Australia’s off-road fans are about to get a whole lot more choice when GWM’s Tank 4x4 brand hits the market in 2023. GWM Tank has been confirmed for launch in Australia next year, alongside their Ora electric vehicle brand. In addition to the release announcement GWM has confirmed that both “fuel and hybrid” versions of the Tank series will be made available in its Australian line up. To begin with, the Tank range that is likely to be confirmed for release in next year, will be its 300 and 500 range of 4x4 SUVs.
The 300 is a medium SUV built on the same platform as the GWM Ute and uses a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine delivering 167kW/387Nm driving all four wheels. Full details of the Hybrid engine variant are yet to be announced and a diesel engine is also believed to be in the works however there’s no confirmation on its release as yet.
The larger, more luxurious 500 SUV will likely include both the 3.0-litre turbocharged V6 and the 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol-electric hybrid variants. The 500 will compete with the likes of the Toyota Prado, Isuzu MU-X, and Ford Everest as well as other off-road capable large SUVs. The Tank 500 is likely expected to fill the void left by the recently discontinued Haval H9 off-road vehicle.
Although it might be a while until we see them on Australian roads, Tank is also currently developing a wide range of mid-sized and large SUVs to suit a number of demands in the market. Two recent concepts that were shown off by the brand at the Shanghai motor show include the futuristically styled 400 series and its luxury flagship the Tank 800 whose concept features included a star-studded roof lining, privacy curtains, full-size reclining rear seats, integrated door umbrellas, passenger touch screens, custom cushions, a champagne bar, and automatic doors.
Although there's still a lot to figure out, no matter which Tanks start "rolling out" here in Australia in 2023, one thing we're certain of is that Aussie off-roading will never be quite the same again.
