This boxy GWM off-roader now packs 346 electrified PS and some app-connected convenience.
While the Denza B8 may have been the electrified boxy off-roader dominating everyone’s news feed these past few days, it should be noted too that it wasn’t the only hybrid 4×4 to make its local debut. Such is as GWM Malaysia has also (rather quietly) announced that its Tank 300 has since gained a HEV variant, with it currently retailing for RM 259,800.
Complementing the existing ICE-only 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder in the lineup, this new electrified variant essentially pairs an electric motor with a slightly uprated version of that very engine. Working alongside a 1.67-kWh ternary lithium battery and a nine-speed hybrid automatic transmission, the self-charging hybrid setup delivers a combined 346 PS and 648 Nm of torque, enabling the Tank 300 HEV to sprint from 0-100 km/h in 8.1 seconds before topping out at 180 km/h.
As for off-roading meanwhile, this hybrid SUV retains much of the same rugged capability as its non-hybrid counterpart. The HEV comes with seven selectable drive modes — Normal, Eco, Sport, Snow, Mud, Sand, and 4L — though notably missing the ICE model’s dedicated 2H and 4H settings. It nevertheless still packs the usual Chinese off-roader party pieces such as tank turn assist and crawl control, while approach, breakover, and departure angles remain unchanged from the ICE-only spec at 33º, 23º, and 34º respectively.
Visually, the Tank 300 HEV remains largely identical to its non-hybrid sibling, though there are a few subtle distinguishing touches. Chief among these are the smaller 17-inch blacked-out alloy wheels wrapped in all-terrain tyres, replacing the 18-inch dual-tone rollers found on the ICE-only variant. The distinctive orange exterior hue available on the petrol-powered model has also since been swapped out here for a more earthy beige finish exclusive to the HEV.
Inside meanwhile, the HEV gains wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity for its twin 12.3-inch displays, while the dual-zone climate control system now additionally incorporates an ioniser, N95 particulate filter, and air quality management system. Even more minor details have been improved too, including auto up/down and jam protection for all windows instead of just the driver’s side, as well as an additional customisable steering wheel shortcut button.
The front seats have similarly been upgraded, now featuring memory and welcome functions on top of the existing ventilation and driver massage functionality. The HEV however does lose the ICE variant’s heated side mirrors, though these now gain a memory feature instead.
Perhaps the biggest advantage for the HEV though comes in the form of added tech, as the hybrid model gains fully automatic parking assist and smartphone app connectivity, allowing for remote vehicle monitoring and various control functions. Parking assistance is also incidentally enhanced through the addition of six sensors front and rear instead of four.
Curiously though, the HEV actually loses out on one safety airbag compared to the ICE model, as it omits the latter’s far-side airbag. That said, it still comes generously equipped elsewhere with Nappa leather upholstery and a 9-speaker Infinity sound system.
Finally, for ownership benefits, the Tank 300 HEV comes with a lifetime engine and transmission warranty for first-hand private owners, alongside an eight-year/180,000 km power battery warranty and a six-year unlimited mileage vehicle and hybrid system warranty. Buyers will additionally receive five years of free maintenance (inclusive of labour and parts), as well as five years of complimentary Level 2 vehicle telematics services. Existing GWM owners can also enjoy an additional RM3,000 rebate on the vehicle’s asking price.
Getting back to pricing for a moment too, the HEV commands a RM9,800 premium over the regular ICE-powered Tank 300. Interestingly enough, GWM does actually offer a diesel-powered Tank 300 elsewhere in the world, with the oil-burning variant currently even serving duty in Antarctica. Though considering current diesel fuel prices over here at the moment, the chances of Malaysia experiencing winter may honestly be higher than that diesel Tank ever officially making its way here.
