Chinese automaker GWM has been a established brand in South Africa for nearly 20 years, selling vehicles in the country. The company has recently upgraded its 500 series, which includes the Tank 500 and P500 bakkie, with a new diesel engine option. The previous engine options, a 2.0-liter turbo petrol engine with a hybrid drivetrain and a 2.4-liter turbo diesel engine, have been replaced with a more powerful 3.0-liter turbo diesel engine.
The new 3.0-liter turbo diesel engine produces 170 kW and 620 Nm of torque, making it a significant upgrade over the previous diesel engine. The engine is paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission, providing smooth and efficient power delivery. According to GWM, the new engine and transmission combination offers improved performance and fuel efficiency.
The Tank 500 and P500 with the new diesel engine have been tested on the road, and the results are impressive. The vehicles feel more luxurious and refined, with improved ride quality and handling. The diesel engine provides plenty of torque, making it well-suited for towing and hauling heavy loads.
In terms of fuel efficiency, the GWM 500 with the new diesel engine has been tested to achieve 7.2 liters per 100 kilometers at a constant 120 km/h. When driven at higher speeds, around 130 km/h, the fuel consumption increases to 8.1 liters per 100 kilometers. These results suggest that the new diesel engine is not only more powerful but also more fuel-efficient.
While the GWM 500 with the new diesel engine is a significant improvement over its predecessors, it is not without its flaws. The ride quality on rough roads can be improved, and the vehicles could benefit from slightly lower tire pressure. However, these issues are minor and do not detract from the overall driving experience.
The GWM P500 and Tank 500 with the new diesel engine are priced competitively, with the P500 starting at R724,900 and the Tank 500 starting at R849,900. The vehicles offer a range of luxurious features, including premium interior trim and advanced safety features. With a towing capacity of 3.5 tons, the GWM 500 is well-suited for lifestyle applications.
Overall, the GWM 500 with the new diesel engine is a significant upgrade over its predecessors. The vehicle offers improved performance, fuel efficiency, and luxury features, making it a strong contender in its class. With its competitive pricing and impressive capabilities, the GWM 500 is sure to appeal to a wide range of buyers.
Key points
- The GWM 500's new 3.0-liter turbo diesel engine offers 170 kW and 620 Nm of torque.
- The vehicle has a towing capacity of 3.5 tons and is well-suited for lifestyle applications.
- The GWM 500 is priced competitively, with the P500 starting at R724,900 and the Tank 500 starting at R849,900.
