“Diesel power. Oh, that is so much better.” That’s the sentiment that perfectly captures the arrival of the GWM Tank 300’s new diesel variant. For a while now, the Tank 300 has been this handsome, Tonka-tough-looking SUV that, while impressive, had a bit of a drinking problem. GWM’s hybrid offerings don’t quite solve the issue either, with drivers reporting real-world consumption figures around 10 to 12 L/100km. But now, GWM has listened to the market’s demands and delivered what many have been waiting for: a proper diesel. The question is, is this diesel variant the silver bullet the Tank 300 needed?
The Heart of the Matter
Under the boxy bonnet, you’ll find the main event: a 2.4-litre, 4-cylinder turbocharged diesel engine that feels like the perfect match for this chassis. It produces a healthy 135 kW and a very useful 480 Nm of torque, sent to the wheels via a 9-speed automatic transmission. The performance is described as impeccable; when you put your foot down, it goes, pulling with a determination that feels more than adequate for the vehicle’s size and purpose. It’s the kind of power that feels right at home in a rugged 4×4.
The Grin List: What’s Good?
- The Price Tag: GWM has cleverly positioned the diesel as the middle point of the Tank 300 range. At $57,990, it’s more affordable than its hybrid counterpart, meaning you arguably get the more desirable engine for less money.
- Proper Off-Road Chops: This is no “soft-roader.” The vehicle’s DNA is rooted in off-roading, and GWM hasn’t stripped away the important bits. The base model comes standard with a rear locking differential, and higher-spec versions add a front locker to the mix. With 2-high, 4-high, and 4-low ranges, plus a comprehensive and customisable 4×4 menu, it’s equipped for serious adventure.
- No-Nonsense Focus: The diesel models do away with the ‘Eco’ and ‘Sport’ drive modes found in the other versions. This is seen as a positive, simplifying the experience to focus on the vehicle’s core off-road purpose without unnecessary gimmicks.
- Generous Tech: Despite its entry price, the Tank 300 diesel retains key safety and convenience features. A crisp, 360-degree camera system, forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keep assist all come as part of the package.
The Niggle List: What’s Not?
The Tank 300 is good, but a couple of ergonomic quirks prevent it from being perfect.
- The Indicator From Another Dimension: The turn signal makes what is described as “the most annoying sound in the world.” Frustratingly, there seems to be no way to adjust the volume or change the sound.
- Hide-and-Seek Cruise Control: The cruise control stalk is completely blocked from view by the steering wheel. Unless you memorize its layout, you’ll be fumbling blindly to use it, which is far from ideal while driving – I guess yo get used to it if it’s yours.
- A Moment’s Hesitation: While the engine and 9-speed gearbox work well together, there is a slight flaw. When slowing down for a speed hump and then trying to accelerate, the transmission can have a moment of indecision, creating a noticeable delay as it chooses a gear.
On the move
Unfortunately, my time in the Tank was restricted to the tarmac, however, with the raft of ‘off-road’ tech, transparent body camera views and switchgear I assume it does all it says on the tin (maybe a follow up drive?). Regardless of this, on road, the Tank 300 is a beaut. It features the same powertrain as the Cannon ute I recently reviewed, but in this Jeepy-styled SUV it’s a chalk and cheese experience. The Tank’s ride is far more refined and dare I say it, fun.
The suspension handled Auckland’s often unkempt surfaces with glee and even in its understated grey finish (yes I would have preferred the orange), it’s a vehicle that turns heads. Steering is well weighted, visibility is good and cabin space is a solid carrier of 4 sizable folks. Sure, it’s not the most aerodynamic out there, and wind makes its presence known at motorway speeds, but seriously, who cares, turn up the Infinity stereo and enjoy the ride.
Despite a few frustrating interior quirks, the final recommendation is an enthusiastic “go and get it”. The addition of the 2.4L diesel engine elevates the GWM Tank 300 from a thirsty but charming alternative into a genuinely compelling and logical choice in the rugged SUV market. It finally has the efficient, torquey powertrain to match its tough looks and true off-road capability.
When you factor in the affordable price point, the impressive standard features, and GWM’s strong warranty, the package becomes very difficult to ignore. If you can live with the annoying indicator and the misplaced cruise control, you’ll be rewarded with the Tank 300 that probably should have existed from the very beginning.
