In this 10-part series of the memorable road trip that was SUV Shootout 2024, we’ve already highlighted the six competitors and the route. From the third instalment, we started taking a closer look at how each of the former fared over the journey. Now it’s time to take a look at the GWM Tank 300…
The latest entry into the local ladder-frame SUV segment comes in the shape of the GWM Tank 300. But just how will the newcomer fare when having to trade punches with established rivals, such as the Toyota Fortuner and Ford Everest? Our road trip was the ideal opportunity to find out.
Related: SUV SHOOTOUT PART 2: THE ROUTE
In the company comprising six competitors, there’s much to say about the GWM Tank 300 — even more so about the flagship model tested on SUV Shootout. It’s not only the sole petrol-powered SUV in the line-up, it’s also the only model incorporating hybrid technology. Then there are its peak power and torque outputs…
Whereas the non-hybrid Tank 300’s 2.0-litre turbo-four churns out 162 kW, the unit sited below the range-topping variant’s box-shaped bonnet has been uprated to the tune of 180 kW. For comparison, this is already 26 kW more than its second-most powerful rival, the Ford Everest 2.0BiT 4×4 (154 kW). Torque remains the same as the standard Tank 300’s (380 N.m). However, with the addition of a 78 kW/268 N.m electric motor, these figures increase to 255 kW and 648 N.m, the latter of which available from 1 700 to 4 000 r/min.
However, with power comes increased fuel consumption. Although the Chinese marque claims an average figure of 8.4 L/100 km, on SUV Shootout, the Tank 300 HEV was the least-economical at the fuel pumps. Displayed on a crisp digital instrument cluster, the indicated readout was around the 15 L/100 km marker. With fuel stations few and far between several sections of the route, we opted take along a jerry can, filled to the brim with unleaded, for peace of mind. Fortunately, it didn’t become necessary.
The Tank 300 proved an impressive product. It fared commendably when travelling on asphalt at the national limit and felt sure-footed on gravel and over Ou Berg Pass. Overall comfort was only enhanced thanks to the Super Luxury grade’s range of standard features.
Related: SUV SHOOTOUT PART 1: MEET THE COMPETITORS
Fast facts
- Price: R851 950
- Engine: 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder, turbopetrol + electric motor
- Transmission: 9-speed AT
- Power: 255 kW @ 5 500 r/min
- Torque: 648 N.m @ 1 700-4 000 r/min
- Fuel consumption: 8.4 L/100 km
- Service plan: five years/75 000 km
- Warranty: seven years/200 000 km (eight years/150 000 km battery)