Peter Lyon
May 23, 2024
What looks like a Bronco wannabe is the GWM Tank 300. And its just opened for bookings in Malaysia for around RM250,000. The rugged, go anywhere SUV is expected to go on sale in July 2024, so its official launch in a fully imported (CBU) format is just around the corner.
In case you are not familiar with the GWM Tank 300, it is a mid-sized SUV that draws its design cues from vehicles such as the Jeep Wrangler and Ford Bronco. To further enhance its off-road-capable image, a spare tyre is even installed on the tailboard. Like a genuine SUV and pickup truck, it is likewise constructed on a ladder frame chassis.
A 2.0-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder petrol engine with 220 hp and 380 Nm propels the Tank 300 with its power being transferred to the tarmac and dirt via electronically controlled part-time four-wheel drive (4WD) system boasting an 8-speed ZF automatic gearbox.
As far as off-roading goes, the Tank 300 can traverse ramps with a maximum gradability of 70% and angles as high as 23.1°. It also features a 700 mm water-wading depth.
Employing round vent and squarish trimmings, the Tank 300’s dashboard is reminiscent of the Mercedes G-Wagon. No, actually, it’s more than that. Taking on a strong clone mentality, the dash is almost exactly the same as that of the G-Wagon. A dual-screen configuration, one for the instrument cluster and one for the head unit, is integrated into the dashboard.
The Tank 300 boasts a number of safety features, including an automated collision unlocking system, an automatic collision fuel cutoff system, a 360° all-around vision with transparent chassis function and a tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS).
A special package from GWM will be given to the first three hundred Tank 300 reservations. This package will include a lifetime powertrain warranty with unlimited mileage, exclusively for the first owner, a 5-year/100,000 km free service package inclusive of part and labour, whichever comes first, and a mystery gift that will be revealed at the official launch.
CARLIST THOUGHTS
This Tank certainly turns heads but not really for the right reasons. With an exterior incorporating strong Bronco design hints and an interior that mimics that styling and features of a G-Wagon, the Tank 300 unfortunately lacks inspiration of its own—even though it does seem very capable on and off-road and will land in Malaysia with a competitive price.
