GWM has introduced the Tank 500 Vanta 3.0D, a new addition to its large SUV range featuring an all-new 3.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine. The model delivers more torque, improved towing capability, and a longer touring range, with a starting price of $71,990 drive-away, $6,000 above the entry-level Tank 500 Lux at $65,990 d/a. The Vanta offers additional comfort, convenience, and styling features, positioning itself as a more luxurious alternative in the large diesel SUV segment.
The new engine produces 170 kW of power and 620 Nm of torque, available between 1,400 and 2,400 rpm, and is paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission and a part-time four-wheel-drive system featuring low-range gearing. Despite its 2,705 kg kerb weight, the Tank 500 diesel achieves a claimed combined-cycle fuel consumption of 7.1 litres per 100 km, attributed to improvements in combustion efficiency, cooling, and thermal management. The engine also incorporates shorter intake piping to reduce turbo lag and a latest-generation Bosch common-rail injection system for precise fuel delivery.
Engine and Towing Capability
The diesel’s maximum braked towing capacity increases to 3,500 kg, supported by an integrated trailer brake controller, a dedicated towing drive mode, and transmission calibration for heavy loads. The Vanta also gains a substantially larger 131-litre fuel tank, up from the Lux’s 78 litres, providing a theoretical touring range of more than 1,800 km based on the official combined-cycle consumption figure. Actual range will vary depending on load, terrain, and towing conditions.
GWM conducted an extensive Australian engineering and validation program for the new powertrain, led by Rob Trubiani, focusing on engine and transmission calibration, ride and handling, towing performance, and software refinement. Testing included real-world conditions in the Flinders Ranges, Victoria’s High Country, and the Big Desert.
The Tank 500 retains its body-on-frame construction, featuring double-wishbone independent front suspension and a multi-link live rear axle. For off-road capability, it includes front and rear differential locks, an all-terrain driving mode selector, crawl control, and Tank Turn Assist. Key off-road metrics include 220 mm ground clearance, an 800 mm wading depth, a 28.5-degree approach angle, and 25-degree departure and break-over angles. Unlike some competitors, the Tank 500 does not require AdBlue, eliminating the need for a separate diesel exhaust fluid tank.
Features and Interior
Visually, the Vanta distinguishes itself with a black front grille, black roof rails, and 19-inch black alloy wheels, compared to the Lux’s 18-inch two-tone wheels. Additional exterior features include electronic retractable side steps, a soft-close tailgate, and a panoramic sunroof.
Inside, the Vanta introduces Nappa leather-accented upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats with massage and memory functions, a heated steering wheel, and ventilated second-row seating. Further upgrades include electrically folding third-row seats, second-row window shades, 64-colour ambient lighting, a 50W wireless phone charger, a head-up display, and an auto-dimming rear-view mirror.
The seven-seat cabin offers 98 litres of luggage capacity with all rows in use, expanding to 795 litres in five-seat mode and 1,489 litres with the second and third rows folded. Technology is enhanced with GWM’s Coffee OS operating system and a 14.6-inch high-resolution central touchscreen, replacing the previous 12.3-inch display. The system supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, over-the-air software updates, and connected-vehicle functionality via the GWM smartphone app. A 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster is standard, while the audio system upgrades to a 12-speaker arrangement with active noise cancellation.
Safety equipment includes seven airbags, autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assistance, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert with braking, traffic sign recognition, and driver fatigue monitoring.
During testing, the Tank 500 Vanta demonstrated its off-road and towing capabilities, with features like three differential locks, crawl control, and low-range gearing proving effective. The 131-litre fuel tank and long-range potential translate into practical touring endurance, and the absence of an AdBlue requirement further enhances its appeal. The model competes in a segment where it offers strong value, combining towing capacity, off-road ability, and luxury features at a competitive price point.
