GWM P300 review: Powerful Contender in Bakkie Segment
The GWM P300 double cab isn’t just a refresh of the P-Series – it’s a completely refined, technologically advanced contender that signals GWM’s intent to disrupt the status quo in South Africa’s ultra-competitive new-bakkie market. We review it!
In this in-depth review, presenter David Taylor (and videographer Shaun Korsten) showcase the GWM P300 2.4TD double cab LT 4×4 to unpack its styling, unique features, and improved mechanical package.
See also: GWM P300 2.4TD (2025) Price & Specs
Expanded GWM P300 line-up: Price & Positioning
While the original GWM P-Series found favour for its sheer value, the new P300 has broadened its appeal with a comprehensive lineup that starts at a highly competitive price point.
GWM has structured the P300 range to offer compelling options for both budget-conscious buyers and those seeking maximum power and off-road capability.
The GWM P300 line-up is headed up by powerful 2.4-litre turbodiesel derivatives, of which the 2.4TD double cab LT 4×4 is the focus of this review. Meanwhile, the value-focused 2.0TD SX variants maintain a competitive entry point, powered by the proven 2.0-litre turbodiesel engine (120 kW and 400 Nm).
See also: GWM P300 2.0TD SX (2025) Price & Specs
Under the Bonnet: New Engine & Transmission
The 2.4-litre 4-cylinder turbodiesel engine delivers a substantial boost in comparison to the 2.0-litre unit used in the outgoing P-Series and SX variants, peaking at 135 kW and a strong 480 Nm of torque.
Crucially, the P300 also debuts GWM’s new proprietary 9-speed automatic transmission, replacing the previously sourced 8-speed unit. The resulting package feels noticeably more refined.
While there is still a characteristic diesel note under hard acceleration, the engine’s power delivery is more energetic, and the wider torque bands contribute to a far more relaxed driving experience.
See also: GWM P300 Payloads: How Much Can It Carry?
Real-World Economy
In a welcome demonstration of efficiency, the GWM P300 manages to return excellent fuel consumption figures. GWM claims a figure of 8.0 L/100 km for the 4×4 auto, and during the review, David managed to achieve an impressive 7.9 L/100 km, largely thanks to utilising the Eco drive mode.
This suggests that the slightly larger engine, when not having to work as hard as a smaller unit, can deliver surprising returns on the open road.
Capability, Towing, and Off-Road Readiness
One of the common weaknesses of the outgoing model was its tow rating. GWM has addressed this with the P300 – 4×4 versions of the 2.4TD have a 3.5-tonne (braked) towing capacity. This makes the more powerful GWM P300 a viable option for buyers needing to haul large caravans, horseboxes, or boats.
In terms of off-road prowess, the 4×4 derivative comes well-equipped for most scenarios, featuring 227 mm of ground clearance, a 25-degree departure angle, and a 27-degree approach angle, which compares favourably with segment rivals.
The 2.4TD double cab LT 4×4 operates with a permanent 4-wheel-drive system (4 High), delivering continuous stability and superior grip – especially critical in slippery conditions like mud or heavy rain. For genuine low-speed, high-torque challenges, a low-range transfer case is included as standard.
For the serious overlanding enthusiast, GWM offers the LTD derivative, which includes a host of factory-fitted accessories like off-road tyres, a snorkel, a winch, and an extra differential lock.
See also: GWM P300 Payloads: How Much Can It Carry?
Design and Smart Features
GWM has refined the P300’s styling, leaning towards a more neutral and unfussy aesthetic. At the front, much of the polarising chrome that adorned its predecessor has been replaced with subtle, neutral grey slats, giving the bakkie a more modern and less “blingy” look.
However, it is the P300’s unique convenience features that truly set it apart:
- Sunroof: The inclusion of an electric sunroof is a significant drawcard for South African buyers, a feature that remains rare in the double-cab segment.
