Ashly DhaniChinesecarmakers are making serious inroads in the South African market. The most prominent brands are Chery and Haval, with the latter being a sub-brand of GWM.
The relative newcomer to the fold has just introduced a new model called the Tank 500. And judging by the R1 222 900 price tag, we’d say the brand is aiming high.
The Tank 500 is a large SUV that is about the size of the largest similar offerings from Toyota and Nissan. The Tank 500 offers seating for seven in the cabin.
GWM’s press material proudly claims that this newest addition to the GWM line-up epitomises luxury, innovation and exceptional build quality. Fittingly, the Tank 500 is the flagship model of the local line-up.
A massive, 14,6 inch multimedia touchscreen interface dominates the facia. It is connected to an Infinity audio system.
The seats are Nappa-leather accented and feature heating and ventilation for both front passengers. In addition there is an eight-point massage feature. Both seats have electronic adjustment.
Second-row passengers have reclining seat backs, two-way adjustable headrests, separate climate control, seat cooling, and charging points.
A 2,0-litre turbocharged petrol engine powers the Tank 500. In addition the ICE has an electrical component that lifts power to 255kW. The hybrid powerplant has 648Nm of torque. A nine-speed automatic transmissions sends power to all four wheels. There are 11 all terrain driving modes, these include Sports, Snow, Sand, Rock, and Expert.
This new model takes Chinese automakers into new territory in the local context. But will the public react to such a price? Time, and the sales charts will tell. — IOL Motoring
Bongani Ndlovu