GWM’s Tank 500 to undercut Toyota Prado

The 2022 Tank 500 was shown at the Guangzhou auto show in recent days, as the all-new model prepares to launch in its native China.

Following the Tank 500’s unveiling at the Chengdu motor show in August, the GWM sub-brand has finally announced pricing – which appears to be designed to undercut the Toyota LandCruiser Prado.

The Tank 500 has been priced from between ¥335,000 (AU$72,600) and ¥395,000 (AU$85,000) – between 22 to 30 per cent cheaper than the Prado when it was on sale in China – but roughly on par with the Prado’s local pricing of between $59,840 and $87,807 before on-road costs.

While the four-cylinder Prado does have a lower starting price, it's the range-topping variants that most closely resemble the specification found on the Tank.

The newcomer might not have the off-road heritage of the Prado, but the new model could put forward a compelling argument to families needing a large SUV, as it is actually closer in dimensions to the new V6-powered Toyota LandCruiser 300 Series.

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Powered by a 3.0-litre turbocharged V6 engine producing 260kW and 500Nm, the Tank uses a nine-speed automatic transmission and a part-time, low-range four-wheel-drive system with optional front and rear locking differentials. The driver has access to 11 terrain modes to aid traction in different environments.

Inside, occupants are greeted with a 14.6-inch infotainment screen, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, leather, faux wood panelling, and a premium audio system.

GWM Haval is understood to be evaluating the Tank line-up for the Australian market, but if the 500 does make it to local showrooms, the model could offer LandCruiser 300 Series levels of comfort and technology, for less than the price of a Prado.