GWM Tank 500 HEV First Look Review – A Luxury Off-Road SUV from China

The GWM Tank 500 aims to carve out a space in the premium off-road SUV market, positioning itself as a genuine alternative to established Japanese and American SUVs. 

A first look by PakWheels suggests the vehicle is more than just a budget option; it is a serious attempt to combine genuine off-road utility with high-end luxury.

Editor’s note:
This video was made when the GWM TANK 500 HEV was an imported model priced at Rs. 4.5 crore. It is now locally assembled at Rs. 2.05 crore with the same specs and features. The opinion and verdict apply to the Rs. 4.5 crore version.

Exterior Styling 

Visually, the Tank 500 demands attention. It adopts a boxy, upright silhouette that draws heavily on classic off-road design cues. The front end is dominated by a massive grille and modern headlamps, with chrome accents that add a premium touch. The profile is tall, with substantial wheel arches, leading to a rear end featuring a tailgate-mounted spare wheel—a clear nod to its rugged underpinnings.

Interior and Comfort 

Inside, the cabin moves away from the utilitarian feel often found in this segment. The interior focuses on material quality, utilizing soft-touch surfaces and leather upholstery to create an upscale environment.

The dashboard layout is clean and modern, anchored by a large central infotainment screen and a digital instrument cluster. Ideally suited for both daily commutes and long hauls, the cabin is designed to rival luxury SUVs in terms of comfort and ambience.

Capability and Performance 

Despite the plush interior, the hardware remains purpose-built for rough terrain. The Tank 500 features high ground clearance, a rigid body structure, and dedicated off-road driving technologies.

GWM appears to have struck a balance here, ensuring the vehicle can handle difficult trails without sacrificing on-road refinement and passenger comfort.

Market Positioning and Price

GWM is positioning the Tank 500 as a luxury off-road SUV rather than a budget offering. The overall design, interior quality, and feature set indicate that the brand is targeting buyers who want a premium experience along with strong road presence.

This approach shows how Chinese manufacturers are moving beyond affordability and focusing on quality, design, and advanced features to compete globally.

Editor’s note: Since the TANK 500 HEV is now being sold as a locally assembled model, its price is now Rs. 2.05 crore. Read our previous news for the price, booking details, and delivery time.

Verdict 

The GWM Tank 500 makes a convincing first impression. With its imposing road presence, refined interior, and clear off-road credentials, it offers a fresh option for full-size SUV buyers who want something distinct from the usual legacy models without compromising on luxury.