In a world dominated by brands like Toyota, Ford, and Jeep, when it comes to serious off-roaders, GWM (Great Wall Motors) is now stepping into the ring. After Jetour’s success, other Chinese brands followed up, including GWM. Meet the GWM Tank 500, an unapologetically bold, body-on-frame SUV that elegantly combines modern luxury with serious off-road muscle. It’s aimed squarely at the big dogs: Toyota Land Cruiser, Nissan Patrol, and even the Jeep Grand Cherokee.
This isn’t just another SUV trying to cash in on the adventure trend. The Tank 500 is engineered to be a proper 4×4, but with a plush, high-tech cabin and unmistakably imposing presence. It’s China’s most serious attempt yet at a luxury off-roader that actually off-roads.
Tank 500 – Design
The Tank 500 is unmistakable. It has that “big body, big presence” look nailed down. With a massive front grille, muscular fenders, high ground clearance, and a tall, upright stance, it instantly gives off Land Cruiser LC 200 vibes, and that’s of course not by accident.
Tank 500 gets full-LED lighting, a massive front fascia, prominent “TANK” badging, and chrome accents everywhere. 20-inch wheels fill the arches, and there’s a full-size spare mounted on the tailgate, which swings open side-hinged, just like a true off-roader should.
Tank 500 – Interior
Step inside and you’ll be surprised. GWM has gone all-in on luxury and tech. The cabin looks and feels premium, think quilted leather seats, contrast stitching, ambient lighting, wood trim, and a massive digital display layout that feels more like a German SUV than anything else.
There’s a gigantic 12.3-inch digital driver cluster, paired with an even bigger 14.6-inch infotainment screen in the centre. The system supports Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and comes with a premium audio system, wireless phone charging, and even a fragrance diffuser in higher trims. The Tank 500 also brings features like ventilated and massaging seats, panoramic sunroof, four-zone climate control, and even an electronic gear selector dial. The interior will make you think you’re in a Bentley rivalling SUV rather than a Bronco rivalling SUV.
Tank 500 – Powertrain
Under the hood of the top-spec Tank 500 is a 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged V6 mated to a 48V mild-hybrid system, producing a combined 349 horsepower and 500 NM of torque. That’s enough grunt to move this 2.5-ton beast with authority, both on the highway and off the roads.
Power is delivered through a 9-speed automatic transmission and a full-time four-wheel-drive system, complete with low-range gearing, a locking rear differential, and multiple terrain modes like Mud, Sand, Rock, and Snow. GWM didn’t skimp on the capability.
There are also hybrid versions that combine a 2.0-litre engine with an electric motor in lower variants of the Tank 500. This combination produces a massive 648 NM of torque.
Tank 500 – Pricing In The UAE
As of mid-2025, the Tank 500 starts at around AED 175,000, with higher trims (including the fully-loaded V6 Hybrid version) pushing up to AED 210,000–220,000, depending on options and dealership add-ons.
That makes it half the price of a comparably equipped Land Cruiser or Nissan Patrol, while offering more technology and arguably more luxury inside the cabin. For buyers who want full-size SUV presence, real off-road ability, and high-end features without paying G-Wagon money, the Tank 500 might be one of the smartest buys in the region right now.
Tank 500 – Verdict
The Tank 500 is a notable SUV from China that has made a dramatic entry to the Middle-Eastern market, especially in countries like the UAE, Qatar and Saudi Arabia. The Tank 500’s engine reliability cannot be confirmed as of now, only time will tell if it can withstand the heat of the Arabian deserts.
Rest assured, the vehicle otherwise has no mysteries or issues. Its a comfortable and capable off-roader with an incredibly luxurious cabin.
