Powertrain
The GWM Tank 300 is available with several powertrain options in Australia, with the 2.4-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel being a key addition for the market. This diesel engine produces 135kW of power at 3600rpm and a substantial 480Nm of torque between 1500-2500rpm. This engine provides strong low-down torque, making it well-suited for both off-road crawling and relaxed on-road driving.
In addition to the diesel, GWM also offers a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine and a 2.0-litre petrol-electric hybrid. The turbo-petrol engine produces more power than the diesel but less torque, while the hybrid system offers the highest combined power output.
Transmission & Drivetrain
The GWM Tank 300 diesel model is equipped with a 9-speed automatic transmission that provides smooth and efficient gear changes. This transmission is paired with a part-time four-wheel-drive system. The driver can select between 2H (rear-wheel drive) for normal on-road driving, 4H (four-wheel drive high-range) for unsealed surfaces, and 4L (four-wheel drive low-range) for serious off-road conditions. The system is controlled via a rotary dial on the center console, allowing for easy engagement of the different drive modes.
Off-Road Capability
The GWM Tank 300 is a highly capable off-road vehicle, built on a traditional body-on-frame chassis. It boasts impressive off-road specifications, including a ground clearance of 224mm, an approach angle of 33 degrees, and a departure angle of 34 degrees. It also has a wading depth of 700mm.
The vehicle is equipped with a part-time four-wheel-drive system that includes high and low-range gears (2H, 4H, 4L). For enhanced traction on difficult terrain, the Tank 300 Ultra models come standard with electronically locking front and rear differentials, a feature typically found on more expensive off-roaders. The Lux model comes with a locking rear differential as standard. The driver can also select from a range of off-road driving modes to optimize the vehicle's performance for different conditions.
On-Road Comfort
The GWM Tank 300 delivers a comfortable on-road ride, particularly for a body-on-frame SUV. The suspension is tuned for softness, which helps to absorb bumps and road imperfections, though this can lead to some body roll in corners. The cabin is relatively quiet at city speeds, but a noticeable amount of wind noise is generated by its boxy shape at highway speeds.
The diesel engine is generally refined and provides relaxed cruising, though it can become vocal under heavy acceleration. The nine-speed automatic transmission is smooth and shifts intelligently to keep the engine in its optimal torque band. While the driver assistance systems have been improved for the Australian market, some features, like the adaptive cruise control and driver attention monitor, can still be overly sensitive or intrusive at times.
Interior & Practicality
The GWM Tank 300 provides a surprisingly luxurious and high-tech cabin for its price point. The interior features two 12.3-inch screens for the digital instrument cluster and infotainment system, which supports both wired and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Higher-spec Ultra models come with Nappa leather-trimmed seats, with the driver's seat offering heating, ventilation, and even a massage function. The cabin feels spacious, with ample room for both front and rear passengers.
Storage is adequate, with various nooks, a center console box, and door pockets. Cargo capacity is rated at 400 litres with the rear seats in place, expanding to 1635 litres when they are folded down. While not class-leading, the boot space is practical and square-shaped. The rear tailgate is a side-hinging unit, which can be cumbersome in tight parking spaces, and it holds the full-size spare wheel.
Value Proposition
The GWM Tank 300's primary selling point is its exceptional value proposition. In Australia, the diesel models are priced very competitively, with the Lux trim starting at $47,990 and the Ultra at $51,990 drive-away. This pricing positions the Tank 300 significantly below key rivals like the Jeep Wrangler, Toyota Prado, and Ford Everest, while offering a comparable or even higher level of standard equipment.
Even in the base Lux trim, the Tank 300 comes with a long list of features, including 17-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, a sunroof, dual 12.3-inch screens, wireless smartphone mirroring, and a comprehensive suite of safety features. The Ultra model adds luxury features like Nappa leather seats, heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and locking front and rear differentials. This combination of off-road capability, modern technology, and a low purchase price makes the Tank 300 a very compelling option for budget-conscious buyers in the 4x4 SUV market.
How It Compares to the Jimny
Compared to the Suzuki Jimny, the GWM Tank 300 is a significantly larger, more powerful, and more comfortable vehicle. The Tank 300 offers a more substantial road presence and a much more refined on-road driving experience, making it a more suitable choice for long-distance travel and daily driving. Its larger size translates to a more spacious interior for passengers and considerably more cargo space, making it a more practical option for families or those who need to carry more gear. The Tank 300's powertrain, particularly the diesel, offers substantially more torque, which is beneficial for both on-road acceleration and demanding off-road situations, as well as providing a much higher towing capacity.
The Suzuki Jimny, on the other hand, is a smaller, lighter, and more agile off-roader. Its compact dimensions give it an advantage on tight, narrow trails where the larger Tank 300 might struggle. While the Jimny is less powerful and not as comfortable on the highway, its simplicity, lower price point, and iconic status give it a unique appeal. The Jimny is a more focused, hardcore off-road machine, whereas the Tank 300 is a more well-rounded SUV that blends genuine off-road capability with a higher degree of on-road comfort and practicality, making it a more direct competitor to larger SUVs like the Jeep Wrangler or Toyota Prado.