GWM Tank 300 Hybrid Review: We accidentally sank a Tank
With purposeful off-roader styling, a punchy hybrid powertrain, loads of standard features – and a highly competitive price tag, the GWM Tank 300 has a LOT going for it. The SUV also has the hardware for serious off-roading, which we put to the test.
Following the massive success in South Africa of the Haval brand, GWM SA has launched an entrant into the fiercely competitive Adventure SUV segment: the all-new GWM Tank 300.
The Toyota Fortuner has dominated the Adventure SUV segment (the Ford Everest and Isuzu MU-X are also compelling offerings), but although the Tank 300 is a 5-, not a 7-seat model, it has many strengths.
The asking price of the flagship Tank 300 in South Africa undercuts all of its rivals by some margin and, with handsome looks, a 255 kW/648 Nmpowertrain (a 2.0-litre 4-cylinder turbopetrol engine combined with an electric motor and battery), GWM have given it every chance of gaining notable market share.
In terms of interior features, the model comes with a 12.3-inch touchscreen, seamlessly paired with the driver’s TFT info cluster, a heated steering wheel, plush seats with massaging functions, a sunroof, a 9-speaker Harman Kardon audio system (complemented with wireless Apple Carplay and Android Auto).
At the rear GWM has installed a 220V plug point, a 12V power outlet and 60/40-split seats. All derivatives come with a 7-year warranty and a 5-year service plan, while the HEV has an 8-year battery warranty.
In this video, our guest presenter – and experienced Cars.co.za Consumer Awards judge – Jacob Moshokoa drives the 2.0T HEV Super Luxury 4×4 on-road and off-road but, unfortunately, the shoot ended rather prematurely when we accidentally sank the test unit in decidedly sticky and deep mud.
But the story doesn’t end there… Watch until the end for our comprehensive summary and verdict.
Find a new/used Tank 300 listed for sale on Cars.co.za
New GWM Tank 300 Specs & Prices in South Africa