GWM South Africa has unveiled its latest additions to the local market, the upgraded P500 and TANK 500 SUVs, both equipped with a new diesel engine. The P500 and TANK 500, which were first introduced in 2024, have received significant updates, including a new 3.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder diesel engine, producing 170kW of power and 620Nm of torque. This new engine replaces the previous 2.4-liter turbo diesel engine.
According to Floyd Ramabulana, Head of Marketing at GWM South Africa, the company has sold over 47,800 vehicles since January 2025, with a market share of 5.1%. The introduction of the new diesel engine is expected to further boost sales. The P500 is available with a 2.4-liter turbo diesel engine and a 2.0-liter petrol hybrid engine, although the latter has been discontinued. Ramabulana hinted that a plug-in hybrid version may be introduced in the future if demand arises.
The new 3.0-liter turbo diesel engine offers improved performance, with a 35kW increase in power and 140Nm increase in torque compared to the previous 2.4-liter turbo diesel engine. The engine is paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission, providing smooth shifting. In terms of fuel efficiency, the TANK 500 2WD is expected to consume 6.8 liters per 100 kilometers, while the P500 and TANK 500 4WD versions are expected to consume 7.1 liters per 100 kilometers.
The TANK 500 and P500 feature a range of interior and exterior upgrades, including a 14.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Coffee OS 3, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The vehicles also come equipped with a digital instrument cluster, Head-up Display, and premium leather seats with heating and ventilation functions. Both models feature a sunroof and a range of safety features, including multiple airbags and electronic stability control.
In terms of design, the P500 and TANK 500 have undergone subtle changes, including a blackened grille, roof rails, and 18-inch alloy wheels. The TANK 500 features a ground clearance of 220mm and a wading depth of 700mm. The vehicles are built on the same platform as the previous models, offering improved stability and handling.
The P500 and TANK 500 are available in various trim levels, including Super Luxury and Ultra Luxury. The P500 D-Cab 3.0TD 9AT 4x2 Super Luxury is priced at R724,900, while the P500 D-Cab 3.0TD 9AT 4x4 Ultra Luxury costs R799,900. The TANK 500 3.0TD 9AT 4x2 Super Luxury is priced at R849,900, and the TANK 500 3.0TD 9AT 4x4 Ultra Luxury costs R929,900. The top-of-the-range TANK 500 3.0TD 9AT 4x4 Overland is priced at R999,900.
All GWM vehicles come with a seven-year/200,000km warranty, seven-year roadside assistance, and a seven-year/75,000km service plan. The introduction of the upgraded P500 and TANK 500 SUVs is expected to further strengthen GWM's position in the South African market.
Key points
- The new 3.0-liter turbo diesel engine offers improved performance and fuel efficiency.
- The P500 and TANK 500 feature a range of interior and exterior upgrades, including a 14.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system.
- The vehicles are available in various trim levels, with prices starting at R724,900.
