Here, it’s billed as value alternative to the Toyota Land Cruiser, but the GWM Tank 500 Diesel will be launched this month in Thailand to rival the Toyota Fortuner. To play in Thailand’s truck-based PPV SUV segment – which also includes the Isuzu MU-X, Mitsubishi Pajero Sport, Nissan Terra and Ford Everest – one needs a diesel engine, and the Tank 500 is now ready.
The oil burner behind that proud nose is a 2.4-litre turbodiesel with 184 hp and 480 Nm of torque from 1,500 to 2,500 rpm. The VGT engine – which accepts Thailand’s B20 biodiesel – is paired to a nine-speed torque converter automatic transmission, and buyers can choose from 2WD or AWD variants. This diesel powertrain was introduced in the Tank 300 in Thailand earlier this year.
Engine aside, the diesel model has its spare tyre mounted under the car, as opposed to on the tailgate. Thai media report a new suspension tune for the diesel, and improved comfort for the middle row seats thanks to extra foam. The Diesel 2WD is a new combo for Thailand, to match what the other PPVs offer.
Thais will be able to choose from three seven-seater variants – the Pro 2WD, Ultra 2WD Black Warrior and range-topping 4WD Black Warrior. As seen here, the Black Warrior removes every inch of chrome on the Tank 500’s exterior for gloss black trim – even the front logo is in black, with only the rear model markings left in chrome. Those who don’t want the villain look can have this big boy in white or grey.
Launched here in May, the Tank 500 HEV is priced at RM328,800 on-the-road without insurance. Imported CBU from Thailand, the hybrid is powered by a 244 PS/380 Nm 2.0-litre turbo-four, paired to a 106 PS/268 Nm electric motor and a nine-speed automatic transmission. Total output is 346 PS/648 Nm and there’s a switchable 4WD system.
With ladder frame construction, front and rear electronic locking diffs, a mechanical centre locker, off-road cruise control, a water depth detection function, 11 drive modes and tank turn, the Tank 500 is no soft-roader. But like today’s Land Cruiser, it has to function most of the time as a luxury vehicle, so there’s quilted Nappa, a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel, 14.6-inch touchscreen, power-folding (and unfolding) third-row seats and 12 Infinity speakers.
Would a big 4×4 like this be better with a diesel engine, or do you prefer the refinement of a petrol hybrid? Also, spare wheel on display or hidden away?
GALLERY: GWM Tank 500 HEV in Malaysia
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too expensive for what it is