- Clever Tailgate: The rear tailgate features a damped drop-down mechanism to ensure it doesn’t crash open. It incorporates a retractable step that pops out for easier, more dignified access to the load bay – a truly clever design touch that shows GWM has studied global bakkie usage habits.
Interior Comfort and Digital Connectivity
Meanwhile, the cabin of the GWM P300 confirms the massive strides Chinese manufacturers are making in terms of quality and technology. The interior feels well-put-together, solid, and tough, defying old (and largely outdated) perceptions of the cabin quality of Chinese-made vehicles.
Visually, the cabin is dominated by new screens: an updated digital instrument cluster and a completely redesigned central touchscreen infotainment system. The quality of these new screens is excellent – their displays are crisp, responsive, and boast good colour quality, making for a positive user experience.
Connectivity is a major highlight. The GWM P300 is packed with modern convenience features, such as:
- Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
- USB-C and USB-A ports
- Fast wireless charging pad
- A convenient, pre-wired USB port near the rearview mirror to power a dashcam
Furthermore, features like heated seats and pre-wired auxiliary switches (for hooking up accessories like winches or fridges) underscore the GWM P300‘s focus on upmarket, tech-enhanced user convenience.
The quality of the 360-degree camera system also deserves special mention for its high resolution, which greatly assists in parking the bakkie in tight spaces.
While the new screen-dominant design is clean, the integration of climate control functions into the touchscreen presents an ergonomic trade-off, requiring the driver to exit smartphone integration to adjust the temperature, David notes.
See also: Affordable Chinese double cab 4×4 alternatives to Hilux
How much does the GWM P300 cost in South Africa?
GWM has structured the P300 range to offer compelling options for both budget-conscious buyers (2.0TD SX) and those seeking maximum power and off-road capability (2.4TD).
| DERIVATIVE | PRICE |
|---|---|
| 2.0TD double cab SX manual | R446 950 |
| 2.0TD double cab SX auto | R489 950 |
| 2.0TD double cab SX 4×4 manual | R499 950 |
| 2.4TD double cab LS | R529 900 |
| 2.0TD double cab SX 4×4 auto | R537 950 |
| 2.4TD double cab LS 4×4 | R579 900 |
| 2.4TD double cab LT | R599 900 |
| 2.4TD double cab LT 4×4 | R649 900 |
| 2.4TD double cab LTD 4×4 | R699 900 |
Prices (correct in November 2025) include a comprehensive 7-year/200 000 km vehicle warranty and a 7-year/75 000 km service plan, establishing a strong ownership value proposition.
New GWM P300 Specs & Prices in South Africa
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Summary
The GWM P300 represents a significant leap forward in the double-cab bakkie segment. It offers a powerful, upgraded mechanical package (on the 2.4TD), an array of unique features like the sunroof and clever tailgate, high-quality cabin technology, as well as a comprehensive warranty and service plan.
It successfully addresses the perceived faults and quirks of its predecessor, establishing itself as a credible and formidable contender that all potential bakkie buyers should consider.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What are the main engine specifications of the GWM P300 2.4TD?
A: The 2.4-litre 4-cylinder turbodiesel engine delivers 135 kW and 480 Nm of torque. Crucially, it is paired with GWM’s new proprietary 9-speed automatic transmission.
Q: What is the maximum braked towing capacity of the GWM P300 2.4TD 4×4 models?
A: The 4×4 versions of the GWM P300 2.4TD have a strong 3.5-tonne (braked) towing capacity, making it a viable option for buyers needing to haul large caravans or boats.
Q: What unique convenience features does the GWM P300 offer?
A: The P300 stands out with features like an electric sunroof and a clever tailgate that has a damped drop-down mechanism and a retractable step for easier load bay access.
Q: What warranty and service plan are included with the GWM P300?
A: Prices include a comprehensive 7-year/200,000 km vehicle warranty and a 7-year/75,000 km service plan, establishing a strong ownership value proposition.