The GWM Tank 300 2.4-litre turbocharged 4×4 offers a budget-conscious alternative to traditional luxury off-roaders like the Jeep Wrangler and Toyota Land Cruiser Prado, according to motoring evaluations. Priced significantly lower at around R700 000 compared to competitors exceeding R1.3 million, the Chinese-built 4×4 delivers 135kW of power and 480Nm of torque while punching above its weight in capability and cabin comfort.
GWM Tank 300 Competes with High-End Off-Roaders at Half the Price
Motoring evaluations place the GWM Tank 300 directly against established heavyweights in the 4×4 market. While traditional choices like the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado and Jeep Wrangler command price tags well above R1.3 million, the diesel-powered Tank 300 enters the market near R700 000. Reviewers note that buyers are far more likely to take the lower-priced Chinese import on rugged excursions through terrain like Botswana than risk damaging an ultra-expensive alternative.
The vehicle features a boxy, solid exterior design that avoids looking clunky, paired with a dashboard that integrates digital functionality into an analogue layout. Drivers gain access to 135kW of power and 480Nm of torque from the 2.4-litre turbocharged diesel engine, managed by a responsive nine-speed electronic transmission.
On-Road Handling and Highway Comfort
Testing the vehicle over mountain passes, such as the Dutoitskloof route near Paarl, demonstrates steady road-holding capabilities, according to road tests. The nine-speed transmission delivers smooth power delivery when drivers accelerate to pass slow-moving trucks on steep inclines. On standard freeways, the vehicle provides a luxury sedan experience equipped with Nappa leather seats, climate control, speed control, and mobile phone connectivity.
Fuel efficiency figures differ slightly between manufacturer claims and real-world driving. While GWM advertises a fuel consumption rate of 7.7 litres per 100km, combined on-road and off-road testing yielded an average of 9.1 litres per 100km.
Pro Tip: When tackling rough terrain, engage low-range mode to unlock the vehicle’s full off-road potential, even before activating the electronic diff locks for the front and rear axles.
Off-Road Performance and Rigid Chassis Capabilities
Away from paved surfaces, the vehicle’s rigid chassis compensates for a standard ground clearance of 224mm. Reviewers observe that the stiff frame allows the vehicle to maintain stability even when all four wheels are not touching the ground simultaneously during complex obstacle navigation. Electronically activated differential locks independently transfer full engine power to all four wheels when traction demands it.
Did You Know? The marketing campaign for the GWM Tank 300 utilizes the tagline “go with more,” playing creatively on the manufacturer’s acronym (Great Wall Motors) through a series of televised adventure spots.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the engine specification of the GWM Tank 300 diesel?
The turbocharged diesel model produces 135kW of power and 480Nm of torque.
How does the price compare to direct competitors?
The GWM Tank 300 is priced around R700 000, making it significantly more affordable than direct competitors like the Jeep Wrangler and Toyota Land Cruiser Prado, which cost upwards of R1.3 million.
What is the fuel consumption of the Tank 300?
While the manufacturer claims 7.7 litres per 100km, combined testing yields approximately 9.1 litres per 100km.
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