Chinese vehicles expanding their presence
Launching large Chinese SUV in the Australian market
Despite high prices, there’s no competition
Great Wall Motor (GWM), a Chinese manufacturer specializing in pickup trucks and SUVs, has recently attracted attention by introducing the 7-seater hybrid off-roader SUV Tank 500 in the Australian market and disclosing its price.
Although the starting price is AUD 66,490 (about $43,830), it is said that first place in the category is guaranteed for a while. Toyota’s Prado is in the same segment but will be launched in the Australian market later this year.
Powerful hybrid system
Equipped with off-road optimized specifications
The GWM Tank 500 is sold in Australia in two trims: Lux and Ultra. Both trims have a standard hybrid system based on a 2.0L 4-cylinder gasoline turbo engine. The total system output is 347 horsepower, and the maximum torque is 66.1kg.m, so there is no need to worry about its massive size. In the case of an automatic 9-speed transmission, power is transmitted through a full-time four-wheel drive system.
It is equipped with specifications optimized for off-road driving. The all-terrain traction control system provides 11 segmented drive modes. A rear differential lock and low gear are also provided as standard. The minimum ground clearance is generous at 224 mm (8.8 inches), and it has a 30-degree approach angle, a 22.5-degree ramp angle, and a 24-degree departure angle. It can also traverse depths of up to 800 mm ( 31.5 inches). In the case of the Clear Chassis function, the camera image shows the view underneath the vehicle without blind spots.
Generous standard convenience features
The lower trim doesn’t disappoint
As it is GWM’s flagship model, it is also rich in convenient features. LED headlamps, 18-inch alloy wheels, and privacy glass on the rear glass are provided as standard. The sunroof and side steps add a sense of openness and convenience for getting in and out, and first-row heated seats are also standard. In particular, the driver’s seat is equipped with an 8-way power adjustment function, including lumbar support.
A 12.3-inch digital cluster is paired with a 14.6-inch center display, and the infotainment system supports smartphone mirroring. Unfortunately, only Apple CarPlay can be used wirelessly, and Android Auto can only be wired. Semi-automatic parking assistance, a preferred feature of large SUVs, is also installed.
Reliable advanced safety features
All colors are paid except one
In addition, the upper trim, Ultra, is equipped with additional massage and ventilation functions for the first row of seats, and the existing 8-speaker audio system is upgraded to 12 speakers. An electric folding function is added to the third row of seats. Contrary to the prejudice against existing Chinese vehicles, the safety specifications are reliable. It has the latest ADAS (Advanced Driving Assistance System), including 7 airbag systems, adaptive cruise control, emergency braking system, and traffic sign recognition.
Four exterior colors for the Tank 500 are provided: Onyx Silver, Crystal Black, Dune Gold, and Marble White. Unfortunately, colors other than white marble cost an additional AUD 595 (about $392). The black leather interior is a single specification for the Lux trim, and for Ultra trim, customers can choose black and blue/cream Nappa leather interior.
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