GWM Tank 500 HEV Ultra: A new challenger in the off-Road SUV segment – First Drive
Who would have thought that the off-road segment previously dominated by Japanese brands, is now being penetrated by the latest model from a Chinese manufacturer?
However, unlike typical off-road SUVs that come with diesel engines, the manufacturer from the mainland focuses on hybrid and plug-in hybrid engines.
The advantages? Smaller displacement engines that contribute to lower road taxes, and significantly more power and capability for tackling difficult terrains.
One of the manufacturers offering modern off-road solutions is GWM, through its full-size SUV, the Tank 500 HEV.
So, if you’re starting to feel bored with Japanese-made models, why not give the Tank 500 off-road SUV a try, which is now officially available in Malaysia?
Recently, we were invited by GWM Malaysia to test drive this luxury hybrid SUV from Bandar Elmina to Penang, and here are our initial impressions of the Tank 500 HEV:
Imposing Dimensions
On the road, the Tank 500 HEV resembles a group of foreign delegates visiting Malaysia, especially when driven in a convoy.
Unlike the Tank 300, which has a retro SUV appearance, the Tank 500 presents a more modern and sleek image with a body design free of extraneous lines.
When compared to its competitor (what else but the Land Cruiser?), the Tank 500 is slightly smaller in dimensions.
However, it still measures over five meters in length, thanks to the full-size spare tire compartment at the rear.
The rear door design is also non-typical for SUVs on the market, featuring side hinges with a soft close function.
The writer had no trouble acclimating to the aesthetics of this SUV, though it would be more visually appealing if most of the chrome elements were toned down.
Cabin Space with Old-School Elements
Frankly speaking, the writer is not a fan of dashboard layouts that prioritize cramming all functions into a display screen.
So, upon entering the Tank 500’s cabin, I was relieved to find that most functions can still be operated with physical buttons.
In addition to the air conditioning control buttons, there are also essential function buttons located on the center console, complete with a large gear knob.
In front of the driver, there’s a 12.3-inch display screen and a head-up display, while the center screen measures 14.6 inches with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality.
The front seats are wrapped in Nappa leather and come equipped with various comfort features (ventilation, massage, electronic adjustments).
To enhance the acoustic experience, the Tank 500 is equipped with an Infinity audio system featuring 12 speakers for perfectly tuned music.
Comfort in exiting the cabin is aided by side steps that automatically extend when the door is opened.
Passenger comfort is further enhanced by a three-zone automatic air conditioning system. Rear passengers enjoy a separate control panel along with four air vents to ensure cool air reaches them effectively.
One of my favorite features? The analog clock beneath the infotainment screen. It’s a small touch that elevates the cabin atmosphere, making it feel like a more premium vehicle.
The wood finishes in several areas contribute to a more luxurious experience for an SUV priced below RM400,000.
Passenger Experience
One aspect that enhances comfort during the journey in the Tank 500 is the NVH (noise, vibration, and harshness) level, which is commendable for a ladder-frame SUV.
At moderately high cruising speeds, we found the cabin to be relatively quiet.
External wind noise is minimal, and there is less noise coming from the wheel arches.
As a passenger, I found that the Tank 500 offers ample head and legroom without making occupants feel cramped.
What about the third-row seating? I believe it is more suitable for children, or you can fold it down to access the 795-liter cargo space, which expands to 1,498 liters when the second-row seats are also folded down.
Smooth and Powerful Driving Experience, but…
As I took hold of the steering wheel, a few aspects challenged my initial perceptions.
First, the Tank 500 HEV is indeed stable and comfortable, even when driven at speeds exceeding the national limit on the highway.
Second, body control is predictable, despite the absence of sophisticated suspension.
Third, although this SUV is heavy, it does not feel sluggish.
The Tank 500 comes standard with a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four hybrid engine (HEV).
On paper, the Tank 500 produces 346 PS and 648 Nm of torque, with power delivered to a four-wheel drive (4WD) system via a nine-speed hybrid automatic transmission (9HAT).
However, there is one important thing to note.
Unlike the HEV system in the Haval H6, which is designed for fuel efficiency, the hybrid setup in the Tank 500 acts more as a power enhancer to ensure this 2.5-ton vehicle moves smoothly.
There is no issue in getting moving from a standstill, but the Tank 500 feels somewhat lacking in power when I want that extra push to overtake heavy vehicles ahead.
Interestingly, that extra power tends to appear at the wrong moments—when the SUV is cruising serenely at speeds above the national limit.
I was not alone in noticing this; several other media colleagues shared similar sentiments.
It is not a major issue, but I would prefer if that additional power assistance kicked in at the right time.
On average, with a mixed driving pattern on the highway, we managed to record a fuel consumption rate of around 11.5 liters per 100 km.
Regarding handling, there are areas for improvement.
One is the steering response, and the second is the braking system, which at times makes it difficult for me to gauge the required braking biting point.
The Tank 500 HEV comes standard with a double-wishbone suspension in the front and a multi-link setup at the rear, without any sophisticated electronic adjustments.
Even with conventional settings, the suspension has been well-tuned for comfort and confidence over various road surfaces.
However, at times, the characteristics of a ladder-frame SUV are still noticeable, especially at lower speeds. This is something difficult to avoid, particularly for an SUV with this type of construction.
Hybrid SUV Ready for Off-Road Driving
Despite its various luxurious features, GWM does not shy away from equipping this SUV with multiple useful features and functionalities for off-road terrains.
These features include a low-range gearbox, three differential locks (front, center, and rear), tank-turn functionality, and off-road cruise control.
It is also capable of wading through water up to 800 mm deep. Perhaps one day we will share our off-road driving experience in the Tank 500.
Safety Features
Additionally, the Tank 500 is equipped with a host of advanced safety features, such as automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control (ACC), lane-keeping assistance, lane departure warning, traffic crossing warning, blind spot monitoring, and automatic parking systems.
There are also six airbags and two ISOFIX anchors for child seats.
The most useful feature for this full-size SUV is undoubtedly the 360-degree surround-view camera system, complete with a bonnet transparency function.
Conclusion
The GWM Tank 500 could be an alternative for those looking to stand out from the existing market options.
Based on our brief two-day drive, it is challenging to fully explore the potential of this SUV.
However, with its specifications and comprehensive manufacturer warranty, along with a selling price below RM350,000, the GWM Tank 500 is capable of delivering an experience you wouldn’t expect from a Chinese manufacturer in the past.
This is not a substandard product to scoff at. It is a GWM Tank 500.
Specifications for GWM Tank 500 HEV (RM328,000)
Engine: 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four (244 PS/380 Nm)
Electric Motor: 106 PS/268 Nm
Total Power: 346 PS/648 Nm
Transmission: Nine-speed automatic
Drivetrain: Four-wheel drive
Battery Pack: Lithium-ion, 1.67 kWh
Dimensions: 5,078 mm x 1,934 mm x 1,905 mm
Wheelbase: 2,850 mm
Ground Clearance: 224 mm
Suspension: Front double-wishbone / rear multi-link
