The GWM Tank 500 HEV is set for a local launch next month, with a current estimated price tag of RM 350,000.
So a little while ago, Automacha had the chance to get up close and personal with the upcoming GWM Tank 500 HEV. And while a full review will come in due time once it properly lands in Malaysia, here are a few lesser-highlighted quirks and features that haven’t quite been shouted about by other outlets:
1. The overhead grab handles in the Tank 500 HEV come with a slightly padded, cloth-wrapped middle section. It’s a small touch, but one that subtly elevates the already plush and premium feel of its cabin.
2. Both front seats, as well as the two outer rear seats in the second row, are ventilated. Though perhaps even more interesting, especially for a fully-imported car from China, is that GWM Malaysia has somehow managed to option this SUV to arrive locally without heated seats (which is really unnecessary here in tropical Malaysia).
3. The folding and unfolding of the GWM Tank 500’s third-row seats are fully electric. Controls for these are found in the boot on the left side, but can also be accessed from the right rear footwell when you’re reaching in from the second row.
4. While the third row is motorised, the second row isn’t. And thanks to just how plush the second-row seats are, the resulting gap to clamber into the back isn’t exactly generous…
5. There are literal roof-mounted air-conditioning vents on the third row of the GWM Tank 500 HEV.
6. The Tank 500 HEV also comes fitted with motorised side steps, which pop out whenever a door is opened to make getting in and out of this tall SUV just a little bit easier.
7. Hidden within the centre cubby is a clever little tray that slides back and forth. It can sit inside the cubby itself or double as a shallow cover over the cupholders just ahead of it.
8. Much like what is found on its Tank 300 smaller sibling, the rear hydraulic rod on the bottom of the Tank 500 HEV’s swing-out tailgate has a twistable lock to hold it in its fully-open position.
9. There’s a proper 3-pin electrical outlet in the boot of the GWM Tank 500, with it supposedly rated for the proper 220 V/400W household electrical output.
The Tank 500 HEV is set to launch locally at the upcoming Malaysia Autoshow 2025, which is set to take place on the 9th-15th of May at MAEPS Serdang. The estimated launch price for this gigantic off-roader is currently touted to be RM 350,000, with pre-orders already open from early last week.
Under the hood of this massive SUV lies a self-charging hybrid powertrain consisting of a 2.0-litre turbocharged inline-four making 244 hp and 380 Nm, paired to a 106 hp and 268 Nm electric motor. Combined system output is rated at 346 PS and 648 Nm of torque, with all this grunt delivered to all wheels via a nine-speed automatic and accompanying part-time selectable four-wheel drive system.
