacity lets it down for me. It has the power so maybe a GVM upgrade is possible.

[@therightcar]

Thank you mate. Yep, I am looking forward to doing a towing test at some point!

[@YZJB]

Towing capacity is not usually due to an issue with GVM. It’s usually to do with engine/transmission/driveline cooling and that sort of thing

[@ken5957]

Is the sat navigation system subscription based??

[@givoni1]

Thanks for the great review and for mentioning the alternatives! You mentioned the Everest. What are your thoughts about the Fortuner? Both vs the Tank 500 and the Everest - would love your thoughts. Thanks!

[@therightcar]

Thanks for that! Glad you enjoyed the review and found it informative. The Fortuner is a solid option for someone who can deal with a tighter interior package and a very firm ride. It’s not as resolved or comfortable to drive in normal situations as either the Ford or the GWM, in my experience. I don’t think I could live with the stock ride of a Fortuner. It’s punishing. But with mods, it could be more manageable.

[@marktansacha1092]

I got one love it

[@brentonl2631]

Interesting SUV and probably be slightly interested but would like to see the towing fuel figures first. Impressive interior though.

[@hantusmostert]

35 inch spare wheel goes inside or on the roof

[@riderwheelfriends9132]

Good review

[@therightcar]

Thanks!

[@Richard-sl8we]

Hi Matt, Are you doing a review of the Kia Sportage hybrid soon? Hopefully in SX spec.

[@therightcar]

Hi Richard. I am doing a Sportage hybrid in the next fortnight. I’ve got the GT-Line, but will cover the specs for both. Stay tuned!

[@evolvetimelapse3129]

No tailgate lift kills it for me... That would be my only gripe.

[@therightcar]

Yeah - tailgate with a spare mounted on it is always a compromise.

[@kennethprocak5176]

The day you have to pull the big heavy spare out, you’ll sook that it’s not on a barn door! That’s why it’s on the barn door!

[@AdamAus85]

I like how it looks, kind of like an older 2010s Toyota Sequoia. Shame they don’t offer a larger engine.

[@AdamAus85]

And I’m real glad they brought this over, the 300 isn’t my thing at all. The 300 looks like an old Lada.

[@jackabubba]

People keep shitting on chinese made cars, and from some angles they have a point. But considering where they were 15 years ago to now is a huge step. The biggest hurdle for a vehicle like this is the looks you'd get in the school pick up parked next to the Sahara or Ti-L. Personally I would be waiitng for a few to hot 100 000km to get a true indication of quality, durability and the ever important dealer backing. The last thing GWM needs is a track record like Stellantis. One question , side by side does it feel like the competition? Badges aside, comparing it directly with a Sahara, Australias most over priced boat, would be interesting.

[@rambleon3698]

No better feeling than pulling up next to an "overpriced boat" with a better looking better specced luxury vehicle for half the price.

[@LawlessRaafay]

I wont mind buying this when I am in need of a 7 seater. Chinese cars are giving hard time to Toyota, Kia and Hyundai.

[@therightcar]

Yep - the establishment is being challenged.

[@MrGaZZaDaG]

isnt the 0-100 with launch control like sub 8 seconds?

[@Richard-sl8we]

Yes.

[@strider88888]

Nice review. Good info. Probably would suit me for the most part. GVM of 3k not great. Concerned about Chinese Build quality and reliability... Also Ability for aftermarket gear like bull bar and lights. Does it have a 12v adaptor to run a fridge at the back? Tyres are useless!

[@rauri1077]

People have got to get out of the 90’s and do their own research to understand “Chinese quality” is now a LOT better. Depends on the manufacturing organisation and quality controls, as someone who has been to China many times, they have cars years ahead of our market.

[@kim-li3nn]

​@@rauri1077你不需要提醒他，他还活在梦里😂如果他来过中国，并且试驾过华为问界m9，他一定会揉揉眼睛，表示这个不是真的😅

[@strider88888]

@@rauri1077 I'm not saying they are not improved. They are 100% better than the first Great Walls that came here many years ago. They are improving, but the quality is nowhere near as good as Japanese built. Koreans quality went through that too. And people know that a Genesis is a great quality build these days. IMO BYD is leading the way for China here, but then again they do have 60,000 engineers working for them.

[@DarrenBoxhall]

I was keen to sell my y62 and get one. But it's just not big enough unfortunately. They need to make something the size of a y62

[@ning1001]

Nowadays Rav4 is over $60k😂

[@therightcar]

It’s true. At the height of the shortages there were some listed at $79k drive-away.

[@Cptshad001]

Rav 4 is not a bad car but absolutely not worth the price and toyota is becoming a cult in australia ....

[@espkh1549]

@@Cptshad001you don’t get laid driving Rav4

[@dylanstark2047]

Rav4 is $34k In China and No need to wait

[@whosyourdaddy5408]

​@@dylanstark2047 RAV4在中国的官方建议售价

[@user-gk1nt6sm2z]

Value is excellent. Resale?

