“Disrupt or be disrupted.” It’s a saying often thrown around, but few industries have felt its truth as keenly as the automotive world. Chinese brands are bringing their unique blend of innovation, heritage and craftsmanship to the global luxury landscape, and nowhere is this more evident than with Great Wall Motors’ (GWM) latest offering: the Tank 500. Making its grand entry into South Africa, this luxury sport utility vehicle (SUV) is more than just a new contender – it’s a statement of China’s ambition to elevate the luxury SUV game while embracing a distinctive identity.
I had the pleasure of test-driving the Tank 500 Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV) Ultra Luxury model for a week, thanks to GWM South Africa (GWM SA), and it’s safe to say this SUV aims to leave a lasting mark.
Claiming Its Territory
First impressions matter, and the Tank 500 HEV’s powerful silhouette and bold design make it clear which competitors it’s taking on: the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado, Ford Everest Platinum, and even the BMW X5 Plug-In Hybrid and Land Rover Defender 110. Every line and curve of the Tank 500 HEV tells a story of strength and elegance, declaring GWM’s intent to make its mark on the luxury SUV market.
A Satisfying Drive
Beneath the hood, the Tank 500 HEV combines a 2.0-litre Turbocharged petrol engine with hybrid technology, delivering an impressive 255kW of power and 648Nm of torque. It’s no ordinary SUV; with various all-terrain driving modes (like Sport, Sand, Rock, and Expert), it’s engineered to tackle everything from city streets to rugged landscapes. GWM’s hybrid strategy shines here, providing smooth acceleration, fuel efficiency and a dynamic and refined drive.
The Tank 500 HEV’s performance feels satisfying, particularly in Sport mode, hitting 100km/h in just 8.3 seconds. Its power belies its 2 605kg weight, and the capacity to tow up to 2.5 tonnes makes it a versatile powerhouse. While wind noise at higher speeds raised some questions, it’s a minor element in an otherwise impressive driving experience.
Luxury That Captivates
The Tank 500 HEV commands attention both inside and out. Finished in striking Crown Gold metallic paint with 20-inch multi-spoke wheels, it’s undeniably a luxury vehicle. Inside, the experience only deepens, with a 14.6-inch multimedia touchscreen anchoring the interior, surrounded by Nappa leather-accented seats with heating, ventilation, and an eight-point Massage feature. With adjustable seats offering memory settings and the second-row reclining for added comfort, every detail speaks to indulgence and relaxation – especially for those long-distance family road trips.
At night, the Tank 500 HEV’s interior transforms, with ambient lighting that syncs with your music, casting a warm glow over the dashboard and a star-lit panel that feels both luxurious and personal. The spacious layout offers up to 1 459 litres of luggage capacity (with the back row of seats folded flat), and the third-row seats fold with ease, underscoring the Tank 500 HEV’s thoughtful design.
Safety is also paramount, with a 360-degree camera, Auto Emergency Braking, and Lane Departure Warning that keep you aware and secure on the road. GWM has combined sophistication with practical features to create a driving experience that feels as safe as it is inspiring.
Redefining the Segment
The Tank 500 HEV doesn’t just aim to meet expectations; it aims to raise them. With its impressive power, refined interior and an array of standard premium features, this SUV has the potential to sway buyers eyeing competitors like the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado 2.8GD TX (R1 296 300) or Ford Everest Platinum (R1 278 000). Priced from R1 222 900, it’s a compelling alternative for those seeking premium quality without a luxury price tag. It also presents a compelling alternative for someone who may be aspiring to own the BMW X5 PHEV (R1 750 000) or Land Rover Defender 110 (R1 856 921) but remains budget-conscious.
The Tank 500 HEV includes GWM’s comprehensive ownership support, with a 7-year/200 000 km warranty, 8-year/150 000 km high-voltage battery warranty, 7-year unlimited km roadside assistance plan, and a 5-year/75 000 km service plan. This peace of mind, paired with a thoughtfully crafted SUV, makes it an enticing choice for discerning buyers.
A New Vision of Luxury
The arrival of the Tank 500 HEV in South Africa signals more than just another SUV on the road; it represents a new wave of accessible luxury crafted with intention and innovation. GWM is reshaping the luxury landscape, proving that excellence and value can coexist and that most Chinese brands are here not only to compete but to inspire. In the Tank 500 HEV, we see the future of luxury evolving – an SUV that combines bold design, satisfying performance and a dedication to quality that we hope will resonate across the globe.
