Great Wall Tank 500: this is the Chinese SUV that is arriving in the European market to dominate it

Major Chinese brands are arriving in the European market, and we are finding more and more models in our country’s markets. One of those arriving shortly is the Great Wall Tank 500, a model that aims to position itself against the large SUVs from European brands and carve out a place among them. In this case, and unlike other Chinese brands, it is not an electric model, but it will offer a plug-in hybrid version that is quite interesting.

The Great Wall Tank 500 was presented in China in August 2021 and represents the top model of its entire range. The refinement of its finish and its performance make it an interesting car positioned at the upper end of the segment. It not only has off-road capabilities, but also offers a fairly impressive level of finish and a look that aims to project a luxurious image.

A considerable size for a Chinese SUV

This SUV offers a considerable size, as it reaches 5.07 metres. Its width is 1.93 metres, which comes fairly close to the size of similar vehicles, such as the Mercedes GLS, the BMW X7 and others. It is based on a ladder-frame chassis, which is quite common in off-roaders. The wheelbase is 2.85 metres and it comes in two versions, one with five seats and another with seven.

Inside we find a 12.6-inch instrument cluster and another, for the infotainment system, of 14.6 inches. Among the materials found in the interior, wood, metallic finishes and other details stand out, highlighting the premium character of the model.

Two engine versions

The Great Wall Tank 500 will be available with two engines. One of them will be a 3.0-litre twin-turbo V6 engine, which delivers 354 CV of power and a maximum torque of 500 Nm. It has a 48-volt Mild-Hybrid system and a nine-speed automatic gearbox, which transmits torque to both axles, giving it all-wheel drive. This allows it to accelerate from 0 to 100 km in 7.3 seconds. Its consumption is 10.7 litres per 100 km, according to the Chinese CLTC cycle.

In addition, there is a plug-in hybrid version that uses a 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine. This is paired with an electric motor, achieving a total output of 408 CV and a maximum torque of 750 Nm. It has a 37.1 kWh battery which, according to the CLTC homologation cycle, allows it to cover 100 kilometres in electric mode.

Its off-road capabilities are backed by four-wheel drive, front and rear locking differentials, cruise control for trails and other features that allow it to move over quite demanding terrain. This makes it more than a simple SUV, while maintaining the level of comfort of one of them.

There is no set date for this model’s arrival in Europe, but it is expected to be announced shortly and to be available in several European countries within a few months. Will we be able to see it soon?