[@therightcar]

Anyone’s guess. But unless it’s a Toyota, chances are you’re taking a risk.

[@antonminos1737]

You forgot 👎👎to do the towing segment like you did on the patrol warrior

[@therightcar]

No, I didn’t forget. This was a launch drive. I’ve been asking for a Tank 500 with a tow kit for a while.

[@ubernoob103]

This looks all well and good, but the number of drivetrain problems reported for the Hybrid 300 in the owners groups does not bode well for the 500 being hybrid only.

[@mickspecial]

Software prob easy fix ?

[@bunnatang2081]

Lexus TX500h is the best to go for my perspective if you like full size SUV for family.

[@kevinbunter977]

It is a lot of car for the money resale at this stage will be it’s biggest risk for any prospective owner, been caught with both Ssangyong and Jeep for this issue in the past

[@bauboni]

>>biggest risk there's no risk here, I can assure you resale WILL be terrible :)

[@romeoguitar]

Hard choice between this and new Hyundai Santa Fe for school drops off ^^

[@therightcar]

New Santa Fe will be a great thing. Can’t wait for it.

[@romeoguitar]

Can't wait for you to review it and put it against kia sorento and carnival . Thank you Matt in advance 😊

[@kmuinde]

I wonder how much it will cost after 5 years

[@therightcar]

*reaches for crystal ball*

[@philosophactory]

I think you’re confusing credentials with capability. Credentials eg off roading, are elements that have been tested and established. It’s too new to have “credentials”. We are now seeing tank 300’s with 20-30k on them and stuff is starting to break….big expensive stuff like CV’s, diffs, transfer cases, control arm ball joints etc.

[@zimuli3549]

In China, these tanks have been widely used for many years in the Xizang Plateau, the roof of the world, and in the deserts of Xinjiang, Inner Mongolia. The quality is absolutely reliable!

[@zakootajin]

Would you buy it with your money, Matt?

[@therightcar]

If I needed something like that, and needed to go off-road and needed lots of seats but couldn’t afford a Patrol Warrior… yep.

[@zakootajin]

Lastly, is the floaty handling really bad? If you had to compare the handling to another known car, which one would it be?

[@fyks6447]

I think GWM should not compete model to model against Toyota or other brands with the similar cars. They should bring in a model which the competitors don't have or not as great such as a more powerful Suzuki Jimny-ish model or smaller Prado version!!

[@nkosicollier4984]

Alot of room in tht 2nd row to play wit my 🏀⚽️ 😂😂😂

[@therightcar]

Okay.

[@kennethprocak5176]

All the Chinese car bashing, do you realise how many established European brands vehicals are built in China and sold here already? And not mg or Volvo, polestar. They’re Chinese owned anyway.

[@TWENTYB]

I have been keen on this ariving for about 12 months now and it has not disappointed..... but The fuel economy is not what i was expecting. I wanted to see around 6L /100 and most reviews are double that.

[@ronaldov09]

Reviews are always on the high side. I reckion for most it will sit around 10L, and with only 91oct required that's good with me.

[@loum.4377]

In the same market this will totally crush Toyota and Ford, GM and Jeep/Ram.

[@Countspankulot]

If it drives as good as an Everest/Prado then there is no reason to buy them over this.

[@JB-mf5do]

Will the rug get pulled from under you?

[@luiginapolitano9589]

the alternatives are not in its price range

[@Bobtubeau]

73k??? Are you sure it wasnt in Yuan? I own a GWM but in this case i'd just buy an everest.

[@therightcar]

It's a lot for a GWM. But it's a lot of SUV for the money.

[@308_Negra_Arroyo_Lane]

This is basically a luxury vehicle, can you say that about the Everest?

[@art-is-lazy4509]

The 4cy will put alot of people off. If the fitted with their v6 turbo and hybrid, sold.

[@therightcar]

It is a shame the 6-cyl isn’t under consideration, but there’s about to be new legislation that will see other brands rethinking big engines too…

[@lime6862]

Here in the middle east we got the 6 cylinder 3.0L twin turbo option and we're getting the hybrid next year. So far in the two years the car has been sold here there's been little reported issues, mostly minor problems. I might look for a used one after a year or two if they keep up with that good rep!

[@craigzheng4889]

I really dont like the trend of bigger and bigger cars, we are doing nothing to help with the mother nature, 90% of families dont really need anything bigger than a corolla, yet it seems like everyone is one upping each other with these huge cars.

[@jinsei1202]

Great review. Not a fan of Chinese cars, but have to admit Gwm deserves some credit. Their cars do not seem to have the quality concerns commonly associated with the Chinese. Established brands must be warned their overpriced practice will see more money go to this brand very quickly.

[@therightcar]

The perception of value and quality is definitely there.

[@madrx2]

GWM are built nearly as well as Holden Captivas.

[@shrinidhvyas6094]

Old Hyundai Santa Fe is equal size despite this being 5 metres long

[@tonymillar5342]

You can't take a Santa Fe off road like this, and a Santa Fe won't tow 3000 KG!

