The GWM Tank 500 makes a powerful statement as it becomes the first Chinese vehicle in South Africa to cross the million-rand threshold, and it does so with confidence and flair. With this SUV, GWM is clearly gunning for established luxury rivals, and while it doesn’t get everything right, it does enough to make the market take notice.
Styling & presence
Few manufacturers pull off chrome successfully, but GWM has nailed it. The Tank 500 wears its abundant brightwork like a tuxedo. Bold, proud, and unashamedly flashy. It’s an SUV that refuses to blend in. At over 5 metres long with 20-inch wheels and imposing road presence, it certainly lives up to its “Tank” moniker.
Interior comfort & tech
Inside, the Tank 500 feels every bit its price tag. Plush Nappa leather, ventilated and massaging front seats, a panoramic sunroof, a 14.6” touchscreen, and a 12-speaker Harman Infinity sound system all contribute to a genuinely luxurious cabin. You also get triple-zone climate control, ambient lighting, and a retro-inspired analog clock that adds a touch of personality.
It’s more than just comfy, it’s loaded. From wireless charging to active noise cancellation, it matches or exceeds the feature lists of much more expensive competitors.
Off-Road Credibility
Don’t let the luxury fool you, the Tank 500 has serious off-road chops. With electronically controlled front and rear diff locks, a two-speed transfer case, “Tank Turn” (to help it pivot in tight spaces), and an array of terrain modes, it’s clear this SUV was built with adventure in mind. A ground clearance of 224mm and a braked towing capacity of 2.5 tonnes round out its credentials.
Performance & efficiency
Under the hood, the Tank 500 pairs a 2.0-litre turbo petrol engine with a hybrid system, producing a punchy 255 kW and 648 Nm. It’s brisk for its size, 0–100 km/h in 8.3 seconds, but let’s talk fuel economy. GWM claims a combined figure of 8.5 L/100 km. In reality, we only managed a thirsty 14.9 L/100 km. That’s closer to V8 levels of consumption than hybrid frugality, and easily the SUV’s weakest point.
Value & verdict
Despite its fuel thirst, the GWM Tank 500 presents a compelling value proposition. You’d struggle to find another full-sized SUV this luxurious, this capable, and this tech-loaded for around R1 million. Yes, it’s a bold move for a Chinese brand, but it’s a bold car. GWM isn’t just knocking on the premium segment’s door, it’s kicking it down.
Pros:
- Luxurious, well-equipped interior
- Strong off-road capabilities
- Eye-catching styling and road presence
- Competitive pricing for its class
Cons:
- Disappointing real-world fuel economy
- Brand perception still catching up in the premium space
Final word
The GWM Tank 500 isn’t perfect, but it’s impressive. If you’re willing to overlook its thirst, you’re getting a truly luxurious and capable SUV at a price point that undercuts traditional rivals by hundreds of thousands. The GWM Tank 500 is priced at R1,228,950