[@shrinidhvyas6094]

@@tonymillar5342 agreed, only in terms of urban driving

[@akuyangbenar5897]

A Santa Fe is definitely way shorter than 5 m,

[@shrinidhvyas6094]

@@akuyangbenar5897 yes it is shorter, 4785 mm however interior space esp the boot looks exactly the same

[@tonymillar5342]

@@shrinidhvyas6094 You don't buy this vehicle if you're only urban driving !

[@josephpaul4765]

All well and good to spend less to get more, but how much do you think this will be worth in 3-5 years. You know the answer. Maybe wait another 10 years till Chinese cars are actually worth buying. Look at Kia and Hyundai. Now you wouldn't think twice about buying one because their quality and re-sale value is great. I'll take a second hand Toyota any day thanks.

[@CodeMeat]

The fuel economy is bad, I would prefer the PHEV model, and the front grill look is ugly, if they export the Tank550 body kit, I will def buy it but now, it is just meh.

[@nkzag555]

If the price range under $50000 is reasonable.$70000 is optioned out in market definatly.

[@therightcar]

I think you’re dreaming if you reckon you can get a hybrid off-road seven seat SUV with this much equipment for $50k, chief.

[@nkzag555]

@@therightcar why do you believe Australian need hybrid for off-road? What make you think it's more reliable than Pajero?

[@redbrickize]

@@nkzag555 I think you might miss the point. How many prado owners do 4x4 anyway. People do off road mainly buy cheap 10 years old prado or LC, people still whinging how reliable of the 3L prado rather than the 2.8L. Any car maker has more smart brains than almost 99.99% of the population, and the scary thing is they know what the customers want. The point is this Tank 500 I think majority of the people buying this vehicle use it for daily transport for a large family, value of money/new tech/comfort/affordability etc. having a 4x4 is just for an selling point, anyone with a brain should know this SUV or any hybrid sub is not for serious off-road. In term of reliability it has 7 years warranty(it’s said),so why should people worry, people worries resale value, then buy something else. If I had enough money, then I’ll buy a GLS450. Piss off all other brand, even I’m driving a Lexus suv and it’s a useless shit.

[@nkzag555]

@@redbrickize Nobody trusts someone's words when he says driving Lexus but after a Haval. With $70000 range people can get a decent 7 seats Korean or Japanese SUV for daily driving if 4x4 just a bubble selling point. Anyway it's your money and your choice.

[@redbrickize]

@@nkzag555 Lexus isn’t a some luxury car anyway. It’s just another brand of Toyota with a better interior. They use the exactly same engine from Kluger, old tech. How interesting some people are quite judgemental and narrative too. You never know what other people’s life like, a psychiatrist I know, he drives a ranger instead of MB E class, it fits to his needs, he used the money he saved to travel overseas every year. People choose whatever they like, Japanese Korean Indian. Old new whatever. Other people might have totally different thought about cars to others.

[@asranvinsky8704]

Feel 74k is quite expensive for GWM, also bit surprised a few have compared this with Toyota , We all have seen 79 series from the 80s going strong after 400k and my work mate has a Prado from the 90s , done over 300k with towing a caravan around Australia, still going absolutely strong... unless this kind of reliability is proven in GWM , comparing with Toyota is pointless .

[@liuyangyang]

I think it is a shame to see the petrol/diesel car are used for so many years. The car makers are so lazy to improve their products.

[@ronaldov09]

How much is a 300 series Sahara? Nearly double.

[@rambleon3698]

How many people are travelling around Australia.

[@charlessas4138]

Was thinking of buying Tank 500 or the new GWM ute coming with V6 3.0L but won't even go to look at one if only hybrid available. Too underpowered with tiny 2.0L and not great towing capacity. For a vehicle this size a 2.0 litre just doesn't cut it. Better off paying more for a Ranger with much bigger engine, considerably more power and 3.5T towing capacity. Or even the new Triton with much more power and also 3.5T towing capacity for not that much more and you are buying vehicle with great reputation and re-sale value.

[@charlessas4138]

@@wcrash9361Towing capacity is not up to industry standard and competition. You also need to consider GVM, payload etc. Landcruiser 300 series 3.5T, Patrol 3.5T, Ranger 3.5T, New Triton 3.5 T, Hilux 3.5T, D-Max 3.5T. Tank 500 only 3.0T which 500kg BELOW all the other vehicles I mentioned. That is a MASSIVE difference.

[@charlessas4138]

@@wcrash9361 unfortunately tank 500 is only hybrid for Australia. I'm waiting to see if new Canon (Shanghai) that will be released in Australia soon will have 3.5 Tonne towing capacity and if they bring the V6 3.0L engine. Then I will certainly be interested. If hybrid then I won't even consider. Need very reliable vehicle to Ultimately travel around Australia towing a caravan. Hybrid reliability is still questionable. Only very new technology and won't risk it with hybrid.

[@kevingozda2366]

Toyota any day